Some places aren’t traditionally beautiful yet we’re still drawn to them – Toorak Cellars in Beatty Avenue, Armadale, Melbourne is one such place.
Moodily lit, full of rustic charm and friendly, knowledgeable staff, it’s the perfect place for a relaxed drink by the fire early in the week and it’s heaving with locals and robust conversation and laughs on the weekend.
For me, the magic is in the wood. The long, central bar at the front is crafted with smooth cypress and warm to the touch while the suspended halogen globes hang nonchalantly from the pressed tin roof and cast a surprisingly warm glow over the scene.
Complemented by matching, heavy cypress stools and a stunning wine collection from classic producers, patrons can select their preferred drop and enjoy it with a steak from the French bistro next door.
It’s the ideal way to enjoy a chilly Melbourne evening with friends or just sitting quietly and people watching.
For more details, see www.toorakcellars.com.au.