Austin's Restaurant at the Mt. Erica Hotel

Few Prahran venues have as much history and nostalgia attached to them as the Mt. Erica Hotel on the corner of High Street and Williams Road, but this local stalwart does not rest on its laurels, and it can claim to be one of the most cutting-edge contemporary European eateries in Melbourne since the opening of Austin’s restaurant. Inspired by the flavours and shared eating style of Spanish and wider Mediterranean food traditions, Austin’s champions local, fresh, seasonal produce (delivered daily) and turns them into a stunning array of tapas, shared plates and desserts that add fine-dining quality to the venue’s relaxed, casual atmosphere.

Starting from the tapas, every dish offered at Austin’s inside the Mt. Erica Hotel on High Street is worthy of a photo, probably one you could frame. However, it’s not only about presentation, and the taste is even more impressive. Blue swimmer crab is served with corn puree and crustacean oil for a super fresh seafood start, or go the Spanish way with lightly battered sardine fillet and pickled fennel. The choice of shared plates stretches from wagyu rump with goats curd to beetroot salad, duck breast with figs to roasted mushrooms with parsley and garlic, and a decadent chocolate marquise is only the start of some mouth-watering dessert options. It’s among Melbourne’s best shared dining experiences, just be sure to book because this Prahran treasure is no longer a secret.