Lunch @ The Press Club

My appointment wound up just after 12 and as I was in the city I decided to treat myself to a post-birthday lunch. As I was in the "paris-end" of Collins street I took advantage of this position and popped over to the Press Club.


bread, Kolympari Olive Oil and volcanic black salt

At lunch they offer an X-press lunch special which consists of either 2 or 3 courses of your choice from the a la carte menu as well as any specials that might be on offer. There is also a four course Lunch Kerasma.



I started with one of the specials - scallops on the half-shell



they are topped with skordalia and placed under the grill with a light dusting of breadcrumbs. Underneath is an braised onion and nut mixture.

I know it's sacrilege but usually I'm not a fan of scallop roe, however in this dish even the roe was delicious.


Braised Beef Stifado, kalamata olive crumble and a watercress and orange salad



They serve this with a knife but it's totally unnecessary - the beef just fell apart with the touch of a fork. A hearty dish perfect for autumn and winter.

Now I really didn't need dessert but I couldn't go pass this



the intriguingly titled, Hellenic Trifle 2008.

It was studded with candied cumquats, orange custard, orange granita and soaked sponge finger biscuits. Even though I couldn't finish it I was very glad to have tasted it.

Served with coffee was this

candied slices of quince.

Service as always was extremely professional and more than matched the quality of the food.

The details:
The Press Club Restaurant and Bar
72 Flinders Street
Melbourne
Phone: 03 9677 9677

Open:
Lunch: Monday - Friday and Sunday
Dinner: Monday - Sunday

web
www.thepressclub.com.au