MELBOURNE | Inspired by the classic bistros of France, 98 Lygon Street Bar & Bistro is a new venue by hospitality veterans Ben Clark and Simon Aukett. Located in the space formerly home to Maggie’s, much of the existing fitout has remained intact, while being a bit more casual and stripped back.
The front has been opened up and features comfy couches (yes that’s a nod an even earlier tenant of the space), and extends back, past a long timber bar, to an outdoor courtyard and a private dining room. To the side, a cosy dining space for those looking for a full meal, which you’re also more than welcome to enjoy at the bar.
The kitchen is headed up by former Builders Arms chef Brian MacAlister. He’s created a tight menu filled with bistro classics that are tweaked with the seasons. For snacks its things like beef cheek croquettes, Manchego and chive gougères, and toast with chicken liver parfait and pickles.
Larger dishes include things like barley risotto with confit duck, and steak frites. During the winter, you’ll also find a classic, comforting French onion soup to enjoy. And for dessert, crème brûlée of course.
The drinks list, features a mix of French wines, and wines from local, independent winemakers that nod to French styles. There’s also an assortment of house and classic cocktails, and three beers on tap. The house lager, brewed by Mountain Culture, is a great shout, and if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the Night Howler. It’s a tasty mix of Howler Head banana bourbon, Wild Turkey rye, burnt butter, and bitters.
As a local, I’ve popped in several times for a drink and a snack, and think that the team have created a space that’s right for the area. Casual, welcoming, and unpretentious, 98 Lygon does well in capturing the essence of what makes a bistro great, with a Melbourne touch.
98 Lygon Street Bar & Bistro
98 Lygon Street
Brunswick East
Victoria 3057
Australia
Telephone: (03) 7302 0018
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Sun – Wed: 12:00pm to 11:00pm
Thu – Sat: 12:00pm to 12:00am