MELBOURNE | If you’ve been following the growth in Colombian food in Melbourne, you’re likely aware of Juan Berbeo. The former Pastuso and Piqeueos chef is one of the pioneers of Melbourne’s Colombian food scene, introducing Melburnians to Colombian food at his restaurant, Berbeo Bros, and pop-ups in kitchens across the city, and at events like Meatstock.
A few months ago, Juan relocated Berbeo Bros from South Melbourne to Docklands, and christened the new space, Berbeo Bar & Grill. I recently popped in for What’s on Melbourne to find out more.
Berbeo Bar & Grill is a reflection of not just Juan’s Colombian heritage, but his love of, and experience cooking, food from across South America. Berbeo Bros was strictly a Colombian street food and BBQ restaurant, however the new spot is more ambitious. It’s a more sophisticated space, welcoming but a bit more slick and stylish. The long bar and open grill stations dominate, inviting guests to pop in for a full meal, or just a drink and a snack.
Food wise, think South American steakhouse with a Colombian heart. Juan’s popular Colombian empanadas feature, and are as good as ever. I recommend ordering a selection of the wagyu beef, chicken, and cheese and corn. Arepa choclo – pan fried masa de arepa, with melted mozzarella cheese, is another must order.
Fans of ceviche have a few options. A tasty grilled prawn option with agridulce sauce, a Peruvian-style fish of the day with tiger’s milk, and a must try fried pork loin strips and chicharron version.
Steak at Berbeo Bar & Grill is some of the best in Melbourne, with beef sourced exclusively from Sher Wagyu. There’s several South American cuts on offer, along with chicken and fish. I highly recommend the punta de anca. It’s Colombian-style rump cap that’s tender with a nice chew, with ends of melt in your mouth fat. Each ‘grill’ dish comes with your choice of side, sauce and salad. Papa criolla, little golden roasted potatoes, are my favourite.
For dessert, you have to try the tres leches urchin. It’s a dense sponge cake made with three types of milk, coated in dulce de leche, topped with Aperol meringue.
To drink, it’s a quality selection of Australian and South American wines, spirits, and cocktails, along with a few easy-drinking Colombian-style beers brewed especially for the restaurant by nearby Westside Ale Works.
Berbeo Bar & Grill
7/850 Collins Street
Docklands
Victoria 3008
Australia
Telephone: 0413 595 851
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Mon – Thu: 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Fri: 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Sat: 5:00pm to 10:00pm