Winston’s

300-302 Beach Rd

Black Rock

Since my last food review I made a bit of a pact to myself that, until January I would try and review the best summer filled restaurants in all of Melbourne, despite Melbourne trying to convince us on the ‘off’ days that summer could be possible – sun streaming through windows, rooftops and beaches within eyesight – that’s what I’ve been trying to find.

If you’re going to do ‘beach-side’ in Melbourne, Black Rock is the closest thing we’ve got to a real beach.

Now, Winston’s isn’t trying to be fancy for the sake of it. It’s just good food, good people, and that laid-back seaside energy we all need in December.

Oh, and fun fact – Gordon Ramsay’s eaten there, so, you know, it’s legit.

The owners, Black Rock locals, were very smart in snapping up this beach-facing spot across from Black Rock Gardens; they draw their inspiration from New York Brasseries- you see that inspiration inform things from their wide-reaching menu to the black and white tiles and fluted glass.

When an older, accent-heavy, tanned waiter tells you to get the limoncello spritz… You get the limoncello spritz.

What I loved about their variation is that it was a little saltier than your average, topped with a lemon slice and a green olive.

We started with the lobster roll – soft, buttery, served with crisp iceberg and a handful of chips, just perfect for a summer afternoon.

The chicken liver parfait was next: smooth, rich, and lifted by bright condiments.

Then came the king prawns -big, juicy, coated in nduja brown butter with an almond crème that gave it a silky finish. Honestly, that dish was a standout.

The rigatoni in spicy vodka sauce was comfort in a bowl – al dente pasta, a hit of chilli, and that salty ricotta salata bringing it all together.

The moules frites, with plump mussels in white wine and garlic, made us feel like we were somewhere in southern France.

And even the broccolini got the star treatment – lemon, Aleppo chilli, and pecorino creating that perfect bright side dish.

Dessert was classic and indulgent. Sticky Date Madeleines – golden, warm, swimming in butterscotch with vanilla ice cream melting over the top.

And then the crème brûlée – perfectly set, that satisfying crack on top, flecks of real vanilla bean throughout.

We did originally order the chocolate mousse, but when they came back to our table to profusely apologise that they’d sold their last mousse already, they said they’d bring us the creme brulee instead for free.

Winston’s is one of those places that nails the balance – smart, relaxed, and perfect for the Melbourne summer we’re all hoping will turn up. It’s beachside dining done right.

Image: iStock