Dinner Omnia Bistro and Bar at Capitol Grand South Yarra
Omnia Bistro & Bar, a European restaurant of note (previously a successful pop up), has launched at the award winning luxury Capitol Grand development in South Yarra. The World Loves Melbourne was invited along to enjoy a fabulous dinner and we were highly impressed with the bar, the chic setting and the extraordinary bistro dining experience.
First a G&T from the extraordinary bar.
Open for lunch and dinner, with breakfast to follow by the end of the year, the restaurant has fostered a community of loyal diners, garnering applause and recognition from customers and critics alike for its inviting atmosphere, friendly service and refined menu. Building on this strong foundation, the restaurant’s evolution will deepen the connection with diners through an expanded menu. Front of house has welcomed the additional expertise of Kevin McSteen (formerly of Attica - VIC, Eleven Madison Park - NYC, Dinner by Heston - LDN ), who has joined the team as General Manager.
Executive Chef Stephen Nairn has spent the last four months of the pop up visiting producers throughout Victoria, sourcing a wider selection of ingredients that will feature in Omnia’s expanding menu from the new purpose-built kitchen. The introduction of a large smoker allows for dishes like brisket and smoked lamb ribs. Various aspects of the menu - both food and beverage - include a table-side trolley service, with bespoke trollies designed specifically for this purpose.
Omnia Bistro & Bar will introduce a breakfast menu featuring the signature French tartine breakfast - a selection of pastries and preserves (croissants, house-made bread, pain au chocolat, house-made jams, local raw honey and bottomless coffee). European breakfast staples, house-smoked trout and also sausages and lighter seasonal fruit dishes will create a menu suitable for a quick coffee with friends or a breakfast meeting. Stay tuned.
The house made bread made an impression, and we had to order more. Pleasantly chewy.
Designed by Architects EAT in association with Curious by Design, this large restaurant offers numerous seating options to suit different moods and occasions. The airy vaulted front room creates an elegant and comfortable atmosphere, with its floor to ceiling windows overlooking Chapel Street.
Seating at the large central bar directs the gaze over the bespoke mural by Capitol Grand artists in residence, Bromley & Co., whose other purpose-made pieces include a series of bronze sculptures and curated greenery. The rear of the restaurant is a more classic space with a curved wooden ceiling and leather banquettes. Here, guests can dine overlooking the kitchen, and for those wishing a front seat to the action, kitchen counter dining is also available.
Ocean trout cigars were a clever memorable dish with big flavour.
Omnia Bistro & Bar is the first restaurant to open in South Yarra’s Capitol Grand luxury development, with further restaurants and bars to open throughout 2020. The original pop-up site at 25 Toorak Road, South Yarra will remain as a private event space to be used for end-of-year celebrations and exclusive private functions only available until February 2020.
Spring tart, smoked quail egg, pea shoots and black pepper a seasonal delight.
With Kevin McSteen from Attica and Dinner by Heston on front of house, diners are in expert hands. Fit out is chic, and the team brought the distinctive birds and butterflies on the wall to their new home at The Capitol Grand.
Yellowtail kingfish, apple and kaffir lime a zesty triumph.
A spread of note with the best of European tastes and textures.
Another highlight was the Duck liver parfait, ruby port glaze, pear and lemon thyme. Indulgent and elegant.
Steak tartare, red capsicum, dried chilli, egg yolk and pomme gaufrette. This take on tartare was a revelation with some kick.
Delicious food that brings to the table more than what is expected; a new high bar has been set for bistro food with fabulous technique.
Mains hit the high notes including top notch pasta with Zucchini agnolotti, marinated capsicums, jalapeno and almonds. Sexy presentation, as with all the dishes.
OK so we wanted to feature another pic of the Ocean Trout Cigars.
Stuffed quail, barley risotto and mushrooms. Quail as we've never seen it. The de-boning of the quail is next level.
Expert wine pairings.
Can't speak highly enough of Chef Stephen Nairn; a rising star not only in Melbourne but on the world stage. Creative genius alert.
Roasted pork belly, boudin noir, peach and fennel was a triumph. Perfectly cooked pork with delightful crackling, complemented by boudin noir (love black pudding) and refreshing peach and fennel with killer sauce.
Fish lover? This whole flounder, brown butter, lemon and capers is a substantial rewarding dish.
Crispy skin barramundi, globe artichoke, romesco and pinenuts hits the high notes.
I've also never seen ratatouille like this and this Omnia ratatouille is a must order to accompany any of the mains. Clever, fun, delicious side showcasing the European influences of the menu and exceptional presentation.
Aged sirloin, chips and sauce bordelaise received rave reports.
Herb crusted rack of lamb, green olive and labneh showcasing the best of lamb with delightful pink tinge.
Gascony apple pie, salted caramel and vanilla bean ice cream. Dessert menu does not tail off at all; you may in fact encounter some of the most memorable desserts you've ever enjoyed.
Banana split, peanut cremeux and rum and raisin ice cream.
One of my highlights of the year is the Liquid centre cheesecake with blackberry sorbet. The topping is like a bread and the liquid centre is a revelation.
Frozen strawberry shortcake with Saint David's cream is a delicate and elegant dessert.
The hits kept coming with this Milk chocolate bounty, chocolate sauce and coconut sorbet, bringing out the inner child.
Finishing off with handcrafted chocolates.
The Capitol Grand itself is impressive with luxe 6 star residential property not far from the city and in a premium precinct with all the amenities. Boasting 24/7 concierge, private club, pool, access to fine dining room service, function rooms, gym and eclectic South Yarra on your doorstep, what more could you want? Omnia complements The Capitol Grand and its clientele (and beyond) perfectly as a premium luxe offering.
This was a dinner experience to remember from a super talented team. Possibly the hottest opening of the year. Highly recommended.