Table or bar? When making a restaurant booking, most Australian diners opt for a table without giving it a second thought.
“Some people have good reasons for choosing a table, for example mobility issues,” says Italian chef Gabriele Olivieri, who earned his stripes in Michelin-starred Italian restaurants before settling into his new role as head chef at Melbourne pasta bar Pentolina.
“But in Italy, dining at the bar is a big part of our culture. It’s traditional to stand at the bar with our morning espresso, or to sit at the bar at lunch time for a quick bowl of pasta.”
So why not make like the Italians? Here are some great reasons to pull up a bar stool and enjoy a new view the next time you eat out.
1. You’re in the thick of the action
If the bar stools overlook the kitchen, as they do at Pentolina, you’ll get to watch the chefs at work up close. You’ll feel like one of the team – except that they’ll be sweating it out and you’ll be kicking back with a cocktail!
2. Watch the world go by
Pentolina also has bar stools in the windows overlooking Little Collins Street. Feel like some fresh air while you people-watch? Take a seat at the window and enjoy the passing parade.
3. It’s easier to get a table
No booking? No worries! Most restaurants will keep some bar stools free for walk-ins: dinner sorted, too easy.
4. It’s fast
No need to wait for someone to collect your meal and deliver it to your table. Cut out the waiter and let the chef hand your meal straight to you.
5. Pre-show food and entertainment all-in-one
Because it’s so fast, dining at the bar is perfect for a quick meal before the theatre or a movie. Plus, it’s entertaining in its own right! Off to the Comedy Festival? Skip the warm up act – from your high perch, you’ll get in the mood just by watching the staff and customers interact. If you’re lucky, there’ll be an argument or a diva fit!
6. It’s a solo diner’s dream
No need to feel self-conscious at a table for one. No one will batt an eyelid if you indulge in some “me-time” at the bar.
7. It’s a smart first date choice
Sure, an intimate table for two is nice, but what if your date turns out to be dull as dishwater? Seated at the bar, you’ll have the actual dishwater as a distraction! Plus, if you’re seated side by side, there’s less pressure to gaze into their eyes … very convenient if their eyes aren’t as dreamy as you’d hoped!
During March 2019, Pentolina is offering a special lunch at the bar for $30 including one pasta dish from the chef’s daily selection plus a glass of house wine, beer or soft drink. Available Monday to Thursday lunch for a limited number of guests. Book online at https://www.pentolina.com.au/bookings.
Pentolina – Fresh Pasta & Bar
2/377 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
Hours: Monday to Friday 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 10pm, Saturday 5pm to 10pm
Open Sundays & Public Holidays for group bookings and functions by prior arrangement.
