Iconic Prahran venue, the Mount Erica Hotel, has undergone a transformation with a new team and two new offerings, Austin’s restaurant and Austin’s Pantry & Wine Bar.
Owner Mark McIlroy has engaged respected chef, Sunny Gilbert (MoVida Next Door, Orange) who has brought with him long-time colleague and venue manager Ross Murray (MoVida Next Door, Jamie Oliver Italian Kitchen). Together their efforts have transformed the once loved Mount Erica with a new direction inspired from their experiences.
Austin’s – named after Sunny’s son – is a Spanish and Mediterranean influenced restaurant and garden serving shared tapas dishes complemented by daily specials, using only the freshest, locally sourced and seasonal produce delivered each day. The ambiance is relaxed and the service friendly and quick, making it a great place to drop in for a casual drink or stay for a long lunch – the perfect local.
On arrival, guests are given complimentary in-house baked bread, and invited to choose a selection of tapa to accompany their drinks, including; Boqueron – Spanish white anchovies, pickles; Sardines – lightly battered sardine fillet, pickled fennel; and Croqueta – Mahon and leek.
A blackboard features daily-rotating seafood and meat specials that are designed to accompany the larger share plates. A selection of classic, Spanish influenced dishes makes an appearance on new menu including; Calamari – pan fried, parsley, garlic, lemon, summer cress; Assadillo – tomato, roasted red peppers, onion, sherry vinegar; and Patatas Bravas – fried potatoes, mojo picon, aioli.
The succinct wine list features varieties from local Victorian suppliers and a selection of Sunny’s favourites from Europe.
Already popular with locals and those waiting at the tram-stop is Austin’s Pantry & Wine Bar, the venue’s delicatessen, offers a gourmet selection of cheeses, French butter, charcuterie, conserves and in-house baked bread. Freshly ground coffee, boutique wines and craft beer and are also available to purchase to dine-in or takeaway.
An interior revamp has taken place in the restaurant; authentic cream tiles have been laid and the walls splashed with bright colours. A large window to the kitchen gives drinkers and diners a view into the heat and activity.
The Mount Erica fit-out now has an element of Spanish flair, creating a rustic and inviting atmosphere. The space will continue to evolve over the coming months with more changes planned for the interiors, while still retaining the 160-year-old history of the building.
Address: 420 High Street, Prahran
Opening hours: Daily 11am until late
Website: www.mterica.com.au
