There are many different ways to be good, but this friendly Richmond wine bar seems to have mastered all of them. Neighbourly hospitality: tick. A sustainable wine list that highlights Victorian producers: tick. Fun plant-forward dishes made with local farm-to-table seasonal produce: tick, tick, tick.
In a sea of fast-paced venues and shiny new openings, Waygood brings something different to the table: a rare opportunity to slow down, smell the roses and enjoy the simple pleasures in life – all in great company, of course. The best way to experience this Swan Street wine bar is to stop in on a Tuesday evening for the Neighbourhood Nights series – an Ottolenghi-inspired vegetarian banquet priced reasonably at just $45 a head.
Menu-wise, think baked halloumi with caramelised pear and walnuts; artichokes with honey feta, sesame and brava sauce; braised broad beans with cumin, green tahini sauce and za'atar pita bread; and much more.
Never fear, there’s still plenty for both vegans and meat lovers on the menu, and sweets can range from a clafoutis with spiced apple, white chocolate and orange ricotta cream to a classic crème brûlée. If you're still thirsty after a wine or two, the cocktails keep it approachable with freshened-up crowd-pleasers like a Chilli Pomegranate Margarita or a New York Sour.
Backed by a team of hospo greats including founder Martin Pirc, who you might recognise from Punch Lane and Juliet Melbourne, Waygood is a cumulative labour of love, pure in its intention and refreshingly pared back in its execution.
For more details, go to the website.