If you’re a fan of contemporary Asian-influenced cuisine, creative cocktails and Melbourne’s lively theatre scene, there’s no finer setting for your next dinner out than Miss Pearl Bar and Dining. Situated smack bang in the heart of the Melbourne Arts Precinct, this sultry neon-lit spot is an ideal stop for drinks and nibbles before or after a show – though the diverse range of quality eats coming fresh and hot out of the kitchen may tempt you to upgrade said ‘nibbles’ into an all-out flavour-packed feast.
Nepalese-born head chef Sushil Aryal has curated a flexible menu split across small and large plates, sides and bar snacks, inspired to make the most of seasonal ingredients and fusion flavours. Highlights of his winter menu include crispy tofu with banana blossom, fried yuba and tamarind; lemongrass duck buns pan-fried with crispy chilli, salt and chilli squid with green papaya and lime; and barbecued pork collar with burnt pineapple, nuoc nam, ginger and annatto oil.
If you’re after something a bit heartier, a market fish comes bathed in fragrant tomato sambal, chickpeas and rice paddy herbs, and there’s also a flat iron steak from Jack’s Creek served with shio kombu and addictive togarashi-spiced fries, among more.
“I get so inspired by the food of Japan, Thailand and Vietnam, and this is very much on show in our new menu,” says Aryal.
You’ll taste that inspiration in the drinks list, too, which has been crafted to celebrate the bold tropical flavours of ginger, lemongrass, chilli, mango and lychee in a range of fun and fruity cocktails. There's plenty of tequila and rum on offer, and a solid range of wine and beers to round out your options.
Aryal has worked under some of the best chefs in Australia at renowned establishments like Cumulus Inc, Spice Temple, Vue de Monde, and he brings this experience to Miss Pearl via a stand-out dining experience in Southbank’s busy dining and entertainment district.
Whether you pop in for an express lunch, an evening tipple or a funky dinner booking with friends, this fresh new spot on the map is well worth a position on your hit list.