Something mouthwatering and magical's a'brewing. In the former home of Mary's Melbourne on Franklin Street, a brand new New Orleans-inspired restaurant has pranced onto the scene, bringing all the spirit and tastiest recipes of the American South in tow.
If you're salivating just thinking about classic Creole food, you'll be in good hands at Voodoo Bar and Grill. The concept and menu is from Benjamin Clark who formerly owned and operated two of London's award-winning venues for Southern fare (Nola London and Nola Roman Road).
At this jazzy new spot, you'll want to bib up before saucing up those paws with a kilogram of glazed pork wings, chowing down on cornbread, slurping on shrimp étouffée (a spiced Cajun-style vegetable and rice stew) and smacking your lips on lavish lobster tails – drenched in confit garlic butter, of course.
Other highlights of the menu include slow-cooked brisket, 800-gram slabs of bone-in rib eye steak and popcorn shrimp served with citrus and aioli. Going in a group? Get the four-person share platter, which generously includes a selection of the above.
Now it wouldn't be a true ode to New Orleans without a selection of luscious libations thrown into the mix, too, so there'll be plenty of those on hand – think Southern classics like Sazeracs, Boulevardier Hurricanes, Hard Iced Tea and house-created Voodoo Teapots to share, alongside a range of ice-cold beers, wines and spirits. And look out for the daily specials which are sure to be a treat.
Set against a backdrop of blues and jazz, entertainment and Creole-inspired design, Voodoo Bar and Grill isn't just a place to eat – it's also an all-out show! Book a reservation for either the 6.30pm or 8.45pm dinner and you'll be treated to a live performance feauturing burlesque acts curated by Brooke Bird.
"I’ve been fascinated by the culture, history, music, food and drinks of America’s South for as long as I can remember," says Clark. "I’ve spent a considerable amount of time there and always leave so inspired to bring a part of it home with me. Voodoo Bar and Grill is me tipping my cap to the South, with our NOLA-esque vibes, food, drinks. The team and I are excited to share our Southern-inspired version of the Big Easy with Melbourne."
Consider us excited in turn! Though bookings for dinner and show sittings are recommended, walk-ins are welcome for snacks and drinks.