Let us introduce Bomba, once known to Melbourne as The Aylesbury. This past incarnation of the space, with its air of fancy, was all about seasonable produce done in a nose-to-tail kind of fashion.

There’s a lot to commend about this approach, but it had ‘occasion’ written all over it. Bomba, however, is all about fun.

It’s Melbourne’s answer to the Spanish worker’s bar. Same team, same passion, but they’ve got a new, clear direction (and it just works). Run by chef Jesse Gerner and the team behind Anada on Gertrude Street, Bomba is a place for tapas, vermouth and good times.  

With some new light fittings, exposed brick and wooden touches, it’s a place where you can easily lose an hour or two.

Blackmore’s 9+ score wagyu cecina and chicken and manchego croquettes kick things off, while larger items see paella of duck and pork topped with crisp duck skin or perfectly plump Shark Bay prawns, served shell on. No one will argue when you order the decadent chocolate croquettes, or succumb to the cheese menu to finish the evening.

Spanish wines and vermouth – soon to be on tap – make for easy drinking.

Post tapas, take a trip up the elevator to the fifth level and have a drink on the rooftop. It’s an escape from the city, with a great drinks list. So good that you’ll find it tricky to leave.

Bomba Bar
Opening hours
Downstairs: Tues-Sun 5pm-late
Rooftop: Mon-Sun 3pm-late
103 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
(03) 9077 0451