A wine bar, a bottle shop, or something else? When you walk past Garage on Glen Eira road, it’s somewhat missable. This cute joint is situated in the eclectic suburb of Ripponlea. It sits opposite the famous Yiddish bakeries and the notoriously elite Fruit Palace, where you massively overpay for the best tomato of your life. It quietly stands out.
Garage isn’t trying to be anything. And somehow, that’s exactly why it’s everything.
Inside The Wine Bar – The design
Rustic interior, brick walls, and hundreds of racks of bottles on display. Wine buffs could whisk away hours browsing the shelves at Garage in awe of the amazing collection of international and local drops available for purchase. However, most people don’t know the best part. For a nominal fee, you get to sit inside this sweet place and drink them.
Perched on the open air window, on a warm sunny day, with the glorious sunshine beaming in, a dry French Rose is simply a must. Before you even notice, a million laughs and a few bottles are down, yet your pocket is not ripped up.
BYO Dining – When the clock strikes dinner time
But suddenly hunger starts to strike. Garage has you covered. There is no specific food offering, but you are welcome to BYO food from anywhere to complement whatever drop you’re enjoying. By this stage, it might be a stunning rich Chablis turning into an earthy pinot. It becomes Uber Eats on speed dial.
If time seems to have ticked too quickly over glasses and giggles, and you’re in the ‘I need food now’ phase, down the road is Mission District. This awesome Mexican joint does takeout well, like a chunky Baja (fried fish) burrito. For those daring enough, you could try a Quesa birria taco. This messy, insanely delicious melting beef brisket is wrapped in a cheesy taco and dipped in a boldly rich consomme. No cutlery is required; it’s a lick-your-finger situation. However, you’ll definitely want a serviette or twenty, and being a wine bar, they don’t exist. No one really cares, as the place is not pretentious; it’s all part of the fun, smiles, and warmth.
Garage isn’t just a wine shop; it’s a remarkably memorable affair. With beautiful wine, spectacular company, and a corner store that is notable gold, it stands out.
Shhhh, don’t let anyone know the secret.
The Daily Addict Verdict
What we’re Addicted to?: Exceptional wines paired with whatever cuisine you’re craving, all at insanely affordable prices.
What we need to be more Addicted?: While the open window is glorious, the place is crying for some outdoor seating on those beautiful sunny days.
Garage Wine Store & Bar 42/44 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Vic 3183
Sunday -Thursday: 10am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday : 10am -11pm
