Like the clock strikes midnight – the date ticked over, and suddenly the mood changed. 1st of June not only marked the start of Winter, but the start of that biting cold chill. Those warm Autumn days a distant memory and we’ve entered into the season of chill blanes and icy crisp air. There is some good news about it, we get to rug up, pull out those winter boots, and embrace the cool. And luckily, on the boisterous Chapel Street, we get to stay warm, sip wine and indulge in delicious European fare.
The cosy wine room
Stepping foot inside on a freezing cold evening into this gorgeous eatery, its as though I’ve magically transformed into Europe (with the addition full blown Aussie accents). Everything about the interior charming. Drop-down lamps, luxurious booths and eclectic chatter. There’s designer handbags, high heels and heaps of (faux) fur. Secretly hidden plush purple couches lounge in the back, and images of beautiful peony flowers give a mood that alludes a sultry, exciting energy. Its all rather enchanting.
Drinks & Cocktails – Palate cleanser
Start with a cocktail? The answer, a mandatory not negotiable nod of ‘yes please’. Given its night time with the moon staring so brightly, I find it fitting to begin with a lunar Negroni. Not orange, but white, this stunning pallet pleaser has note of earthy rosemary and soft Lilette Blanc. I’m already in my happy place, and I’ve barely glanced at the menu.
The Menu – main event
A small rustic bowl with a big juicy bun of angelic white burrata is de-virgined by a pouring of rich red vodka sauce and bathes in an earthy green basil oil. Ruby pink slices of raw salmon crudo a swim in a chilli oil and are topped with nourishing shavings of fennel. This pretty baby plate has bite, punch, yet somehow retains its daintiness.
Being Winter, where my stomach feels like an empty pit, I have no issues with carb loading (after all, the 15 layers I’m wearing will surely cover those additional love handles). So, when they ask if I’d like a second piece of their fluffy house made focaccia that’s buoyant and bouncy (much like my Michelin tyre belly) and has a crisp top, I don’t say no. In fact, dipping this joyous dough into the myriad of oils whilst sipping a crisp glass of Polperro Chardonnay is a highlight moment of jubilation in itself. (Meanwhile my poor coeliac partner is looking at me with disarming food envy – #sorrynotsorry).
Thankfully the poor guy gets his moment of glory, decadence and top button popping open. Not just with the pink perfectly charred scotch fillet and velvety roasted tomato butter matched with a softly balanced Heathcote Syrah. But on the sweet front a crema de café, a coffee flavoured whipped cream, that’s plush, luscious and delightful.
There’s no denying, Winter has its challenges. But thankfully sun, hail, rain or shine we get to ease the pain with a visit to Windsor Wine Room.
The Verdict
What we are Addicted to: Quality dining at affordable prices – their Mamas Table offering 2 small, 2 large and 1 side for $49 pp.
What we need to be more Addicted: A gluten free bread that’s as fluffy as the focaccia (although likely a dream)
Windsor Wine Room 60 Chapel St, Windsor VIC 3181
Mon – Fri : 5pm – 10pm
Sat – Sun: 12pm – 10pm
