The Lodge Bar & Dining is in a beloved building on the busiest corner of Fortitude Valley, has a menu by one of New Zealand’s most venerated chefs and a wine list by New Zealand’s only Master Sommelier.
She’s a wine educator and the daughter of Gerald Diffey – the owner of the legendary Gerald’s Bar. He’s worked in some of Melbourne’s finest restaurants, bottle shops and wine bars. Together they own Vera, Newcastle’s most exciting new wine retailer.
“Playing with nostalgia is really what I want to be doing … so there’ll be a shorter hands-friendly menu at the bar and then some fun, flirty stuff happening in the bistro.”
It's a tribute to the five years chef Lennox Hastie spent living and working in the Basque Country. There’ll be Spanish wine, sherries and vermouths – served alongisde pintxos, share plates and other drinks-friendly snacks.
The latest venue by Michael and Zara Madrusan is a celebration of Michael’s Italian upbringing. Come for alfresco spritzes, deep pan pizza, and plenty of pasta.