Le Gourmet

Mietta's Eating & Drinking in Melbourne 2000

Contributors' Choice
Page 13

It is hard to find a restaurant where the Austrian and German cuisine has lost none of its unique flavours, and yet is light and not calorifically "over the top". But this is what Eric Mohr, Le Gourmet's owner-chef, successfully creates. Those who know that his restaurant in Rosenheim, Bavaria, received 14 points from Gault & Millau, an exceptionally high rating for a European country restaurant, will not be surprised at the consistent excellence of the dishes you get here.

The restaurant, located in the premises that many know from its former incarnations as Bims, Gowings and Joyeux, has recently been completely redecorated and is elegantly comfortable with one room in rich dark reds and another in a contrasting pastel blue. The service is excellent and if Barbara Mohr is consulted and given an indication of what kind of dishes and wines you like, she is happy to help with excellent recommendations.

There are always two menus, one which consists of standard French-style dishes which often have a continental touch and include game and some superbly prepared seafood (including quenelles of blue swimmer crab that melt in the mouth). A second selection of Austrian specialties that are as authentic as they are delicious includes traditionals like liver dumpling soup and the famous "Salzburger Nockerl".

Barbara Mohr, who takes charge of front of house is a favourite with her clientele, not only for her always-cheerful manner, but also for her outstanding knowledge of Australian wines.

366 Albert Street
East Melbourne
Melways reference 2G:B1
Phone: 9416 3744
Opening hours: Lunch: Tue-Fri from 12noon Dinner: Tues-Sat 6pm- late
Licensed
Accept credit cards
Seating Inside: 60, Outside:10
Closed: Some public holidays
Features: Restricted smpoking, kids encouraged, bar, private roos seat 35, and 100
Favourite: Symphony seafood $15.90, Roasted crisp skin duck $25.90, Salzburger nockerl $12.90

*An updated review of Le Gourmet