Doc Martin’s Bar On Collins Street

Unlike most trips to the doctor, it was my pleasure to drop by and enjoy the fresh new bar that is Doc Martin’s, an effortless extension of the already classy Collins Quarter. Being at the Paris End of Collins Street, Doc Martin’s holds true to oozing a definitive European feel. Bold black and white interior teamed with the amber ambiance of glowing bulbs enhances the sophisticated yet relaxed feel of Doc Martin’s.

Walking into the bar, you’re greeted with an array of scrumptious looking potions, fitting for an ex-Doctors consulting rooms. The friendly staff are very knowledgeable and their recommendations were extremely well received. Doc Martin’s hosts a selection of delicious aperitifs and digestifs, popular in Europe, it was my delight to enjoy a glass pre dinner.  The sweet drop from the Yarra Valley was scrumptious and I enjoyed every sip.  If you have some time, there are many to choose from and the menu is mastered in such a quirky way that the ‘prescriptions’ are listed with medicinal benefits, as if we needed an excuse!

The extensive drinks menu has been extremely well crafted. The choice of carefully selected whiskeys would give any authentic whiskey bar a run for its money. Treat yourself to a cocktail, with many to choose from, any palate will be satisfied, why not opt for a jug to share? Head bartender Zeb touched on a few of his favourite concoctions. I smiled as he unpretentiously joked his favourite drink was any in front of him. I think with his skill and balance of pouring drinks, this could be true for me too!

Dinner was equally enjoyable, the bar menu is equipped with moreish tastings. Order a light snack or pair a few of the scrummy options together if you’re more on the peckish side. I chose The Tasting Plate which served a delicious variety of assortments. Spiced Calamari was satisfyingly crunchable and the generous serve of creamy aioli topped it off brilliantly. Paired with a beautiful spiced apricot and date chutney, Pork and Pistachio Terrine tasted fabulous. The goats cheese Bruschetta was truly flavoursome, drizzled with basil oil, the snack was a super spruced up version. Along with the Tasting Plate, I lapped up a serve of quite honestly some of the biggest olives I’ve had, finger licking good!

Doc Martin’s boasts a comfortable outdoor spot, nestled amongst high end shopping such as Prada and Cartier, the bar rises to the elegant atmosphere of its location. I nursed a gorgeous glass of French red recommended to me while absorbing the buzz of city goers. I can imagine a cup of coffee, which Doc Martin’s also provides, along with a seat in the sunshine would be a perfect way to spend a Melbourne morning.

Doc Martin’s is a symbiotic extension of Collins Quarters and, I think, adds a great front face to the establishment. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience, so get along and enjoy yours too!

Doc Martin’s
86 Collins Street, Melbourne