The Fancy Parrot

Nothing is cosier or friendlier than a neighbourhood bar. Luckily, they’re nestled all across Melbourne, so if you ever find yourself in a new suburb and want to experience the vibe and atmosphere of the community, look no further than the local watering hole.

The Fancy Parrot is one of Ascot Vale’s top social spaces. A relatively new kid on the block, the boutique bar opened its doors on Union Road in July 2019, and has already woven itself into the fabric of the friendly little suburb. The Fancy Parrot prides itself on being relaxed, casual and inclusive, a space where people from all backgrounds and walks of life can come in and enjoy good food and drinks with friends. Milk Bar ventured North West for the evening to check it out.

The food menu is concise but carefully and lovingly curated featuring an assortment of share plates, perfect for nibbling over a wine or craft beer. You’ll find ‘Fancy’ twists on classic bar menu items, such as arancini with sundried tomato, feta, spiced labneh and grana padano. Unique additions include dishes such as mixed mushrooms with fresh herbs and crispy pan fried-polenta, and zucchini flowers with house-made romesco sauce. Everything is free range, sustainably sourced and organic, and plenty of the dishes are vegetarian and vegan. After a long day at work, settling in with a friend, a rustic cheese board and a glass (or bottle) of Shadowfax Pinot Noir is literally what dreams are made of. 

The drinks menu is expansive but the friendly bar staff are more than happy to offer their expertise and help you pick your poison. Their cocktail list features modern versions of your classics. Feel like an Espresso Martini? You’ll get the Coco Loco, a tropical take on the drink with a blend of rum, coffee and coconut. Or for something more sprightly, try the Polly Parton, featuring sloe gin, peach and lime topped with sparkling wine. The list of wines by the bottle spans multiple pages, even offering a range of zero sulphate/natural wines and pet nats. Something for everyone, that’s The Fancy Parrot’s motto. 

The Fancy Parrot is so cosy and welcoming that it’s absolutely worth jumping on the 57 tram out to Ascot Vale just to spend an evening feeling ‘Fancy’. Pick and spot by the bar or in the beer garden and toast to good friends and a great city.

The Fancy Parrot
162 Union Road, Ascot Vale, 3032
Open Wednesday to Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday, 3pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday, 3pm to 11pm, Sunday, 3pm to 10pm
thefancyparrot.com