Saros Bar & Dining

Let the troubles of the outside world melt away and lean back into the sophistication, style and elegance of Saros Bar & Dining. The new establishment ups the ante when it comes to fine dining in Moonee Ponds. Situated on the ground floor at The Sebel Melbourne, Saros is a New York-styled restaurant boasting an impressive and delicious A-class menu. Milk Bar visited the venue one weekday evening and supped, sipped and savoured all that was to offer.

Originally opened in June 2020, Saros befell the ill-fated circumstances of the 2020–21 extended COVID-19 lockdowns. Since re-opening, the eatery has emerged with a stronger desire to please and provide a truly joyous culinary experience for its patrons.

Casting her mind back to the lockdown period, Belinda Lee, General Manager, Sebel Moonee Ponds and Saros Bar & Dining says ‘eventually we were able to open in June [2020] for just four weeks and had an amazing response. With opulent chairs, VIP booths, a large selection of wine and spirits, cocktails and a delectable menu, our guests were wowed!’

At first glance, Saros is impressive and sleek. The central marble bar with gorgeous light fixtures sets the tone of sumptuousness. The a la carte menu is European inspired and designed to share. Expect to see items such as Burrata, Hummus served with raw vegetables, crostini and dill oil, and Saganaki cheese adorned with fresh lemon and fennel marmalade (a MUST try!), Tuscan fried chicken and Chicken liver pate served with apricot, cornichons and brioche.

Larger mains include winter warmers such as the tantalising pork & fennel sausage orecchiette, carrot risotto and baked eggplant, served alongside pumpkin, lentil and tomato curry, turmeric and labneh. In the end, we opted for the Coq au Vin and Roast duck breast. The Coq au Vin was served beautifully with smoked bacon, mushrooms and pomme purée. The classic French dish was mouth-watering and rich; the chicken was tender and flavoursome. The roast duck was complete with braised witlof, duck leg tortellini and jus à l’orange. Both dishes were cooked to perfection – talk about yum!

For dessert, Saros’ answer to apple pie is the Tarte Tatin. The dish is constructed with Granny smith apple, vanilla bean ice cream and salted caramel. Simply to die for. A very close second – only because apple pie is my favourite – is the very rich and impressive Bombe Alaska. This masterpiece is adorned with lemon and vanilla parfait, orange curd, Italian meringue, basil and lime gel.

Put a date at Saros Bar & Dining in your calendar very soon. The staff, including the attentive Belinda and Patch, are welcoming; the food is divine; and the wine and cocktails are expansive.

Saros Bar & Dining
41 Homer Street, Moonee Ponds, 3039
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 3pm to late
sarosbardining.com.au

Images: Sam D’Agostino