The Robbie Burns’ new Spring menu

The Robert Burns Hotel has proudly resided on the corner of Smith and Easey Streets for decades, a dependable spot for a fine Collingwood evening.

With the pleasant shell of an English Pub and an impressive commitment to Scottish tartan, this cosy little world is a master of disguise, offering up an authentic Spanish menu cooked by authentic Spanish chef Ivan Saiz, who’s just launched a new Spring menu.

The new lighter menu features a seafood heavy list including Ensalada de salmón curado (cured salmon salad with dill mayo dressing, $14.9) and Ostras fritas a la andaluza (garlic and parsley crumbed oysters with gazpacho and jamón $4) with descriptions matching the region the dish is from.

Determining a stand-out dish is a tricky task, but a delicious one to be sure. Whilst most things took my fancy, the Paella negra (squid ink paella, $24pp) is definitely worth a try for its subtle smoky tones, tender cuttlefish and plump white scallops. Plus it looks really cool.

Oh, and you must try the Tarta de almendra tierna con helado de PX (almond tart with Pedro Ximenez ice cream, $10.90). The sherry flavoured ice-cream might be the best I’ve had this year and is a nifty way to mix dessert and a nightcap. Yum.

The new Spring menu lets Saiz exercise his culinary chops and shows there’s more to Spanish in Melbourne than tapas. There’s flamenco too, which happens at the Robbie Burns every Wednesday night!

THE ROBERT BURNS HOTEL
376 Smith Street, Collingwood
9417 2233
Mon - Tues 5pm - Late
Wed - Sun 12pm - Late
robertburnshotel.com.au