A local bistro for local people. We previewed Brother Mine a few weeks back and learned of the teams plans to create a space where the neighbourhood could gather to share a drink and a bite to eat with friends and family. It sounded like just my type of place and I was eager to see if the reality matched their vision.

The welcoming is warm on entry. It’s a good start. What was recently an antiques store has been converted into a bar and dining room. There is a lot of wood and soft pillows that take the edge off the polished concrete. The large windows provide a stunning view out onto the busy street while black and white movies play out on a wall. The music is old school jazz and it fits the place perfectly.

Drink orders are taken and some excellent rustic bread arrives soon after. It’s made in house and gives a taste of what is to follow.

And what follows is a procession of tastes I’ll return for again and again. A rillette of duck is moist and flavoursome sitting atop shavings of their house sourdough. It’s a generous serving of meat and well balanced by the herb sauce and the piccalilli.

Scallops are featured in an elegant dish consisting of eight very fresh mollusks paired with citrus, char, pickle, and cream. It’s a really delightful little starter.

The menu is concise with 4 entrees, 4 mains, 4 sides and 4 desserts. This really does allow the kitchen to put a lot of love into each dish while catering for most dietary needs and tastes.

The cauliflower in particular is a stand out from the side dishes, so much flavour in each floret.

Their lamb pie is classic bistro fare with rich, warming flavours and tender meat under a flaky shell. The mushy peas a nice touch.

Rolled pork belly is served simply, a fantastic piece of meat for lovers of such. The deeply complex jus lifting it further. There is no fancy techniques here, no foams or gels. It’s all quality ingredients expertly cooked with flavour at the forefront.

Dessert and a Negroni a fitting end. The s’more is excellent with chewy marshmallow and the cream not overly sweet while the Negroni is sophisticated and balanced. The drinks list is extensive featuring classic cocktails, selected wines, apéritifs and more. If you’re just in for a beverage a separate bar menu tempts with house made charcuterie and the like..

Service is friendly, professional and spot on. Young families dine side by side with business professionals. It’s a great place and provided one of my favourite dining experiences of recent times.

Brother Mine, 31 New Town Road (03) 6288 7043

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