It’s time to put this South Melbourne basement supper club on your list of places to visit. Castlerose – known for its old-school service charm, is the latest project for hospitality lead Glen Bagnara who put his elegant touch on venues such as Hemingway’s Wine Room and Bar Bianco.
The new basement bar and restaurant is inspired by old-world English dining – fit enough for former British Prime Minister’s like Winston Churchill; where opulence, moodiness and drama come together for those private soirees.
Try the magnificent wine list which takes you to all the regions from France, Germany, and Italy with renowned bottles from regions such as Champagne and Burgundy. Stay for the food created by Head Chef David Yuan – where classic European style dishes rule the menu.
Glen Bagnara spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
I live in East Melbourne and have done so for 20 years. I love it as I’m close to CBD, Collingwood and Fitzroy as well as Parks etc. Having the city’s best restaurants and wine bars in walking distance is essential for me.
FOOD MEMORY
Dining with my besties at 11 Eleven Madison Park, circa 2017. During that time the venue was at the top of its game. Every dish was perfect, service was just impeccable, great wine list. The best part of it all is that it felt natural, not pretentious. Having NYC as the backdrop doesn’t hurt either. The perfect evening.
FAVOURITE BAR
I love sitting at the bar when I’m at City Wine Shop, Spring Street Melbourne on a Sunday afternoon. I could people watch for hours with my wife and son – some snacks and a nice chilled bottle of Chenin Blanc. On a nice day, snagging a table outside is also awesome.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Vesper Martini: Clean, precise, no mucking about. It’s perfect. I constantly strive for better and look for perfection from myself and my team
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Bah Mi from N.Lee bakery on Smith St, with extra pork and extra chilli
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Maybe Sammy: Epic Sit at the bar, order some snacks and let them suggest the tipples
FAVOURITE WINES
For a casual dinner at my place: Domaine Bel-Air Morgon Les Charmes. It’s bold, well structured and has the most silky tannins. 100% Gamay. If I want to go all out it’s gotta be 2008 Dom Perignon Rose. One word…..Wow. I know it sounds a little pretentious but you have to have this wine at some point in your life
It’s rich, vibrant and beautifully balanced. Celebrated my wife’s 40th with this wine. It’s hard to forget.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Longview in the Adelaide Hills – great wine, beautiful property and wonderful hosts. Love the combination of old school architecture combined with modern design set into the Adelaide Hills
NEXT DESTINATION
Singapore -Fullerton Hotel. It’s an extravagance however the service is next level and is money well spent. These guys do it better than most. Food, Food and More food – for me it’s just the best from the Hawkers Centres to fine dining and everything in between.
