Jordan Clavaron is Head chef at Lucia in South Melbourne; arriving at this south side restaurant having worked at Cutler & Co and Society, bringing his culinary kudos with a Mediterranean hat-tip at this 80-seater winner.
The focus at Lucia is seasonality, where the best of Australian produce is emphasised on the menu – think Fremantle octopus skewers and local dry-aged rib-eye steak. And of course, in Clavaron’s capable hands, his travels from his native France to Spain and Italy certainly inform his cultured finesse in the kitchen.
The wine list is curated by Head Sommelier Simone Garro (Riserva) – where more than 400 wines cover a range of regions, price points and grape varietals.
Jordan Clavaron talks to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
I live in Mornington, Victoria. I love that I am far away from the city. I feel like when I’m home, away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, I can relax and switch off. That’s important for me. Being a chef can be all consuming.I am also very lucky to have so many local farmers and great products around me – I am inspired to cook with some magnificent produce.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
I remember growing up, spending hours in my Dad’s restaurant [he was a Michelin star chef in France], helping him make mashed potato. I had to wear my Dad’s chef jacket (which was way too big for me). I think I was around five years old.
I also remember having great naps in his office.
FAVOURITE BAR
My favourite bar is Many Little Bar and Dining in Red Hill. The place is fantastic and the perfect place to relax and unwind. My drink of choice when I go there is an oaked Negroni.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
I have to say a spicy margarita – strong, spicy and interesting flavour and salty.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Unfortunately, a Big Mac from Maccas. Is there anything else?
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Gerard’s Bar in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. It’s cool and moody and has a great vibe. As usual, I will order a Negroni but they also make a great silk sour. The bar snacks are a winner too – I go for the anchovy toast and fried chicken. I highly recommend it.
FAVOURITE WINE
Bollinger. It’s a classic, and will please everyone. My all-time favourite champagne.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Montalto Estate in Red Hill.
It’s in a stunning location and the wine and food are just perfect. This place for me ticks all of my boxes of what winery dining should be.
NEXT DESTINATION
Definitely South America. The cities look vibrant, and the food scene looks amazing, Brazil, Chile and Argentina are at the top of the list.
