The Bank on Collins — Gastrology

Melbourne hospitality industry husband and wife team, Stewart Koziora and Anna Carosa of Retail SAVVY Group have added to their plethora of restaurant and bars with the opening “The Bank on Collins” in mid October.

Housed in the grand banking chamber and mezzanine level of the heritage listed Bank of Australasia building on the corner of Collins and Queen Streets in Melbourne’s CBD , the venue boasts two story square pillars, marble floors and vintage chandeliers. Formerly used to serve as the Sebel Melbourne Hotel and Lobby bar, the venue now brings affordable luxury to the precinct.

The menu is extensive and is divided into user friendly sections.

Both our starters were delicious. The Poached prawns with watermelon, mint, feta and lemon dressing was refreshing while the Giant field mushroom stuffed with macadamia and goats cheese was moreish.

For mains the salmon was delectable. Boasting a wonderful crisp skin, the salmon was cooked simply, allowing the natural subtle sweetness of the salmon to be enjoyed. The accompanying bed of pistachio, craisin, quinoa and cherry tomato salad married together harmoniously.

Another winner was barramundi fillet with salsa verde served with vine ripe tomatoes. Seared beautifully on the outside and wonderfully moist on the inside, the barramundi was stunning.

Our dinner concluded with 2 well-conceived desserts that exhibited lovely flavour combinations.

While both desserts were beautiful, the semifreddo was a stand out. Possessing a lovely smooth texture, the right level of sweetness and crunch from the honeycomb, the semifreddo was well made and bursting with flavour.