Calia

With a sustainably-minded menu created by Michelin Star chef, Francisco Javier Araya and a prime location within Emporium Melbourne, newly opened Calia has an ever growing fan base. And it's easy to understand why.

The venue offers a unique experience that allows diners to try-before-they-buy, sampling high-quality restaurant produce that is also available to take home at affordable prices. Each and every supplier has been carefully considered, with respected seafood and fish supplier Mark Eather venturing into his first-ever retail partnership with Calia, alongside a number of other environmentally friendly products such as Manuka Honey and Milked Osetra Caviar.

Giving Melbourne culinary creatives the opportunity to replicate a touch of luxury at home, the stellar line up of suppliers also includes Robbins Island Wagyu beef, Flinders Island Wagyu beef and meat, Yarra Valley Truffles and Red Hill Truffles, Coffee by Seven Seeds, as well as pastries and bread by Chez Dre and sweet treats by Bibelot.

Interactive masterclasses, workshops and educational events will also be held at the Emporium site. Wine tasting, sake appreciation and private dining experiences are just some of the offerings for clientele, with more exciting events and opportunities in the horizon.

Araya’s Japanese menu at Calia is inspired by the best and most ethical produce available.

To start, the Scalloped Sākuru was stunning and featured plump freshly caught scallops dressed in a delightful wasabi ponzu sauce.

For lovers of sashimi the Chirashi Calia is a must. The slices of sustainably caught sashimi were staggeringly fresh and exquisitely textured. It is clear that Calia is using only the freshest, highest quality seafood.

The Kinoki Bowl was similarly delicious. Perfect for vegans (and everyone else!), this was a wholesome and absolutely moreish bowl filled with a varietal mix of perfectly cooked and seasoned mushrooms and tofu and finished with a decadent drizzle of black truffle oil and a hit of ume.

Dessert time is equally as exciting at Calia. Whatever you do, do not leave without trying the Matcha Lava Lava. Think rich chocolate lava cake billowing with warm matcha ganache. It is absolutely divine! 

In line with Emporium’s business hours, the one-of-a-kind venue opens daily from 10am, trading until 7pm Monday through to Wednesday and on weekends, and open late on Thursday and Friday until 9pm. 

Location: Shop 8, Level 3, Emporium Melbourne, 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Phone: (03) 9662 1688
Link: http://calia.com.au/