No. 8 by John Lawson

No. 8 by John Lawson is a true stalwart of the Melbourne dining scene.  

The cuisine is bold and meticulously prepared. Inspired by regional produce, Executive Chef John Lawson delivers an urban sensibility to this Crown flagship restaurant. The essence of No. 8 by John Lawson is the use of traditional cooking techniques in the kitchen, contemporary combinations of flavours combined with a bespoke selection of carefully farmed local produce.

The restaurant is ideal for serious grape lovers, laying claim to an impressive and comprehensive wine list. Ceiling-high temperature controlled wine cabinets are elegantly displayed. The lengthy wine list covers the major grape varieties, but also includes less familiar varietals.

Lawson's experience spans stints at Aurora (London's five star Great Eastern Hotel), Daniel Boulud's three Michelin starred restaurant (New York) and Gordon Ramsay’s The London (New York). More recently, Lawson was Executive Chef at Maze Melbourne and its new chapter as Mr. Hive Kitchen & Bar. That vocational history is evident in No.8’s menu, with Lawson’s innovative flair being showcased through dishes strongly grounded in European gastronomy.

We started with the dish of Black and blue tunablack garlic, shitake mushrooms and aged soy. The dish was one of delicacy in terms of flavour, with the earthy mushrooms pairing wonderfully with the umami laden aged soy. 

For mains the Braised short rib of beef was superb. The beef short rib was stunning - Tender, falling off the bone, juicy and packed with flavour. A memorable dish combining flawless texture with equally superlative flavours, it was particularly noteworthy for its fragrant and complex beefy flavours. 

The Sweetcorn and chilli Eton mess was a truly novel and unlikely flavour combination of chilli meringue and various textures of corn that succeeded in balancing each element harmoniously and cohesively. Thoroughly modern, this dessert excited and delighted. 

Over the years, No.8 has played host to a number of highly acclaimed chefs.  Now at the pass, John Lawson is charged with the responsibility of maintaining its esteemed reputation.  The current menu exudes elegance and simplicity and looks to secure the restaurant’s place in the upper echelon of Melbourne’s culinary institutions.

Location: Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

Phone: 03 9292 8888

Link: https://www.crownmelbourne.com.au/restaurants/premium/no8-john-lawson

Cuisine: Modern European