One Eleven @ The Windsor

Located in the heart of Melbourne, the Windsor is famous for its grand Victorian architecture, glamorous heritage interior and traditional afternoon tea, which has been served at the hotel since its doors first opened. Lesser known is the impressive, thoroughly modern dining menu at One Eleven which aims to please even the most discerning palates.

The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Joel Alderson, whose resume boasts stints with Dan Hunter at Dunkeld’s The Royal Mail and Ben Shewry at Attica. These influences are readily apparent from the menu which showcases innovative modern Australian cuisine using excellent, locally sourced produce. Alderson challenges diners with eye-opening flavour combinations which we found to be elegant, perfectly balanced, seasonal and textural.

To complement the offerings, the wine list is substantial and well thought out, boasting a curated wine collection spanning a mixture of old and new world wines. Of course if you prefer, you can leave wine matching in the expert hands of sommelier Reynald.

We began with a few small plates. The starter of large shiso leaf, Otway shiitake, wagyu bresaola and yeast spoke volumes of Alderson’s calibre. The delicate shiso leaf cradled the earthy mushroom and wagyu bresaola - complex flavours interwoven with precise, expertly combined textures.

The seafood course of local calamari, toasted organic buckwheat porridge, sorrel fennel and bacon broth was innovative. The tender calamari was served in a beautiful sea of buckwheat porridge with an umami-laden broth. It was a beautiful and intriguing dish.

Umami reigns supreme across the menu at One Eleven, with another standout dish being the absolutely moreish miso roasted beef short rib, mixed pepper, mash and Guinness gravy - comfort food executed with laser like precision.

When it comes to dessert, do yourself a favour and order the cheese course - langres wash rind, organic apricots from here and there, almond and Vin Jaune. Simply stunning.

Alderson has crafted a thoroughly modern menu in a beautifully historic setting. We were surprised and delighted by One Eleven. Highly recommended.

Location: 111 Spring Street, Melbourne
Phone: 03 9633 6000
Link: www.thehotelwindsor.com.au
Cuisine: Modern Australian