Tommy Ruff

A welcomed addition to Windsor's thriving food scene, Tommy Ruff is a fish bar that’s all about premium seafood backed by a family of hospitality gurus.

Designed by Studio Equator, the coastal-themed space sees a pastel colour palette and oak-wood furnishings adorned with Tommy Ruff’s signature graffiti and unique interior quirks. A giant neon skull greets guests upon entering, while fishing nets and ropes dress the walls. Light bulbs hanging from fishing rods and giant fish water jugs are just some of the design stand-outs.

Tommy Ruff is the brainchild of a family entrenched in the world of seafood. Owners, John and Helen Stamoulis aimed to change the perception of traditional fast food with a focus on flavour, fresh produce and healthy ingredients. Growing up on the Greek island of Samos, John’s father lived and breathed the ocean. Upon migrating to Australia he worked at a fish and chip shop and was hooked ever since. Following in his footsteps, John and Helen dived into the hospitality world, but decided to give the humble fish n’ chips a fresh twist.

While guests can feast on traditional fish and chips, it’s Tommy Ruff’s diverse range of unexpected seafood delights that sets it apart. 

To start we loved the fish ceviche, a wonderful mélange of different textures, natural sweetness and acidity. The seafood chowder was similarly delicious and full of plump seafood.

If you're craving traditional good ol' fish and chips then Tommy's Packs are the way to go. With the loved the generous Tackle box for 2 featuring fish (beautifully grilled or battered), calamari rings, king prawns, potato cakes and chips. 

For something more interesting, the rotating specials will do the trick. During our visit we enjoyed a stunning whole fish special - deboned baby barramundi with fluffy jasmine rice and a refreshing Asian salad. 

For the indecisive, there’s also Tommy’s impressive chef platter, bundling all the good stuff into one generous tray of seafood heaven. It sees tacos, oysters, grilled fish, prawn skewers, calamari, fish wings and chips unite, ideal for tucking in as a couple or group.

And if that’s not enough, the team at Tommy Ruff have developed their own line of wine, craft beer and cider. With a focus on bespoke beverage offerings, Tommy’s Victorian Scully Wag Pinot Gris or Marlborough White Pearl Chardonnay are the perfect seafood accompaniment, along with the Kraken and Whale draught beer and Kiss of the Mermaid pear cider. There’s also an ever- changing cocktail menu, ideal for after work drinks or a cheeky mid-day sip.

Location: 121 Chapel Street, Windsor
Phone: 03 9521 7195
Link: http://www.tommyruff.com.au