Yarra Lounge - Melbourne

My score 3 stars. I had a quick solo bite here last month. Not very busy inside, only 1 couple plus me. Country music groovy but fairly loud – not as loud as the barman pretending to be an cowboy (I suspect cause he was bored). I ordered a glass of Albarino some Cheese croquettes. Wine was quite good I was given some complimentary spicy nuts which was a nice touch. Croquettes were good although the cheese was fairly mild, as was the supposedly “hot” sauce they came with. I would have liked to have eaten something else but the vibe from the male waiter/barman was poor (a female waiter was far more pleasant). I wasn’t surprised YL was basically empty when the place opposite the one next door were chockers...

We visited Yarra Lounge after going to a session at MIFF at the Sun Theatre. We have just returned from Europe where we enjoyed all the little bistros and wine bars, and can say with absolute confidence that Yarra Lounge is every bit as good! The service was prompt and enthusiastic without being intrusive, the wine selection (including by the glass) was awesome and well priced, and the food (we had some share plates) very generous and just delicious! I have read some of the other reviews which are a bit critical. I totally disagree. We will be back. Great value for money and a thoroughly European experience!!

A cold Saturday afternoon and we thought that the Yarra Lounge would be a great option. Probably won’t do that again. The restaurant itself was cold. Really cold. Even after asking for the heater to be turned on or up, there was no change. The food was uninspired and the gentleman waiter was not particularly friendly or helpful. When a young waitress arrived, we received better service, she actually waited on us as opposed to us having to search for service. A disappointing experience.

We were on our way to a movie but fancied a drink and food, so Yarraville Lounge looked the go. Service was fairly slow, it feels tired when the wait staff have no energy. Still the drinks were nice and food tasty. The fritters were amazing and cheese croquettes just right. We enjoyed the chorizo too, although there wasn't a lot of it. A pleasant spot for a light meal.

Friendly service, good wine list, yummy tapas, great spot! We took stools in the window to watch the passing parade. Lovely corner of Melbourne with a genuine village atmosphere!