Wally’s is the latest European-influenced wine bar to open in Albert Park

Many of Melbourne’s latest bar openings and restaurant makeovers lean on Eurocentric flavours, designs and atmosphere. It’s a bit of a safe choice in Melbourne, a city with deep European roots and a great love for Italian, French and Greek food.

But despite the busy market, Melburnians regularly fill each of these new spots. We’re looking forward to it. After all, who doesn’t like easy-drinking European wines paired with pasta, steak and charcuterie boards? It’s an easy win.

And the latest joint to join the club is Wally’s in Albert Park. Owner Baxter Pickard (surprisingly not named Wally) brings his long history of drinking and selling wine to the venue, curating an impressive list of European vinos.

He’s made sure to cover a lot of prices at Wally’s, ranging from affordable bottles starting at $50 to vintage and hard-to-find drops that will cost you around $200 each. Those who opt for the more expensive variants will receive wines that Pickard and his team won at auction. These will change depending on what is available at the time, so ask the crew to talk you through these extra special options.

But there are few wine bars in Melbourne that can only offer great drinks. We are now food and drink people who need fantastic snacks to accompany our drinking sessions. That’s why Pickard brought in Damon McIver (ex-Waxflower and Vex Dining) to manage the kitchen pass.

He has devised a frequently changing menu of European-inspired dishes created to pair with the evolving wine list. There will be a few small plates – think salted bonito, grilled leeks, fresh oysters with homemade hot sauce and skewers – as well as larger plates of pasta and steaks. It’s all quite classic and simple food, made to complement rather than exceed the wine.

Melbourne-based studio a.mi has also kept things fairly traditional, with lots of natural finishes and mirrored ceilings to create a French-leaning bistro vibe. Punters can sit in the bright wine bar or sit on the street, where pets are more than welcome.

It looks like a welcome addition to Albert Park – great for local wine lovers who want to have a casual drink with friends or go all out and discover some very special wines.

You’ll find Wally’s at 67 Cardigan Place, Albert Park, open Tuesday to Thursday from 3pm to late Tuesday and Friday to Sunday from noon to late. Check the location’s website for more information.

Images: Pete Dillon