East End Cellars Norwood

For more than 20 years, East End Cellars on Vardon Avenue has been the place to go for knock-off drinks, a semillon on a Sunday arvo, and even morning coffees. Having also opened Mothervine, the team were ready to expand their OG brand with this sibling cellar in Norwood.

While on the surface the Norwood space will look and feel much like its Vardon Avenue predecessor, there are some key points of difference. Mainly, an extended menu designed by executive chef Josh Lansley (formerly sous-chef at Osteria Oggi and head chef at Press Food & Wine).

To that end, the Norwood venue is as much a dining destination as it is a place to buy and drink wine. The menu includes brasserie classics such as steak frites and an apple tarte tatin. Plus, other European-inspired dishes such as Ligurian focaccia sandwiches; wild mushroom and truffle ragu gnocchetti; and a team favourite: the curried prawn sandwich. Cheese, charcuterie plates and even takeaway sandwiches are on hand for those looking for a quick bite.

The impressive wine offering includes 600 bottles, and like at the Vardon Avenue outpost, customers will be able to pick one up and drink it on-site for a corkage fee, or indulge in a list of by-the-glass options.