The George on Collins

Occupying the basement of the iconic Georges Building in the CBD, The George on Collins is an upmarket, all-day venue where Southeast Asian flavours and contemporary techniques come together in a stylish, heritage-listed space that’s primed for long lunches and group dining.

In collaboration with celebrity chef (and former Masterchef contestant) Khanh Ong, head chef Kingsley Heron has designed a fun, shareable menu heavily inspired by the flavours of Vietnam and Thailand.

Whether you opt for one of the banquets (there are two options to choose from) or curate your own feast from the a la carte menu, dishes might include Massaman croquettes with nuoc cham aioli; Mekong-style braised lamb ribs; and succulent pork belly with a Vietnamese slaw and shiso caramel. The glistening prawn and ginger dumplings with XO sauce and fiery Thai-style curries are also highlights.

The cocktail list is a more free-wheeling affair. A spicy Margarita sits alongside the tiki-inspired Mai Tai In The Tropics, mixing two varieties of Havana rum, Malibu coconut liqueur, lime, orgeat, guava, orange and bitters. The same goes for the wine list, which includes Australian, European and even Thai drops.

An interior design firm Hecker Guthrie (Ugly Duckling,East, Foxes Den) sees the walls and ceilings painted a crisp, bright white and punctuated by textured curtains that draw attention towards the softly lit booths.

The main dining area is divided by an imposing granite bar, where diners can perch with a drink or dinner. There’s also privacy if you want it: the venue’s front rooms, booths, lounge area, and drinking and dining sections are all cleverly zoned in naturalistic ways.