Young George

An experienced duo is behind Young George: chef Melissa Palinkas (ex-The Cabin) and Susan Whelan (ex-Mash Brewing, The Rose & Crown Hotel) at the front-of-house.

The building was previously known as the Wine Store. The duo has further built on its already formidable reputation. The bottle-shop section still exists, but the new name serves as a reminder that this is a place where food is just as important.

From the wood-fired oven, expect dishes such as mutton ribs; roasted spatchcock; and true to the East Freo locale, a good serve of the sea with octopus and cuttlefish.

The wine list has a grip on what’s hot, from the natural and low intervention likes of Ochota Barrels (Basket Ranges, Adelaide Hills), Dormilona (Margaret River) and Si Vintners (Margaret River). Cocktails nod to the classic and the beer list rounds up local and international drops from Eagle Bay to Schlenkerla.

George Street has been at the centre of the East Freo community since Federation, and the refreshed Young George retains those heritage features in its old-corner-store location, while still being a modern, light and laid-back local.