Description: Talk about a restaurant with a view! The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is exactly what it sounds like — a restaurant on a restored 1920s era Melbourne City Tram. Sounds like Victoria Station, huh? Not even close, because this tramcar is still on the tracks, still running about town. For three hours, you can dine in absolute luxury as the city's parks, monuments, streetscapes and people roll by.
The whole idea of a rolling restaurant is fun in and of itself, but the food, prepared by a master chef in a tiny kitchen right on board, is exquisite. The menu changes regularly to take advantage of seasonal fare. The night we went, we began with a glass of champagne and a cream, liver and cognac pate as our appetizer. The entrees (what we would call an appetizer back in the States) were a shellfish soup or a berry pancake topped with small fillets of pepper crusted kangaroo, served with tomato chutney. The main course (our entree at home — you getting all this?) of chicken fillet or prime beef fillet, were quite good, but unremarkable. A fine selection of Australian cheeses and fruits was served before a dessert of white and dark chocolate terrine with cointreau-marinated strawberries. Beer, liquor, coffee, tea and a fine selection of Victorian wines are all included in the
prix fixe meal. In true Aussie fashion, the meal ended with a local port as a nightcap.
The car itself is beautifully appointed, and specially fitted with stabilizers, ensuring a smooth ride through town. The service was impeccable and friendly, and we especially enjoyed being close enough to the table next to us to share conversation with a couple of Melburnians.
As you would expect, Friday and Saturday are more expensive than other nights, so you can save $11 per person by going on a weeknight. Lunch is also an option, and there is an Early Dinner option that is a three-course meal lasting just 1 1/2 hours. I say go for the full experience though, and do the five-course late dinner. For Americans, the exchange rate makes it about the same price as a very fine dinner back home, and the novelty of it will give you plenty to remember.
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