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Phoenix Brewery

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LenR
LenR
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4 out of 5
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1
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Phoenix Brewery

  • November 3, 2007
  • Rated 4 of 5 by LenR from Townsville, Australia
Phoenix Brewery

This is a very interesting place for a meal or snack anytime during the day. I expected a brewery but what I found was a dining experience which no doubt is unique within the city of Ballarat. Owner/Operator Simon Coghlan has created a versatile space which incorporates formal dining, private functions and a fresh metro bar style. An extensive wine list by both bottle and glass accompanies the menu of modern Australian cuisine.

This restaurant has an interesting history of its own. The new restaurant has risen from the ashes of the old Phoenix Brewery generations after its establishment in 1854 by Simon's great, great grandfather. With 150 years of local brewing tradition in the family, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Ballarat one-day has a beer it can once again call its own.

The Phoenix Brewery is located in the historic Camp Street arts precinct in Central Ballarat opposite the University of Ballarat city campus. It opens for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday from 10am till late and on Saturday and Sunday from 5pm till late.

There are a la carte blackboard specials which are changed daily, an extensive local wine list to buy by the glass, and quality coffee and organic teas. On street level, the wall-sized gabled windows can open to create the perfect leaning spot for a glass of pinot gris at dusk during the warm afternoons of autumn and summer. Benches and chairs on the footpath cater for those who prefer to dine alfresco on those warmer days and evenings.

I was with a group of about 10 people when we went for lunch so we decided to get a selection of things from the menu and share. That proved to be a good decision and I can now say I have tried about a quarter of the menu. Everything was very good. The pasta was excellent, the fish and other seafood was succulent and the Thai fish cakes were some of the best I have tasted.

The atmosphere was happy, the chatter was loud and clearly all patrons were enjoying their mid-day dining experience. I suspect that some of the city workers were late back to their desks.

With a pronounced European influence, the Phoenix Brewery also offers an introduction to the Spanish concept of tapas, perfect for any time of day. This is just another part of its modern approach to old-fashioned good food & service.

From journal Ballarat Eating and Sleeping

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