Chef’s Guide: Best places to eat and drink in Glen Iris

From authentic Indian curries, fresh sushi and mod-Asian brunch — here are the best spots to eat and drink in Glen Iris, according to Commune Group executive chef Anthony Choi.

From authentic Indian curry, fresh sushi rolls and a mod-Asian brunch — here are the best spots to eat and drink in Glen Iris, according to Commune Group executive chef Anthony Choi.

SINGH’S BALA DA DHABA

Curry is one thing I choose to leave to the people of Indian heritage to make. Not to say I can’t make it, but no curry tastes better than one made with the hands and culinary lineage of an Indian chef. The menu has a wide range of dishes from across many parts of India, my go to is chicken tikka masala or their lamb madras. Great vegan and vego options as well.

1455 Malvern Rd

LEO’S FINE FOODS

This is an artisanal and providore haven. It’s gourmet in every sense, from their selection of olive oils to their salt flakes. There’s an ambience like I’ve never experienced in a food store before; the smell of freshly squeezed oranges and tango music. You can get your fancy bits and bobs for a posh nosh or even grab a delicious already-made meal.

2 Summerhill Rd

That Greek Tavern in Glen Iris. Picture: Instagram.

Sozia Japanese restaurant. Picture: David Crosling.

THAT GREEK TAVERN

This warm and cosy spot offers all the Greek classics. The selection of dips, char-grilled meats and seafood platters are most satisfying, perfect for sharing with a bottle of wine. The staff are always friendly and make you feel right at home.

1438 Malvern Rd

BABA SUS

This Asian-inspired little gem offers all-day breakfast and lunch options that all come with a modern Asian twist. Their signature go-to brekkie item is the Hong Kong egg waffles with vanilla custard, green tea ice cream and berry compote.

15 Bardolph St

MILTON WINE SHOP

This is my favourite local, it’s so homely and has a great rustic, relaxed vibe. The staff have extensive sommelier knowledge. They are licensed to takeaway, but we prefer to enjoy this gem inside and partake in its communal seating style, or take a seat in the great courtyard on a warm night.

1427 Malvern Rd

Hong Kong waffles at Baba Sus in Glen Iris. Picture: Instagram.

Milton Wine Bar in Glen Iris. Picture: Instagram.

SOZAI

This is a simple suburban Japanese restaurant and sushi bar. It’s not fancy but does what it does well and with fresh ingredients, which in my opinion is the most integral element to quality Japanese. Sozai is great for a midweek eat out.

1221 High St, Armadale

NEON TIGER

Great local gem set against some really cool and inviting modern Australian interior architecture. The signature dish is the shakshouka which is eggs poached Arabic style with spices of the Middle East. The smoothie list needs a special mention, too.

1252 Malvern Rd, Malvern

Neon Tiger Cafe. Picture: Instagram.

Riserva Wine Bar in Malvern East. Picture: Instagram.

RISERVA

If you’re after somewhere uber-cool with a chic pan-European vibe that’s also not a trip to the city or the Chapel St precinct, this is your place. Riserva serves local and Europe-imported produce and pours an extensive wine list.

395 Wattletree Rd, Malvern East

Anthony Choi, Commune Group executive chef.

FYI: Modern Vietnamese restaurant Hanoi Hannah v II at is at 306 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick and 186 HIgh St, Windsor (Express Lane). hanoihannah.com.au