Previous SlideNext Slide

Banksia is a new neighbourhood restaurant in Caulfield North where chef Nishant Arora (Society, Cutler & Co.)’s fine-dining cred makes a statement on Hawthorn Road.

The globetrotting menu is largely powered by a binchotan-burning charcoal grill. Loddon Valley lamb cutlets come with black-garlic-curry dipping sauce, while a southern-Indian-inspired coconut-and-galangal sauce accompanies John Dory.

Taking inspiration from Italy’s Puglia region is an entree of delicately sliced raw tuna served with stracciatella and a fragrant lemon-myrtle dressing. There’s also a rice-less risotto that subs in barley and celeriac, crowned with a lion’s mane mushroom steak that’s marinated, cooked sous vide and finished on the charcoal.

A dedicated “express” menu – running alongside the regular a la carte offering – makes Banksia a daytime destination as well, with dine-in and takeaway lunch options aplenty. Feeling fresh? Salads include green goddess and panzanella, with proteins to add on. Want a (made-to-order) sandwich? Go hefty with the Reuben. Its smoky beef brisket, sauerkraut and Russian dressing are all house-made.