Count Me In Any Day…
A few laid back wines is probably my favorite way to end a good weekend, but it doesn’t seem to happen as often as I would like! After a gloomy couple of days the sun finally decided to show it’s face on Sunday afternoon so a friend and I jumped at the opportunity to soak it up whilst catching up over a vino and some food to share.
As we cruised Mornington Main St looking for a seat in the sunshine we stumbled across the Counting House, a newish wine bar situated at the end of Main Street, Mornington (beach end).
This building (full of history) was constructed in 1912 and was originally The Bank of Victoria until 1954. Recently reconverted from the Old Bank Cafe, Brendan (friendly manager) is quick to let you know that they no longer serve coffees….instead house a fantastic range of red, white and sparkling wines with both local and foreign labels to choose from, available by bottle or glass.
In addition to this, they also stock the local brew from the Mornington Peninsula Brewery as well as a number of other beers.
A ‘french’ feeling runs right throughout the venue, with a modern menu offering delectable food in both small and large portions…
Emzy and I couldn’t resist tasting the pork belly with ginger vinegar and witlof as well as a small frites with aoli (I’ll take aoli with anything!) to share. Both meals were beautifully presented and full of flavour (yes, even the fries!) and with two smaller sized meals coming to $24 it was definitely value for money.
Whilst we were visiting in-between meal times and the dining room was free I had a look around… Inside had a rustic and homely feel as they have maintained some historial elements of the building. With whitewashed floors and loads of natural light, it added to the warmth of the venue. Although I didn’t dine on any of the larger meals I browsed both the dinner and lunch menu and noted a range of mouth watering options by executive chef Gavin Ong which included…
Freshly shucked oysters…Gnocchi gratin with blue cheese, walnut and celery…Lamb galette with provencal vegetables… And duck breast with mushroom and chestnut puree, just to name a few, with prices ranging from $18 – $33 per meal.
Counting House is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Sunday but check out their website here for more information on the menu, wine list and upcoming events.
Overall, I fell in love with this place – It’s cruisy feel, fantastic set up, great location, amazing food and most importantly large range of wine won me over, and with indoor and outdoor seating available, this has something for everyone in all weather conditions! So go on, I urge you to pay the Counting House a visit soon…
BCT
Counting House
787 The Esplanade
Mornington
03 5975 2055
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