This new moody Balaclava eatery has quickly become a popular haunt for its exquisite Chinese-inspired dishes – now it’s giving you access to members-only tables. 

 

Inside a curvaceous, heritage-listed art deco building, Moonhouse is an alluring bistro from the team behind some of Melbourne’s best contemporary Asian restaurants, including Tokyo Tina and Hanoi Hannah. Its modern fit-out mirrors the building’s exterior, with curves all over, elegant burgundy booths, glistening chandeliers, and red glass shielding the kitchen.

 

Expect contemporary spins on traditional Cantonese dishes; a dedicated wok section full of moreish noodles; and elevated cocktails, including a Negroni made with Melbourne Gin Company dry gin and served with a scoop of refreshingly bitter orange sorbet. Plus, an almost entirely Australian selection of wine and excellent tap beers.

 

Our top picks from the menu include the re-imagined sesame-crusted prawn toast with prawn bisque dipping sauce; XO sticky rice with mushroom, lotus leaf and soft soy-braised eggplant; and Duck Ceremony, a half roast duck with plum salt, hoisin and pancakes.

 

Every day of the week, Moonhouse is giving us access to tables that have been made available for the first time through Broadsheet Access. 

 

Get a table for two, at 7pm on Tuesday, 6.15pm from Wednesday to Friday, and 6pm on Saturday and Sunday, reserved just for Access members.

 

You can book 30 days in advance (and a minimum of two days prior) of your desired booking date.

 

Love Moonhouse? Check out our table at Vietnamese favourites New Quarter and Firebird, also from the Commune Group.