Already at the height of Melbourne’s dining scene, Vue de Monde has raised itself even higher, to level 55 of Melbourne´s iconic Rialto. Rest assured, though, that Shannon Bennett’s distinctively imaginative cuisine remains a spectacle to rival his restaurant’s all-encompassing view. The name literally translates to ‘view of the world’ and represents Bennett’s imaginative and ambitious view of the world through food and wine.
Chef Shannon Bennett has held the coveted title of three chef hats for the last three years, receiving widespread acclaim and international recognition as one of Australia’s best chefs. In 2007 it achieved a plethora of top honours, taking out the Restaurant and Catering Australia’s Restaurant of the Year and Best Fine Dining award, Gourmet Traveller’s Restaurant of the Year, The Age Good Food Guide’s Restaurant of the Year and a number 71 ranking in Restaurant Magazine UK’s Top 100 list. It has since dropped out of the World Top 100 list but still maintains 3 Good Food Guide chef’s hats and 3 Gourmet Traveller stars.
Diners can opt for the a la carte or degustation menu, each full of exciting flavour and texture combinations all exquisitely plated. Vue de Monde attempts to create a dinning experience that cannot be replicated at home. The menu is ultimately based on French style cuisine but with creative, playful and unique interpretations. The service is meticulous and an extensive international and local wine list serves some great matches.
Touches of imaginative décor add to the sense of an alice in wonderlanddining experience. Pendant bulbs and neon art glow moodily over charcoal coloured tables and kangaroo hide chairs while polished service keeps things at a gentle but efficient hum.
An open kitchen ramps up the theatre, as does the chefs’ balancing act of artful whimsy and classical attention to detail. A gleaming black lobby welcomes guests and sets the scene for this dark, moody restaurant.
The venue may have changed over the years but Vue de Monde continues to deliver classically-inspired French cuisine, combined with impeccable service.
