The team behind Cordelia take their seafood seriously, so much so that the menu moves with what’s going good in the catch. The evening’s service is often guided by the supplier’s haul, and on any given night that might look like an octopus and merguez skewer to start or a chargrilled whole King George whiting as something to share between tablemates.
Like at its southside sibling venue, Don’s, you can find yourself a reasonably priced glass of wine from a well-considered list along with several sharp cocktail choices, but what you won’t find anywhere else is their off-menu and outrageously sized fish sandwich. Ask nicely and you might well receive.
Here’s owner Alex Gavioli on what to order his light and bright Carlton wine bar, Cordelia.
Got anything light and fresh?
Here at Cordelia, we’re diehard supporters of the long lunch, hence the venue being open from 12pm Wednesday through Saturday. No long lunch would be complete without one (or both) of our oyster offerings on the menu: fresh or torched. Following that, what has quickly become an early crowd favourite: the coral trout crudo with apricot and macadamia.
We’ve always worked under the ethos of wanting to serve anyone who walks through our doors. That means we always stay mindful of who we are able to cater for and how we can make sure that no matter what dietaries someone may have, will they still feel at home, relaxed and cared for.
What if we’re here for a good time, not a long time?
Just like we aim to cater to anyone’s needs, we also love to cater to whatever kind of experience you’re after. Here for a quick work lunch? Perfect. We’ll get you sorted in no time. Stopping for a nightcap? Great, follow us downstairs for a cocktail in our quasi-speakeasy. Just want an afternoon drink in the sun? Stunning. Lets spritz!
We hear there’s a happy meal going on the afternoon menu. Talk us through it.
The happy meal is part of our Little Hours menu, available from 3 until 5pm, Wednesday to Friday. In a time where, somehow, you can’t even wish a meal, we’ve crafted something just right for those craving an afternoon snack, or the perfect pre-dinner dinner. And of course, it comes paired with a ‘little’ half cocktail of your choosing.
You’re serious about seafood at Cordelia. Does the menu depend on the catch?
Absolutely. The menu changes weekly, if not daily, depending on what’s been caught, what looks best, and what’s sustainable to serve at the time. It might sound tricky, but its made easy thanks to our honest, transparent suppliers. Our aim is to create a menu that truly highlights both the produce and the producers; our job is simply to use the best and the freshest.
Is there a drink or dish that captures the Cordelia vibe?
Our cocktail list features three timeless classics: a Martini, a Manhattan, and a Negroni, served straight up or however you like them. But where the personality really shines is in our With Lovesection: the same three cocktails, each reimagined with our own ever-changing twist. A crowd favourite? The Negroni with Love: Dry Gin, Saison Blackcurrant Leaf Amaro and Yzaguirre Blanco Reserva Vermut. To go with it? A perfect pairing: our charred octopus and merguez skewer, served with a saffron aioli and a sprinkle of espelette.
Cordelia, 180 Rathdowne St, Carlton, open 12 noon-9pm Weds-Thurs, 12 noon-11pm, cordelia.place @cordelia.carlton