The Recreation

14.5/20Updated September 22, 2026,first published November 18, 2024The Recreation Bistro & BottleshopEuropean$$Virtuoso pub bistro combines classic kitchen technique with relaxed, polished service.Wine fiends, be warned. The cellar at this reimagined corner hotel, with its exposed brick walls and cosy wine-bar entry, is stocked with gems and curiosities. If you venture beyond the intriguing single-page “short list” (hello, Patagonian pinot noir), a “little grower” champagne or a Suze-spiked Americano may be needed to keep thirst at bay while browsing the full tome.Happily, a co-owner is typically at hand to pour wine at the table or decant a big-ticket Barolo. Stonking wedges of terrine – a mix of quail, turkey and pork – make a robust lunch or entree; a main of crackle-skinned barramundi fillet is lapped by herby buttermilk-caper sauce.Juicy half-chicken, lightly smoky from the wood grill, might come slicked with sherry glaze and vivid romesco. Cheese or dessert? Sumptuous whipped Brillat-Savarin “cheesecake” with poached quince has you covered both ways while you interrogate the dessert wines.Good to know: Loved what you drank? The Rec bottle shop is here for you.Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.Sign upLast visited: April 2026More:Fitzroy NorthThe Recreation Bistro & BottleshopMelbourneEuropeanOutdoor diningAccepts bookingsSeparate barBYOFamily-friendlyGood for business lunchGood for groupsLicensedVegetarian-friendlyWheelchair accessPrivate dining roomPet-friendlyGood for a first dateCommunity hubLong lunchRestaurantBottle shopReviewsGood Food GuideFrom our partners