Near the Alexandra Parade end of Brunswick St lies The Cider House . Featuring 15 independently produced local and international craft ciders on tap, along with over 40 bottled varieties to choose from and while the emphasis is on cider as the name suggests, there are craft beers, wine, spirits and cocktails on offer. The philosophy behind The Cider House is one of relaxed shared dining, where those with special dietary requirements, including vegan and gluten free can order directly from the menu and omnivores are also catered for. “No food envy” says co-owner Ben Day. “Everyone can co- exist in the one place.”
All the ciders on offer are gluten free and patrons can dine freely without time restrictions from a menu boasting local, organic and biodynamic sourced produce, such as the apple cider vinegar. Head Chef Rhys Langtree imparts an Asian, American and Mediterranean influence on the menu, which is a representation of Aussie cuisine. A long with the menu to cater for a variety of palates is the influence of nutritionist Julie Daniluks seen in the raw vegan dishes or “Meals that Heal” on offer.
Giant Oak Barrels lie near the bar, the lighting is subdued, and the atmosphere is earthy, relaxed and comfortable. First up is a full flavoured braised pork and lemongrass steamed bun, complemented by hot sriracha sauce and washed down with a crisp, fresh Gypsy Pear Cider from the Huon Valley in Tasmania. The Cider House Mezze Plate follows and features creamy Persian fetta, smoky baba ganoush, koftas and falafel. Red Curry Fried Chicken wings with coriander, mint, chilli and black pepper served with nahm jim is a highlight. The chicken is juicy and tender, with a crisp outer layer and is washed down with a full bodied, still Old Rosie Scrumpy Cider. Cider is paired with food perfectly. For a palate cleanser the farmers market salad consisting of apple, walnuts, rocket and spinach with dijon mustard and flax seed oil goes down a treat, and is also a “meal that heals.”
The Crying Tiger, a char grilled, rare, tender grass fed porterhouse steak, marinated in lemongrass, ginger, garlic, kaffir lime and chilli and served with a hot chilli and piquant lime dipping sauce, is robust and leaves one sated. For those wishing to extend their evening, upstairs there’s a Secret Cider Garden and Cocktail lounge, which features DJ’s every Saturday night.
The Cider House offers something for everyone; a relaxed, communal dining experience, catering for those with special dietary requirements and those who hanker for a good ole parma or burger with chips, paired with cider.
Address: 386-388 Brusnwick St, Fitzroy, 3065 Tram 112.
Ph: 9415 6142
Hours: Tues-Thurs 4pm-Late, Fri-Sun 12pm-Late