A sophisticated Asian fusion restaurant.
Red Spice QV is deservedly famous as far as Melbourne dining is concerned. When it comes to expectations, there’s a clue in the name – most everything on the tantalising menu has a certain zing that will have you hooked from the first bite.
Where to begin? There is a go-to option in the five-spice pork belly, proudly presented as the restaurant’s signature dish. Complete with chilli caramel, apple slaw and black vinegar, it’s a moreish, mouth-watering, must-have lunch.
It’s certainly tough to dispute its title as the premier pick – but what is to be gleaned from the concept of ‘a signature dish’? It would be a huge oversight for any diner at Red Spice QV to ‘favour the best and forget the rest’, noting the sheer quality of the cuisine on offer. The entirety of the restaurant’s menu is deserving of great praise, with the celebration of their delectable pork belly more humble than anything else.
Spice is the name of the game, but even those averse to fiery foods will find it difficult to deny the deliciousness of these dishes. The sticky sweet and sour cumin lamb ribs certainly earn a mention, while for something smaller, the betel leaf with chopped prawn, peanut, pomelo and herbs is a good bet.
You’ve got to love a place that doesn’t leave vegans out in the cold, as well. In fact, Red Spice QV reserves some true taste sensations for vegans – most notably their fried eggplant, served with hot and sour sauce, sesame and Sichuan pepper. Another must-try dish is their smashed green papaya, tomato, snake bean, chilli, peanut and herb salad.
Of course, we’ve barely scratched the surface here looking at the lunch menu, let alone the rest on offer. There’s unique cocktails to experience, an extensive wine list and a delectable dessert menu that mashes traditional and modern Asian flavours together with fine Aussie produce. Suffice to say, you’ll be rushing back for more.
