Melbourne’s The Royce hotel reopened back in February, bringing a new level of luxury to St Kilda. Now, it’s time to welcome the venue’s showstopping drinking and dining destination, Showroom Bar.

It’s about more than just imbibing, this is a place to lounge into the plush mauve-hued chairs, lean on the marble-topped bar and have a grand old time under the original vaulted ceiling while illuminated by the very flattering, light of a low-hanging chandelier. In short, the space is beautiful.

It also boasts a considered cocktail menu. Rather than just a list of drinks, the concoctions will be defined by flavour profiles.

On a balmy evening embrace the effervescence of Berries In The City, with strawberry-infused vodka, Pierre Ferrand, cranberry, lime and gin-aged orange bitters. Looking for a late-night pick-me-up? Sherry and Spice has you covered with piquant notes thanks to spiced rum, Pedro Ximenes and cherry bitters.

The food is also worthy of the glamorous setting. Executive head chef, Pawan Dutta, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton Doha, has crafted an all-day dining menu influenced by the hotel’s British heritage.

Small bites include chicken liver pâté served with pickled cherries or mushroom and stilton tartlet. Starters span an almond and garlic gazpacho to a smoked beef tartare to chargrilled Fremantle octopus.

If you’re settling in for the night and fancy something more substantial, tuck into steaming pots of Victorian black mussels in a seafood bisque, butternut squash Wellington or the always popular steak frites.

The Royce understands that travellers rate hotels on their club sandwich, which is why The Royce Club is listed under the Comforts category of the menu. Diners can expect a three-layered chicken concoction created with toasted sourdough spread with home-made mayonnaise and layers of crispy streaky bacon, all topped with an oozing fried egg. Served with shoestring fries, naturally.

For those who really want a taste of luxury, step up to the Taittinger Champagne and Polanco Oscietra Caviar bar. It’s complete with all the trimmings – freshly made blinis, crème fraîche and crispy potatoes.

Royce Hotel general manager, Nick McLennan, says Showroom Bar is a place to escape the ordinary. This isn’t just about good food and service, but about indulgence and flamboyance.

“We want our guests to be immersed in the theatrics of hospitality and whisked away to a fantastical place with exceptional food and flowing drinks, even if it’s just for one evening,” he says.

Showroom Bar, The Royce 
379 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Mon – Sun, 12pm-late
roycehotel.com.au

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