Californian fare may tend to conjure up images of burgers and fries, but Melbourne’s Morris Jones is out to prove that the American state can be far more sophisticated. After closing its doors earlier this year for an image and menu overhaul, the Chapel Street venue is back to entice Melbourne locals and visitors alike with a cross-cultural fusion bar and restaurant. Morris Jones mingles together the flavours of LA and Tokyo together, resulting in a menu that contains everything from sashimi to ribs, and an impressive array of cocktails. Head Chef Matthew Butcher is behind the fare, with dishes that range from Crab Nachos with Uni Queso and Dashi, to leek, tofu and white soy dumplings, paired with mushroom consume and wakame oil. But it’s the drinks that really fly the flag for creativity at this venue. Owner Hayden Burbank has selected a number of specialty tequilas, mescals and sakes to sit alongside Suntory and Kirin on tap. Those after something a little more show-stopping need only look to the cocktail list, containing the Yuzu Pina Colada, the mezcal-based Cali Desert Fire, and the Sake Plum Spritz. Morris Jones 163 Chapel Street, Windsor morrisjones.com.au