8th Ave Terrace’s breezy balcony has seen some legendary sessions, but it’s the Hamptons-styled dining room upstairs that should be the foodie’s focus.

With chef Chris Harrington changing the menu monthly, dishes don’t stick around long enough to become signatures, but they certainly leave a lingering impression.

Echo the ocean outlook with scallops hand plucked from Port Phillip Bay. Packed into each pink-rimmed shell is the sweetness of corn puree, salty pop of pork bubble and dash of dashi for that umami element. Move on to earthy duck confit and mushroom tortellini dishing up a herbaceous hit of parsley emulsion, chased by a hint of truffle paste. Pineapple tarte Tatin reframes the spirit of an Aussie summer with creme fraîche gelato and rum syrup to balance all those sweet, toasty caramelised flavours.

Mid-week degustation menus of three or five courses represent the best value.

Beer, wine and spirit drinkers have ample choice, but diners can have a lot of fun with the thoroughly original cocktail list. Sip a suspiciously healthy-looking beetroot blend containing gin and Pimms with a baby carrot resting on the rim, or double up on dessert and down a fig, violet and gin fusion with a sticky dollop of plum jam.

There’s no pretension at 8th Ave Terrace, just plenty of passion – the waitstaff are endearingly excited when delivering the dishes and will wax lyrical if prompted.

Expect a sophisticated culinary offering wrapped in a relaxed packaged befitting its beachside home.

Must-eat dish: Pineapple tarte Tatin, creme fraîche gelato and rum syrup
Instagram: @8thaveterrace