"Next to The Southbank Theatre so handy for coffee, cake ,light snacks, meals before the theatre. Service was friendly and efficient"
We have been regular diners at Blondie before shows at MTC and the Melbourne Recital Centre. Recently the menu changes have been disappointing but we kept going back for the crispy chicken. Alas, they have changed the menu again, and the crispy chicken is no longer available. The 'replacement' nori crumbed chicken tenders are nowhere near as nice - black (because of the nori) and no sauce. The introduction of half serves is a good idea - only if there are enough interesting options. There seem to be few dishes with sauce, making the rice somewhat redundant. Also, why remove fries from the menu - always a good choice for a little bit extra. I know a number of people who also regularly dine at...
Blonde Bar is a ideal location if you are going to the Recital Centre or an MTC theatre production. Tram stop right out front (No. 1 tram) or short walk from trams on St Kilda Rd. Essential to book and do allow enough time before your show. We went on a Friday evening and the kitchen was overwhelmed. We only just got our simple meals in time (Allowing just an hour was insufficient ).The food was pleasant, but unexceptional. The Asian fusion menu is based on additional side dishes, so don't expect ordering a main course will be a complete meal. For the location the prices are OK, but with side dishes it adds up. Always a vegan or vegetarian option, but only one, except if you add side dishes...
Have been to Blondie many times before and always enjoyed the experience ~ but not this time!The menu has changed and it seems there is no cook or chef in the kitchen. I can think of no other explanation for the inedible food presented. 2 dishes were returned to the kitchen and I noted a while later that another table returned one of the same dishes. The Lamb Shoulder was edible and although we ordered a large serve for sharing there was only a small bowl of rice. And the kitchen was not able to wreck some mixed green salad from a packet with a drizzle of bottled dressing. I am genuinely astonished that anyone in the hospitality industry could allow such food to be served.
Have been here twice in 2 months. The first time the experience was outstanding. So we returned. This time we waited 50 minutes for soup. We chased the order up with two different waiters and neither was apologetic for the slow service. When it eventually arrived the quality was poor and unlike what we have experienced previously from Blondie. Will need to think carefully whether we'd come here again. Pity as its very convenient on concert nights!
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What has happened to the crispy chicken and fries that we all loved. Gone ! The Blondie menu is now, in a word, unappetising. The halumi 'chips" were extraordinarily salty and we sent back the new chicken fried tenders that were like trying to eat rocks (with virtually no chicken under the coating). The lamb was ok. We used to go there at least once a month before theatre/ concerts etc. Now , no more.
I've been here a few times before a show at the Sumner. It's a cosy spot with good interesting share plates. A great place when you feel like some well-prepared dishes without the pomp and ceremony of a fine dinning venue. Make sure you book ahead of time - it gets busy with theatre patrons. And if you're deciding between Blondie Bar or Script, I would go Blondie Back every time.
Busy place, definitely need to book. OK for the entrees and mains, pricey!! But the best was the signature Flower Pot dessert. Have it to share with two. Delicious Please be warned that they serve as they prepare - this means - have no expectation your entree will arrive first or that your side will come with your main. But enjoy the different style.
I was pleased that I booked on mine at the last moment. The place was packed because the food and wine are good. This was our third visit in the last few years and were not disappointed. The dishes were fresh and tasted good and so healthy too. The steamed vegetables were a great addition to our main choices once again.
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Live jazz, good food and friendly service made for a nice relaxed evening before a gig at the melbourne recital centre. I would reccomend booking as they were fully booked out when we arrived but the outdoor area is nice and kept warm with numerous heaters.
Next to The Southbank Theatre so handy for coffee, cake ,light snacks, meals before the theatre. Service was friendly and efficient
