Auterra: Where Snacks Steal the Show
If youβve ever left a fine-dining experience most impressed by the snacks, Auterra is the wine bar for you. Situated on High Street in Armadale, itβs the second venture from chef Clinton McIver, who opened the elegantly understated Amaru just across the road in 2016. Before that, he was sous chef at Vue de Monde.
Finger Food, Refined
McIver and head chef Steven Harry have created a sophisticated finger-food menu featuring around 15 items, with most dishes priced under $20. These bite-sized snacks are more playful than those at Amaru, yet maintain the same standard and philosophy. Expect savoury spanner-crab doughnuts with salted cucumber, aged ComtΓ© Γ©clairs with pear, panko-crumbed king prawns with kimchi on poppyseed milk buns, boudin blanc hotdogs with Japanese pickles, and XO mussels served in pairs. Thereβs also a tender smoked kangaroo tartare with anchovy on rye, and for dessert, an earthy shiitake mushroom sundae.
A Wine List Worth Exploring
The drinks list is ever-evolving, with a strong focus on lesser-known producers. It has been curated by venue manager and sommelier Jenna Phillpott (formerly of Dinner by Heston and Vue de Monde) along with group sommelier Duncan Peppiatt. The list is organised by appellation and explores a variety of styles and textures from different regions. Thereβs also an impressive, splurge-worthy champagne selection with bottles over $500, alongside more accessible by-the-glass options starting around $12.
Classic Cocktails, Elevated Atmosphere
Three cocktails are available: a classic Negroni; a fresh, aromatic vodka-based drink with ginger, lemongrass, and lemon aspen; and a blend of rum, Lillet Blanc, and chamomile.
Design That Reflects the Land
Melbourne architect Iva Foschia designed the interior using a graduating colour palette inspired by terroirs from around the world. The shades progress from musk to burgundy as you move through the space toward the courtyard, which really shines during warmer months. The main dining room seats 35, with half the venue reserved for walk-ins. Upstairs, there is a private dining room accommodating up to a dozen guests.