Vue de monde
Originally housed in a quirky terrace building in Drummond Street Carlton, Vue de monde relocated in 2005 to the historic Normanby Chambers in Melbourne’s central business district. Evolving from a classical French style restaurant with a niche following, the move signified a shift in direction with a focus on theatrics and the dedication to the dining experience as a whole. Vue de monde received many awards in its original location including chef owner Shannon Bennett being awarded the Australian Gourmet Treveller's inaugural 'Best New Talent' Award in 2003. It was however following the move to the new premises that Vue de monde achieved widespread critical acclaim and international recognition including an unprecedented 19/20 from The Age Good Food Guide.
In June 2011 Vue de monde relocated again, this time to the 55th floor of Melbourne’s iconic Rialto building, challenging the notion that great dining cannot exist at great heights and finally bringing a ‘view’ to the Vue de monde experience. A pared back, sophisticated space, the design reflects on Australia’s history, referencing Melbourne’s glory days during the gold rush and other cultural icons such as the out back dunny! A stunning neon art piece by seminal conceptual artist Joseph Kosuth interpreting one of Charles Darwin’s sketches forms the back drop for the restaurant together with sweeping views across the city and beyond.
The menu at Vue de monde has evolved from its original, classical roots to a lighter handed, more natural approach. Where in the past we looked to Europe for ingredients and to the masters of classical cuisine, today we celebrate what is on our door stop choosing beautiful, heirloom and organic vegetables and fruits and allowing them shine and to stand proudly on their own. Our meat and seafood is local and sustainable. Our relationships are directly with growers and farmers and our inspiration is driven by simple ingredients produced with care and dictated by the seasons.
We reference our past and the history of our country combining techniques used by generations past together with modern culinary techniques. All this is aimed at presenting beautiful food that appeals to the senses and is revered not for the perception of luxury but for the honesty and integrity of its presentation. Our focus is derived from the desire to evoke emotion and thought through simplicity and purity. To present a balanced and satisfying experience that is a gentle progression of flavors with a sense of theatre, a sense of fun and sometimes a sense of irony…
As a continuation and extension of the quest to be as responsible and logical as possible, sustainability philosophies under pin the operation and design of the space. The large, completely open kitchen employs the latest in energy efficient technology. Reclaimed and recycled materials are used where possible throughout.
The additions of the Lui Bar and Vue de monde Events at Rialto complete the Vue de monde experience in a way not possible in previous locations. The Lui Bar adds the opportunity for pre and after dinner drinks in stylish and intimate surrounds. The custom designed events space provides for Vue de monde style experiences for larger private occasions.