The flavours and colours of Vesper are inspired by the Mediterranean islands from Greece to the Cote D’Azur, and Balearic Islands. Owners Marlane and Duncan Fraser-Smith spent the past 10 years in Dubai, returning to open Vesper with Italian-born chef Francesco Castellana during Melbourne’s lockdowns. Francesco has had international and local successes that include New York’s Per Se and Melbourne’s Vue de Monde.

This new ultimate residents’ eatery in the neighbourhood hub of South Yarra whisks your senses across the azure waters of the Mediterranean islands, with plates full of flavour and vibrant colour influenced by the islands of Greece, Spain, Italy, Portugal and the south of France. Located in a terrace on fashionable Toorak Road, Vesper combines modern European charm and elegance with a contemporary approach to polished dining.

As you move through to the beautiful Green Room at the rear, you will experience one of South Yarra’s best-kept secrets…you never know who you are going to meet there! Features a private bar and dining oasis opening up to a delightful Tuscan courtyard with fountain, cascading greenery, and French provincial touches.

The Menu

Function Number 1235

Out of Lock Down Dinner @ Vesper

Wine & Food Masters: Janet Barton and Mike Gigante 

President: Jenny Parkes  

Chef: Francesco Castellana

Wednesday, 17th November 2021

2007 Leclerc-Briant Brut Millesime, Champagne, France

Sardines on toast with mojo verde 

Chickpeas panisse

2017 Philippe Foreau Domaine du Clos Naudin, Vouvray Demi-Sec, Loire, France

2015 Gunther Steinmetz Wintricher Geierslay sur Lie Riesling Trocken, Mosel, Germany

Hiramasa kingfish with spicy citrus salad

2010 Domaine Louis Moreau Les Clos, Grand Cru Chablis, France 

2010 Jean-Marc Pillot, Vergers Clos St Marc, 1er Cru Chassagne Montrachet, Burgundy, France 

Sweet corn ravioli, pea, harissa & preserved lemon

2010 Domaine Alain Burguet Les Rouges du Dessus, 1er Cru Vosne-Romanée, Burgundy, France  

2005 Domaine Gros Frere et Soeur Village Vosne Romanee, Burgundy, France 

Herb stuffed chicken breast, olives & melitzanosalata

Seasonal salad

NV Henriques & Henriques Malvasia 10 year old, Madeira, Portugal

 Torta caprese with date ice cream