One of Bristol’s favourite restaurants is making a long anticipated revival after more than a decade.
For 15 years Melbournes was an institution on Park Street, and was highly regarded as one of the best and most successful restaurants in the area.
After selling the business in the 1990s, co-owner Tony Wilshaw is to re-launch Melbournes BYO at the Anchor in Ham Green, alongside business partner Leigh Iles.
The business, formerly operating as Mezze Restaurants, will undergo refurbishment before opening on August 20, with Melbournes Restaurant launching in early September.
It will also boast a new pizza kitchen ready for the launch of a pizza and grill menu, as well as a take-away service.
Tony said: “Quality seasonal food, a sensibly priced two and three course menu, along with a policy of bring your own wine, was the recipe on which Melbournes built its success.
“I suppose 15 years is a long time to wait before returning with a successful concept but I feel now is the right time.
“Diners revelled in the fact that at Melbournes you could bring your own wine without a corkage charge, and we will be reviving this BYO policy.
“The bar area of Melbournes will offer a relaxed pizza and grill dining concept. Although this area is not BYO, prices will be very affordable with most main meals starting at £6.50.
“With the installation of a new pizza kitchen and take-away service to run alongside a relaxed and stylish dining experience, we hope we will have a winning combination.”
Melbournes’ bring your own wine policy will operate in its restaurant area alongside fixed priced menus.
Old favourites from the Melbournes repertoire are set to return to the menu with the inclusion of more contemporary Asian and Mediterranean influenced dishes.
As in the past Melbournes will not have any hidden extras, with starters accompanied by bread and all mains accompanied by potatoes and vegetables at no extra cost.
To celebrate the revival of Melbournes, diners can receive an opening offer of 50 per cent off any pizza between August 20 and August 23, from 5pm-9.30pm.
To find out more about Melbournes, follow them on Twitter at @melbournesbyo.