Syracuse - Melbourne

This is a roomy and classy eating place. The food is well cooked and well presented. In the last few years, the kitchen and table staff were extra friendly and helpful but the recent service has lacked the personal touch.

Syracuse is a regular place for business lunches and coffee but tonight was the first time l took my wife for dinner. We had oysters and brushetta for entree and John Dory and Duck for mains. These were all beautifully prepared and presented and tasted amazing but then we ordered the Syramasu for dessert. Wow. We visit Melbourne regularly from Newcastle and my wife said that Syracuse is now our place. That comment is as good as it gets.

I went there with my family and friends. We found that this place is a good size not too big not too small. The menu is not too large. Food was amazing. Service was good. Only downside was it took too long for foods to come out. 15 mins for Entree, 35 mins for mains and 20 mins for deserts.

After having been blown away by one of Phillipa Sibley's amazing desserts at her previous restaurant, I was keen to visit Syracuse to see if lightning could strike twice - and I am happy to say it can!!Firstly, the restaurant itself is a lovely and comfortable space. High ceilings, a mix of lovely old furniture, wine bottles on every sill, in every corner & crevice, chandeliers etc. The menu is not large, but beautifully thought out, cleverly constructed and absolutely delicious. And then - there was the service - we asked for a glass of wine to match each of our three courses and the staff had lots of time to discuss it with us and make some excellent recommendations. I think the interaction with the friendly staff was probably the highlight of the evening (that and Phillipa's amazing desserts, once again).This is a great restaurant that would be suitable for couples, a small business meeting, family dinner or a night out with friends. Or go just for a couple of glasses of wine and some snacks (but do yourself a favour and make sure you return sometime to have dinner).

Strangely empty. Very good menu all food beautifully prepared. Very pleasant service. Good wine choices and nice cocktails.