49 Rathdowne Street
Carlton
Victoria 3053
Good place to take a date:
10/10
If you’re a hopeless romantic or fancy yourself as an old-fashioned English gentleman, Epocha will have them head over heels; the writing’s on the wall. No really, it is. Simple but charming décor greets you as you enter this Victorian terrace. Feel like royalty as you are presented with delicious food served on china plates, it’s all very elegant. But beyond the airs and graces the European cuisine makes for a fantastic dining experience that will thrill you and your date. Plus, as most of the dishes are designed to share, you can get close and personal as you tuck into your meal. Just remember your table manners. Service will make the occasion that bit more special, who will make you feel at home and cater to any surprises you may have in store…
Epocha Melbourne
Good place to meet for a first date:
9/10
Trying to suss them out before going on a dinner date? Epocha is a popular spot for lunch, so you won’t feel out of place in an empty restaurant if you opt to meet during the day for something more casual. In the summer, eat al fresco with a view of Carlton Gardens, and use people watching as a conversation starter if the entrees haven’t already got you talking! Not a likely place to pick up a date, it’s none the less a charming choice for first dates in Melbourne in a setting as romantic as a Jane Austen novel.
Average age:
Whilst Epocha might feel like a step back in time, the clientele are far from antique. With chintzy crockery making a comeback and a firm consensus developing that good restaurants can’t get away with below-standard service, Epocha leads the way. Blend in with the ambience and go for a classy, stylish look for your Melbourne date at this refined restaurant. But don’t worry, you don’t need to brush up on your poetry and English literature.
Time of review:
Open for lunch and dinner, Epocha tends to be packed around the clock with diners eager to sample European flavours and get the star treatment from the excellent staff. As a result, it’s a reliable choice for Melbourne dating throughout the week. Except Mondays, where you’ll find yourself sat on the steps of a closed restaurant.
Average cost of a meal and a drink:
Considering that you are paying for impeccable service, hand-picked imported wines and the finest quality ingredients, Epocha isn’t over-priced. The sharing menu costs $68, whilst the dishes vary greatly in price. And if you’ve just had pay day and you want to impress that drop-dead girl or handsome man then it’s worth every penny, surely?
Type of cuisine:
Melt in your mouth fish dishes and succulent hunks of meat grace the menu of Epocha, with lots of sharing dishes big and small to choose from. If you just fancy a drink and nibbles, the snack selection sounds as irresistible as it tastes, with an extensive selection of European wines to accompany all of the food. Don’t miss the Sunday roast on a weekend, a great alternative to evening dates in Melbourne if you want wholesome food and good company on this day of rest.
Final word:
For all those firm believers that romance isn’t dead, Epocha is the place for you. Even if the thought of a rom-com makes you a little queezy, you’d find it hard to fault the food and service at this brilliant restaurant.