Melbourne, Australia: The Colonial Tramcar / by George Geary

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant:

http://www.tramrestaurant.com.au

Going back in time.. We had reservations for the luncheon. You arrive at a train stop with about 50 others. In a few minutes prior to your designated time, you hear a click-ity clack on the tracks and up comes from around the corner 4 restored Victorian train cars in beautiful Burgundy and brass. The inside were plush and the feel of turning back the clock.  You spend about 2 hours on the tramcar drinking anything that a full bar would have (they love you to enjoy the local wines of the region), and hot rolls out of the oven. The two servers introduce themselves and also the chef for your car. While you are riding around the city of Melbourne you can see out to the busy streets but the windows are tinted so nobody can see you.

If you get to the wonderful city of Melbourne make a reservation months in advance like we did as they sell out.  From our ship we were the only two on board. They have dinner and late night seating’s also.

Here is the menu for Lunch Service.

Appetizer:

Hummus dip: A smooth blend of chickpea and tahini with a hint of mint, served with crisp lavosh

Roasted Red Capsicum Dip: Fresh roasted capsicum blended with Australian cream cheese and tapenade, served with golden baked water crackers

Entrée:

Duck Terrine: Tender confit duck terrine wrapped in prosciutto, accompanied by a wild berry relish and cornichons.

or

Smoked Salmon & Avocado: Smoked Tasmanian salmon and avocado mousse, dressed with baby capers, red onion and tomato salsa

Main

Grilled Chicken Breast: Marinated in herbs on a bed of sautéed spinach served with seasonal vegetables and a rich reduction

or

Victorian Farmed Eye Fillet of Beef: Paired with a rosemary and thyme scallop potato, fresh seasonal vegetables, onion marmalade and red wine jus

Cheese Tasting Plate

Chef’s Selection of Local Cheese

Matched with a quince paste, golden crisp water crackers, and a spic

ed fruit