They say good wine bar restaurants are hard to find…but are they?

Both integral members of the vibrant Westgarth strip in Northcote, Denn Bar and Restaurant and Ember Lounge and Tapas are situated just north of the recently renovated Westgarth cinema. Having just passed its second anniversary since opening in February 2005, Denn is a relaxed and modern eatery. Next door is Ember Lounge and Tapas, a great place to enjoy a drink in ambient and sophisticated surrounds.

Denn is deceivingly spacious with a large downstairs dining area suitable for functions (set menus are available), and an upper level open on weekends. The restaurant is artfully lit, featuring an art-deco chandelier over the bar, and wooden fittings and warm tonal décor contribute to the relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The upstairs area has a cosy feel, with soft lighting, comfortable couches, retro cinema seats and balconies overlooking the downstairs bar and diners.

Denn offers a modern Mediterranean menu that caters for all tastes and is inexpensively priced. Italian influences shine through with the wide range of wood-fired pizzas and pastas. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available.

An extensive and well-priced wine-list complements the menu, and features quality Australian and international wines. Desserts change regularly, though the home-made tiramisu is a house specialty.

Denn is open on the weekends for breakfast, and options include the Big Denn Brekky, and the delicious Middle Eastern pancakes. A great place for a winter breakfast is under the skylights facing the bar, a spot that catches plenty of sunlight. As well as seating on the footpath on High Street, diners can sit in the rear covered courtyard that adjoins sister establishment Ember Lounge.

Ember Lounge and Tapas is the most recent addition to the busy Westgarth strip, and a welcome one with its intimate design and refined furnishings. It is worth stopping by to view the many local artworks displayed around the venue that can be purchased at any time.

As well as offering a broad range of wines, Ember also sports a wide array of local and imported beers. For those willing to try something different there are boutique beers available, and the cocktails on offer are also competitively priced. Tapas and antipasto are on offer, as well as wood-fired pizza and pasta. In the winter months come in and try the soup and curry of the day.

Denn is open weekdays noon until late, and weekends from 10am.
Phone Denn on 94821231, and Ember on 94824853.