By Carole Levy
Established as a new star in the Nelson Place dining precinct nearly a year ago, Porters Williamstown celebrates the best of mod-Aus cuisine, yet draws for its menu from the rich diversity of the villages of Europe and the finesse of France to the simplicity of Japan and spice of eastern Asia.
Chef Ryan Lane, who heads up the kitchen, says he’s been in love with the food scene for the past 23 years. He’s learned from London’s best, including during a stint at highly acclaimed six-star Cadogan Hotel.
“I believe in allowing ingredients to shine through without over-complicating them,” Ryan says. “I have a few favourite ingredients – mud crab, eye fillet, chilli, chocolate. I’ve not created a dish featuring all of them….but watch this space!”
The new winter menu has been released, one that revels in seasonal produce. Some beautifully warming dishes have been created, using ingredients such as earthy mushrooms, leeks and parsnips, as well as the finest Aussie seafood, succulent lamb and tender beef. Desserts reach a peak of indulgence and form the perfect finish to a fab meal.
The carefully curated menu is complemented by an impressive drinks selection, with wines chosen by Melbourne’s renowned sommelier, Raul Moreno Yague. Cocktails, another Porters’ specialty, might be enjoyed at the stylish bar where smaller meals and pastries are served.
Porters opens at 6am for breakfast during the week (from 7am on weekends) before introducing the lunch menu, which looks after vegetarian and gluten-free dining.
The lights are dimmed come dinner time, evoking a sense of occasion but with relaxation to the fore. Much attention is paid to comfort and ambience, with concrete floors, squashy chesterfields to sink into, and fabric bucket chairs at well-spaced tables. Timber features add richness and warmth and designer lightfittings shed mellow light.
The sophisticated fitout was designed by owners John and Zoey Porter. The talented duo arrived from East Sussex seven years ago, fell in love with Williamstown and quickly realised it would be their forever home. Porters is their homage to all that’s best about Melbourne’s dining scene.
Zoey says Porters is a place to tap into any time.
“From a nourishing breakfast or brunch, popping in for great coffee, breaking up a day with lunch to sipping cocktails at dinner time, we offer an experience that will be remembered for a long time.
“And, for special occasions, we have a range of options – right up to booking out the entire restaurant.”
Porters, 49 Nelson Place, Williamstown. Inquiries: 9397 1251 or porterswilliamstown.com
