Ghanem Group has opened its first Melbourne outpost of Blackbird Bar, Dining & Events, marking the award-winning Brisbane venue’s interstate debut.
The new space offers three levels at 66 Flinders Lane on Collins Place, combining a cocktail bar, a split-level dining room, and an exclusive events floor, each tied together by a chandelier suspended over the central staircase.
The cocktails, curated by Ghanem Group beverage manager Aaron Clark, nod to nostalgic Australian flavours, like the Mango & Macadamia (a riff on a Weiss bar), Frosty Fruit, (a playful take on the Pornstar Martini), layered with rhubarb, passionfruit, pineapple sorbet, tonka bean vodka and a garnish of house-made Champagne jelly, and the Riberry Manhattan, elevating the classic with a Kurio Crimson Jam blended Australian malt whisky, riberry dust and a chocolate painted glass.
Additionally, the 650-bin wine list leans into Victorian producers, with premium poured by the glass pours available.
The kitchen is led by a trio of chefs, Ghanem Group executive chef Jake Nicolson, new Melbourne executive chef Tim Menger, and head chef Josh Moroney, formerly of Nomad in Sydney and Melbourne.
The menu highlights dry-aged Australian beef, native produce, and seafood, all cooked over ironbark on a Josper Basque Grill. Native ingredients feature throughout the menu, from chicken and duck paté to Paroo Kangaroo with pepperberry Loin and riberry pie. Larger plates include wood-roasted rock lobster with warrigal greens, coal-roasted cockerel chicken, and a cumin-spiced lamb shoulder with davidson plum.
The fitout designed by Space Cubed Design Studio has reimagined each floor with distinct character, a street-level bar with backlit Patagonia Quartzite, a mirrored dining space above, and a private events floor anchored by a marble bar.
Nehme Ghanem, director of Ghanem Group, said the venue marks an evolution for the brand.
“Blackbird Melbourne is a true evolution of our brand – guests will recognise our trademark hospitality, but also discover a restaurant, bar and events space that celebrates Melbourne’s energy and individuality,” Ghanem said.