Bar Carnation - Food VIC

5 /5 524 FLINDERS: Beautiful space with an incredible team! You’ve done it again carnation x

2 /5 Gabrielle Jarell: I would only return for a drink and some nibbles from the top of the menu. Great drink selections but the dish concepts were lacking. The stand out being the garlic ciabatta. If you want to be able to have an audible conversation with your friends you will need to move outside as they “like the music loud”. Overall the service came off as a bit disinterested. The venue was only at 25% capacity and there were definitely missed opportunities to check in for a second round of drinks or additional dishes throughout our 2hr sitting.

5 /5 Jessi Singh: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Neighbourhood Treasure — Bar Carnation Delivers on Every Level From the moment you step into Bar Carnation on Rathdowne Street, you instantly feel why this place is already becoming a Carlton North favourite. This isn’t just a bar — it’s a beautifully curated experience where thoughtful design, warm service and exceptional wine and food come together seamlessly.  The fit-out is stunning: a perfect blend of old and new, honouring the space’s history while creating an effortlessly cool, modern atmosphere. The interior’s dark timber, stainless accents and bespoke lighting feel elegant yet welcoming, giving the space a sense of personality without pretension.  What truly sets Bar Carnation apart, though, is the service. The team are genuinely friendly, knowledgeable and ego-free — no judgements, no rushed interactions, just attentive hospitality that makes you feel at home. Their wine expertise is next-level, guiding you through an impressive list that leans beautifully into Italian and European varietals, as well as some crowd-pleasing choices by the glass or carafe.  The open kitchen vibe is a highlight — watching the chefs at work adds an exciting layer to the evening that few places achieve. When the chef interacts with diners, it enhances the whole experience: you’re not just eating — you’re part of the rhythm of the place.  The menu strikes a fantastic balance between approachable and inspired — think aperitivo-style snacks, pasta, steak frites and daily specials that reflect the seasons and quality produce. Everything feels curated with care, and paired with the superb wine list, it’s the ideal combination for a casual drink or a full dinner.  Location-wise, Bar Carnation nails it — perched in a charming neighbourhood that’s perfect for a relaxed pre-dinner drink or a last-minute plan with friends. It embodies the best of local hospitality: inviting, unpretentious and consistently excellent.  In short, Bar Carnation is a rare find: beautiful space, top-tier wines, delectable food and the friendliest service you’ll find anywhere. It’s now firmly on our list of must-visit neighbourhood wine bars — and one we’re already planning to return to again and again.

5 /5 Nelson: This reinCarnation of the old and fondly remembered Gerald’s bar has livened up and improved the space without losing its original charm. Same with the food which has the perfect menu matching the feel of the place. All dishes are outstanding, accompanied by a great wine list and friendly service. I like the mainly ‘walk in’s’ approach (not sure if they take bookings) because it’s the sort of place you want to visit when you feel like it rather than having to pre-book in advance. So much to like about this place which I’m sure will continue to be popular and certainly on my favourites list. Great vibe, food, wine, service, fit out and location - what more could you ask for.