Some friends invited us to dinner at Dick Whittington Tavern, as Wednesday nights are "blokes" night: Half-off the menu! Good company and a 50% discount, naturally we'd say, "Yea!" "The Dick" (as is the local vernacular) is an interesting restaurant/pub/casino/liquor shop on Chapel Street in East St. Kilda. We parked in the rear, where (coming in) you make your way (first) through a Las Vegas-style gaming room filled with one-arm bandits (slot machines), then (through some saloon swing doors) into a pub complete with pool tables, then finally (through another set of doors) into the large dining room. I'd've never known it from the Chapel Street facade....
I'm not sure if The Dick intended its "blokes" night to be what it is, but the joint was filled-to-the-rafters with a majority of "men's men" (if you know what I mean), with a smattering of the gentler sex...! (A mostly mature crowd of burly- or burlier-types.) ;) (We had 7p reservations and the place was fairly empty. In an hour's time the room was packed.) The layout and design of the dining room is very pleasant, with good-sized windows everywhere, relatively good space between the numerous tables and chairs, and large open bar, all complemented by a very inviting and friendly staff.
Naturally, the 50% discount means absolutely nothing if the food ain't good. In all honesty, I was really surprised at how good it was! Our table's orders ranged from the Baked Blue Eye ($32), to the Spaghetti with Pan-Friend Chili Prawns ($25), to the Chicken Parmagiana ($23). Their eclectic selection of pizzas were $17 (for a small) and $24 (for a large). I ordered the Afghan Chicken Curry (oven roasted chicken breast cooked in Middle Eastern spices with chickpeas, served on basmati rice and a few Naan bread slices) ($29). [Remember, these are all original prices, less 50% off on Wednesdays.] My dish was very, very good (if not the most attractive): Fine flavors, and a particularly moist and good-sized chicken breast. The chickpea sauce was flavorful, but not very spicy. Basmati rice was cooked well. Naan bread slices made nice little triangles to load the meal on and eat rustically with my fingers. In fact, everyone's orders all looked really good and hearty.
Overall, the entire evening was very successful. Without doubt we will return for another night with the "blokes," as this Dick really grows on you...! (PS: "Dick Liquor" -- yes, that's the name -- is right next door. Gambling, pool, dinner, and a bottle for home...! The Dick takes care of all your needs...!) :D read more