July 2007 Update -

Bolero's is busier than ever, and while they are still possibly the best dining venue in the outer NE, the perfection is not what is was last year. Service continues to be brilliant even when they are fully booked. Prices are reasonable, especially compared to the CBD venues of similar standards.

We had the soup of the day - an excellent prawn bisque; 3 of the mains in our party of four had variations on steak - medallions and fillet - all were very good and flavourful - and high quality - but cooked more medium than the ordered medium rare, which was unexpected (reference the original review below). A barramundi special was judged excellent. The accompaniments were all perfectly cooked and presentations were excellent.

For sweets a cream caramel and lemon tart - each sufficient for two - nicely presented and tasty.

Prices have crept up with starters being in the $10-20 range, mains mostly $28-40 including standard accompaniments, and sweets generally $10.50 (each typically being sufficient for 2).

You could not do better than Bolero's for an excellent dinner in Warrandyte.

--- July 2006 ---

Walking up to Boleros is not a dramatic event. It is an unassuming cafe atmosphere. As one approaches the door one of the staff always manages to open it for you, and greet you. While perusing the menu a complimentary warm sangria is offered. On a chilly winter day that especially sets the tone for an excellent dining experience. The decor is reminiscent of mediterranean and stucco, done reasonably if not brilliantly well.

After numerous visits the service has never been less than excellent - and to a standard rarely experienced in the CBD, let alone the far outer suburbs. The staff and chef ensure an excellent dining experience through unobtrusive and friendly visits to confirm satisfaction.

The menu heritage is Spanish, but since open has branched out to be comfortably accommodating of mainstream dishes while still keeping the Spanish roots.

From steak, chicken, and fish dishes, we have never had a meal at Boleros that was less than excellent. Quality is second to none, as is preparation, taste, and presentation. Boleros is one of the few establishments that consistently prepares a medium rare steak, medium rare -- among the best steaks.

The sides dishes and desserts are always as good as the meals, and are followed with sherry prior to exit.

We prefer honest unpretenious dining venues, quality over quantity, and personalised experiences rather than large establishments, which may colour our opinion, but Boleros is our #1 in greater Melbourne. I could not imagine anyone being less than very pleased, and with only one other restaurant to date, give it a solid 10.

As a guide, mains range from the mid $20~30s. to an occassional special into the $40 range. Considering quality, preparation, taste, and service, I believe it represents a best value dining experience.

Walking up to Boleros is not a dramatic event. It is an unassuming cafe atmosphere. As one approaches the door one of the staff always manages to open it for you, and greet you. While perusing the menu a complimentary warm sangria is offered. On a chilly winter day that especially sets the tone for an excellent dining experience. The decor is reminiscent of mediterranean and stucco, done reasonably if not brilliantly well.

After numerous visits the service has never been less than excellent - and to a standard rarely experienced in the CBD, let alone the far outer suburbs. The staff and chef ensure an excellent dining experience through unobtrusive and friendly visits to confirm satisfaction.

The menu heritage is Spanish, but since open has branched out to be comfortably accommodating of mainstream dishes while still keeping the Spanish roots.

From steak, chicken, and fish dishes, we have never had a meal at Boleros that was less than excellent. Quality is second to none, as is preparation, taste, and presentation. Boleros is one of the few establishments that consistently prepares a medium rare steak, medium rare -- among the best steaks.

The sides dishes and desserts are always as good as the meals, and are followed with sherry prior to exit.

We prefer honest unpretenious dining venues, quality over quantity, and personalised experiences rather than large establishments, which may colour our opinion, but Boleros is our #1 in greater Melbourne. I could not imagine anyone being less than very pleased, and with only one other restaurant to date, give it a solid 10.

As a guide, mains range from the mid $20~30s. to an occassional special into the $40 range. Considering quality, preparation, taste, and service, I believe it represents a best value dining experience.