Member Review by Gary

'The best Spanish restaurant in Australia' is what everyone says - and, if Melbourne is the test, I have to agree. Accolades for a place that prepares food of far higher standards than the normal range in Melbourne. Service standards have not been maintained from former levels, possibly because the talented Movida staffers are now spread across more Movida restaurants. Still, truthfulness to style is excellent.

From the fine 'jamon' spanish ham to the anchovy, lamb cutlet, beef cheek with cauliflower sauce (amazing stuff) and the 'signature' air-cured beef with truffled egg you won't be disappointed, and some legendary desserts are also on offer, like the creme caramel. My partner and I continue to be bowled over by European food as good as you will get anywhere in Australia. The ability to keep on ordering in a flexible, relaxed way works well for me, especially as the 'tapa' (single small serve) or 'racione' (larger small serve for sharing) blend for a dining approach that is never heavy, but allows for great combinations. You just order, and the food keeps coming until you've had enough, and you are encouraged to keep ordering as much as you want.

The ambience is bustling, very Spanish. The wine list is good, but a bit pricey. Also, the wine buyers need to recognise that many Australians simply don't drink Spanish wine due its different construction to ours, and should offer a few more Aussie choices. Wine by the glass is not a strength.

Book well in advance, and be prepared to sit in a well patronised, fairly small dining room amongst lots of happy people. Well recommended.