Myself living in Fitzroy, I was delightfully surprised to be invited to the exclusive opening of the Spanish tapas restaurant Nómada, just off Brunswick Street. Upon arrival, we were personally greeted by both owners, Jesse McTavish and Jesse Gerner. It was nice to be warmly welcomed. Not only with a handshake, but also with a specialty vermouth aperitif.

While sipping on our cocktails, my guest and I admired the décor, which I would describe as ‘tropically coastal’. Think Byron Bay, with vintage photos of surfers hung on the wooden walls and mohair rugs slung over rustic leather seats. We slipped into a booth and excitedly waited for our culinary experience.

We were promptly served fresh bread accompanied with olive oil and cured meats. A multicourse array of tasty small bites followed. First up we were given a taste of the sea with freshly shucked oysters.

Next was a beautifully savory stuffed mushroom filled quail egg-braised lamb that was ever so tender, with roasted quail, and a crostini topped with blue cheese were all on the menu for the evening. The real show-stopper was snapper in a cream sauce that was truly a culinary masterpiece.

The wine was just as exquisite as the food. The Spanish Temparnillo, Azul y Garanza was divine. All of this amounted to a genuinely enjoyable evening. The décor, the food, and the service were impeccable.

Nómada’s bright homely laid back atmosphere is a nice addition to Brunswick Street. And the view out the window of graffiti on the old fire station is a pleasant vista.

With a wide selection of different priced options, this place requires multiple visits to try all the delectable plates. I recommend Nómada’s tapas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

– Leah
Leah Sparks is a Canadian girl living in Melbourne. Other than her love for maple syrup, she digs the outdoors, live gigs, beer, the 70s and cruising around Fitzroy with her white wolf.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of Tigerbird International.
Image credit: Tigerbird International, Jana Langhorst Photography.