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Why Richmond's Saint Urban is Fast Becoming a Favourite

Why Richmond's Saint Urban is Fast Becoming a Favourite

by Mireille Kilgour : September 9th, 2015

Melbourne is home to some incredible restaurants, many of which we are thrilled to call partners of the Good Food Gift Card. The quality of food, wine and service together with its rich cultural diversity has Melbourne pegged as one of the world's greatest eating hubs. And yet, there's always room for one more special restaurant…

When Saint Urban opened its doors last month, it was instantly apparent that this exciting wine bar and bistro is destined for greatness. Located just a stone's throw from busy Church Street, it has already become a favourite haunt for locals and is making waves on the culinary scene. And why shouldn't it? St Urban is the brother restaurant of the already much-loved Punch Lane, whose cosy, intimate European setting is filled every day of the week.

About Saint Urban

Saint Urban is recognised as the patron saint of the wine industry, so it's a fitting name for a bistro that prides itself on serving some of the best Australian and international wines. Once the bishop of Langres, France, legend states that he was driven from his home and forced to hide in a nearby vineyard as political turmoil erupted. Turning the opportunity into a chance to convert the vine-dressers to Christianity, he then moved through France via vineyards to convert others. Urban developed a great love for the wine industry and vineyard workers loved him right back.

While the bistro Saint Urban might not convert you to Christianity, it will convert you to foodism and oenophilia (love of wine) if you're not already there. The carefully curated wine list showcases both Australian and European varieties, with sixteen 'by the glass' wines starting at just $12.50. Constantly evolving, Saint Urban's wine menu is created to offer you the best wine at the best price, and you can expect to enjoy a balanced bottle for under $70. If, however, you're partial to a very fine drop, Friday nights are fast becoming a haven for wine buffs with a selection of high-end bottles being tasted.

As for the food, Head Chef Daniel Schelbert has created an approachable menu made up of classic dishes done to perfection. Lazy afternoons can be enjoyed with oysters, cheese and charcuterie on the terrace, or for diners looking for a three-course meal, dishes such as charred ox tongue with mustard fruit and horseradish; gnocchi with burnt butter, pumpkin and amaretti; and chocolate pudding with peanut butter ganache and roasted banana ice cream will have your mouth watering from the moment you lay eyes on the menu.

The chef

When Head Chef Daniel Schelbert met Olimpia Bortolotto at college, it was the start of an epic food journey. Three Bortolotto restaurants later, he left Cecconi's for The European, before heading to London for fresh ideas. On his return, Punch Lane was his calling and it was here where he perfected his craft, infusing Modern Australian with European influences. Now it's Saint Urban's turn, and needless to say, we're excited for what he's going to produce.

The setting

Saint Urban is the perfect place for a coffee, drink, snack or meal. Its arched windows overlook Swan Street and house two caricatured statues of the venue's namesake patron saint, which stand to safeguard all that come to visit. Worn woods and handmade blue tiles add warmth to the small 55-seating dining room, and the cute front terrace creates a cosy European ambience.

Aiming to become a community asset, Saint Urban hopes to attract guests at all hours of the day and caters for those looking to snack, drink or fill their bellies with delicious food and wine.

The location

Swan Street runs through the heart of Richmond and offers a wonderful mix of shops, cafes and restaurants. Owners Martin Pirc and Daniel Schelbert have had their eye on the spot for years and are confident that Saint Urban will add to the variety of pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants and shops found along this character-filled street. Early 19th century architecture dominates this area and graffiti on a few walls showcase the talent calling Richmond home.

Richmond is the ideal representation of Melbourne's fun, friendly and relaxed people and you can't help but smile when walking down Swan Street. Spend an hour on Saint Urban's terrace and you'll be smiling too.

Opening hours

Saint Urban is open Tuesday to Thursday from 3pm – late and Friday to Sunday 11am – late. You can find Saint Urban at 213 Swan Street, Richmond.

To help a friend discover Saint Urban before everyone else does, order your Good Food Gift Card today and treat them to sticky lamb ribs, a selection of artisanal cheeses or the heavenly taste of a fine pinot noir.

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Mireille Kilgour

Mireille Kilgour has been an entrepreneur for 35 years in the hospitality sector. French born, she has been an accomplished business owner and operator for a number of Sydney venues. Leading the industry with high profile institutions such as Lamrock Café Bondi, she has endless passion for the industry, and now has the pleasure of supporting restaurants to fill their tables with the new Good Food Gift Card program.