Sweatshop Basement Bar & Yard at Seamstress Restaurant and Bar
113 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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Reviews for Seamstress Restaurant and Bar
Chasing Pastry
What a delight! Seamstress is somewhat hidden restaurant situated upstairs above a basement bar and coffee shop on the Paris end of Lonsdale Street. Serving up modern Asian Fusion and a contemporary cocktail menu, it’s the perfect spot for a pre-dinner meal, date night, or after work drinks. They’ve leaned into the theme with the space decorated with draped fabrics and floral arrays hanging from the ceiling and vintage sewing machines scattered about giving it a really cool vibe inside. The menu is designed for sharing and features a range of creative dishes from small bites to more substantial offerings. Almost every dish comes in multiple sizes so you can customise your feast, or opt for a banquet and let the chef make all the hard decisions for you. The food was all immaculately presented and full of flavour. It tended towards the milder end on the spice spectrum (which suited me perfectly) but those who like it hot might need to request extra chilli. Standouts for us were the sweet potato and snake bean wontons, the vegetarian betel leaf with peanut, cashew, shallot, coconut and mango, the Penang vegetable red curry, and the pumpkin and coconut custard dessert though everything we tried was delicious. The cocktails were also lovely with some very interesting combinations. Our faves were the Sunshine State of Mind and Rum Swizzle. Service was very friendly, and we appreciated the thorough explanation of how the menu worked and recommendations to suit our preferences (vegetarian). Dishes came out quickly and portions were on point. Overall a great spot I’d gladly come back to anytime.
this.is_melbourne
Had such a great experience at Seamstress. We went with the 3-course meal and each course was thoughtfully curated, packed with flavour, and perfect to enjoy together. The modern Asian fusion dishes were creative without being overcomplicated, every bite was satisfying. The cocktails were a standout too — beautifully crafted and a fun twist on familiar favourites. A special shoutout to their staff for their warm and attentive service. They made us feel genuinely welcomed. Definitely a spot I’d recommend for a special night out in the CBD.
Ananya Anand
I’m someone who goes out to eat for the experience as much as the food and this really delivered. Seamstress is layered in the way Melbourne does best different spaces, shifting moods, and a pace that lets the night unfold naturally. We went with the banquet, which I always prefer. It takes the pressure off choosing and lets the kitchen guide the experience. It starts fresh delicate wontons, bright, clean flavours, and small bites that ease you in. Then it builds into texture crispy elements, punchy sauces, things with a bit more weight and contrast. By the mains, it’s rich and satisfying braised short rib, pork belly, wok-tossed vegetables, all made to share. The cocktails were brilliant and they even did a proper mocktail version, which felt just as considered. And that chocolate cake at the end… exactly what you want to finish on. We had this massive, never-ending banquet and absolutely loved it.
Shine
Such a beautiful dining experience at The Seamstress! 🥢✨ The ambience is warm, moody, and elegant — perfect for a date night or a special catch-up with friends. The food was full of flavour and beautifully presented, with a great selection of Asian-inspired dishes meant for sharing. Everything we tried felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. The cocktails were also a highlight — creative, balanced, and matched perfectly with the vibe of the space. Service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. Overall, a stylish and memorable spot in the city that I’d definitely recommend if you’re looking for great food and a cosy, upscale atmosphere 🤍
Serena Kent
Loved this hidden bar! Great theme, nod to the history of Melbourne. Food was amazing, cocktails on point. I will definitely return. We had the Espresso Martini- one of the best in Melbourne.
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