The Aviary

The Look:  Part Spanish church, part post-modern supper club, The Aviary has a big bluestone building to play with. Bird-cage lamps, postage stamp wallpaper and Chesterfield wingback chairs are just some of the interior highlights. There are also plans to expand the coop upstairs in time for summer.
To drink: A mainly Australian wine list supplemented European varietals, plus a reasonable by-the-glass selection. While it’s tempting to go the sangria ($9) the cocktail menu warrants a squiz. Drinks include the Ginger Finch Daiquiri (rum, lime, kiwi fruit and ginger liqueur - $15) and the Butcher Bird (Drambuie, Scotch, blackberries and mint - $15).
To eat: If you eat like a bird, tapas themed share-plates like baked white asparagus ($10) or wagyu carpaccio ($14) should do it for you. More ravenous appetites can get stuck into cooked-to-order paella ($24).
The crowd: local 20-to-30 somethings.
Best for: Wetting the whistle before a Victoria Street feast.

By Marinella Padula

Address: 271 Victoria Street, Abbotsford
Phone: 9428 7727
Open: Tuesday to Sunday.