Just Open: Southpress, South Yarra

Southpress wine bar on Toorak Road, South Yarra, swung open its doors on Tuesday and has been met with instant local support. "We've had a lot of people from the area saying how happy they are we're here," says co-owner Adam North.

This isn't his first hospitality venue. He is a partner in South Yarra steakhouse and cafe, Entrecote, and is co-owner of western Victoria's Hopkins River Beef with David Maconochie. The pair has teamed up with front-of-house pro Marty McCaig (ex Entrecote).

The trio took on a former furniture retail shop and, with the help of architects Russell & George, has created a minimal and warm wine bar with greys and greens and a leafy courtyard (handy for smokers and pooch owners). Southpress serves smart bar snacks and carries a hefty stock of Australian and European wines.

Smoked octopus with fresh lemon, pickled vegetables, pork and prune terrine and a changing selection of cheeses - including Ibores Pimenton, a hard raw goat's milk cheese with paprika from western Spain - are some of Southpress' wine-friendly bites.

There are plans to extend the menu in the new year and "offer more substantial dishes", says North. Southpress will be open from Tuesday to Sunday from 4pm-11pm until December 27, and reopen on January 4 from 11am-11pm daily.

27 Toorak Road, South Yarra, 9866 4635, southpress.com.au