From Gladi to Tulip

A Tulip is in full bloom in Geelong West's Pakington Village. This new addition to the trendy streetscape is the brainchild of friends and chefs Matt Dempsey (Gladioli) and Graham Jefferies (ex-Baveras), who have been planning the venture for six months. Says Dempsey: "We've designed the concept around shared plates. We don't want to be perceived as a fancy restaurant. It's meant to be fun, with something for everyone. We think we've come up with something that Geelong will really like." Graham adds that architect Adam Kane has designed the dining room in a Scandinavian minimalist style featuring light colours and furniture to compensate for the building's lack of natural light. The bar boasts an all-Victorian wine list. Snack on smoked eel croquettes, or oysters with ponzu. For something more substantial try the whole roast lamb shoulder with smoked eggplant or there's a set-price shared menu.

Details: Tulip Shop, 9 Pakington Village, 111 Pakington Street, Geelong West, phone 5229 6953, Mon-Fri 11.30am-late, Sat-Sun 5.30pm-late, tuliprestaurant.com.au

GAIL THOMAS