Just open: Public Life

Union Road in Ascot Vale is gaining momentum as a food hub. Joining Reverence cafe and Union Food and Wine on the strip is new bar Public Life. Husband-and-wife team Jordan Willis and Effie Rados wanted to create a more adult space for the locals, says Willis, ''where they can pop in for a drink and walk home''. For nine years the couple owned and operated Little Byrd cafe at 160 Union Road before selling up last year. The simple menu includes prawn or pork belly souvlakis and a charcuterie plate, plus a drinks list focusing on Australian beers, wines and spirits.

162 Union Road, Ascot Vale, 9326 2992. Open: Wed, Thurs and Sun, 4-11pm; Fri-Sat, 4pm-midnight.