Just Open: The Milton wine bar, Elwood

It's barely been open a week and already thirsty Elwood locals are packing out the Milton, a new wine bar where the bricks are bare, the lighting glows low and the drinks list beguiles with more than 120 wines and classic old-school cocktails.

Co-owned by Vincent Sciglitano​ (ex Banff), who is responsible for the food and design, and Giuliano Buttazzoni (the chef at next door's Jimmi Jamz), who curated the wine and cheese list, this effortless space is perfect for a quick after-work drop or a longer, more languid evening.

Saddle up at one of the intimate, wall-mounted tables for two, or warm your legs by the fire in the wood-slat-lined back room, ringed with cushioned bench seating.

Bar snacks include warm olives, charcuterie with bread from Woodfrog, and an excellent cheese selection, while share plates include spicy wings, polenta chips and a porky Cuban sandwich with an oyster mojito shot.

Open daily 5pm until late.

The Milton, 134 Ormond Road, Elwood, 9525 7346, themilton.co