Red Monkey Tea House

The Look: City-fringe casual with an improvised Asian feel. The shop-front bar keeps things simple and cosy – red lamps and lanterns emit a warm, inviting glow. The rear ‘make out’ room, meanwhile, brings out your animal side with its snow leopard print couches, woodland wall frieze and open fire.
To drink: Not surprisingly, tea is a recurring theme at Red Monkey. The list currently includes more than 30 varieties, from Moroccan mint to Turkish apple and Indian chai. Tea is also the star ingredient of the house cocktail selection: try the Bengal Tiger with Orange Pekoe infused vodka ($14) or the fragrant Jasmine Gin Martini ($16). Oh yeah, there’s beer and wine too.
To eat: A reasonably priced range of pizza, tapas and sweets including san choi bao pastries ($9) and semolina pudding with berry coulis ($5.50).
The vibe: Laidback and local. Dress to express, not impress.
Best for: Winding down after a late-afternoon excursion to the Vic Market.

By Marinella Padula

Address: 470 Victoria Street, North Melbourne
Phone: 9326 7572
Open: Wednesday – Sunday