Nautica Pool Bar & Kitchen

A tropical oasis in the middle of Geelong CBD, this eatery is somewhat of an urban miracle. Welcome to Nautica Pool, Bar & Kitchen.

Elegant and restrained, Nautica pulls together all the characteristics of the tropical wilderness whilst also looking very polished at the same time. Here, sweeping halls, symmetrical details and a cool grey colour scheme create the feeling of a relaxing oasis away from the heat. It has a distinctly refreshing effect that will have you coming back time and again during the hotter months.

The menu is small and considered, conjuring all the seaside magic of the Mediterranean with soulful plates that are bursting with flavour. For the small plates, you have the choice between fresh seafood such as ocean trout, tiger prawns and calamari. Alternatively, you can look to the fruits of the land with some wild mushroom arancini or some pulled pork sliders. Remember, a selection between friends never hurts anyone.

The larger plates really indulge in comforting ingredients and flavours. Up first is the almighty New York Striploin with root vegetables. Only the confit duck leg comes close in terms of decadence, and this is served with a warming lentil stew and pancetta. As for vegetarians, immerse yourself in Italian flavours with the handmade gnocchi smothered in a perfectly simple tomato sauce. And finally, no one can say no to a chocolate panna cotta or New York cheesecake for dessert. After all, Nautica is one for the pleasure seekers.