Chi Lounge

Chi Lounge
The Look: Old Shanghai
opium den meets English drawing room and makes wild passionate love. Think Chesterfields, Klimt
prints, carved screens and brocade covered walls.
To drink: The decadent
surrounds really call for cocktails. Choose from an extensive selection,
including the lavender martini ($16) or embrace the Asian theme with sake or
Suntory whisky.
To eat: Every night is yum cha night at Chi. Chow down on chew
chow peanut dumplings ($7), pork buns ($6) or takoyaki (deep-fried octopus balls
– $7). The latter is actually Japanese but clearly in keeping with the Tao of
late-night nibbles.
Bar soundtrack: Downstairs it’s chilled beats or crooning
courtesy of Dean Martin and Bobby Darin. Upstairs in the private karaoke
suites, it’s pretty much whatever you like in any key you can manage.
The vibe:
Languid. There’s the distinct feeling one could spend a very long time here.
Best for: Creating your own Chinatown sequel
to Lost in Translation.
By Marinella Padula

Address: Level 1-3, 195 Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Phone: 9662 2688
Open: Daily