The Commoner

The inside story: Exposed brickwork and enamel cookware hanging from the wall conspire to make The Commoner feel like a friend’s kitchen. And when it comes to drinking, the kitchen is often the best place to be.
The great outdoors: So-called ‘cheeky smokers’ get a neat rear courtyard with potted herbs and garden trellises to inspire more healthful habits.
To drink: A wallet-friendly compilation of local and imported beers and wines. Most vintages are under $40 per bottle.
To eat: Being a breakfast-to-supper kind of venue, there’s always something cooking and it will be seasonal.  Bar snacks are Spanish and including boccarones (marinated white anchovies, $6) and prawn and bacon croquettes ($4).
The crowd:  With its very ‘mi casa, su casa’ vibe, The Commoner tends to attract locals looking for a good-value regular haunt.
Best for: Languid wining and dining. You can start off with drinks, stay for dinner and go back to having drinks again.

By Marinella Padula

 

Address: 122 Johnston St, Fitzroy
Phone: 9415 6876
Open: Wednesday – Sunday