Eat at the Bar

Book excerpt: Eat at the Bar is first a cookbook, sharing 55 recipes inspired by local farmers, providores, fishmongers and suppliers, and underpinned by the flavors Melbourne author Matt McConnell continues to cook with today: garlic, pimento, salt and the best olive oil. The line-up is a best of the best from more than 10 years of Matt's respected repertoire of tapas and raciones at his Melbourne bar and restaurant The Bar Lourinha Project. The book, like the bar, makes readers feel at once at home and familiar – even if they have not ever ventured to the city spot beloved for its food, booze, collectors' feel and old-fashioned hospitality. The book is also more than recipes: it is part travelogue too, sharing anecdotes, narrative and stunning photography from the authors' adventures in Spain, Portugal and Europe over many years – experiences that inspired the idea and philosophy of the now decade-old space they have created in their hometown of Melbourne.