Gentlemen, this is your first reminder: there are only 11 sleeps until Valentine’s Day. But before you draw attention to yourself by cursing out loud, Agenda have the solution to your problem.

At the end of last year, a French inspired restaurant and wine bar opened in the city. Brought to you by The Publican Group (Veludo, Campari House and Warf Hotel), Mr. Mason knows how to woo. Their special Valentine’s Day dinner is inspired by none other than the city of love. Whether you decide sink into the maroon chesterfield couches in front of the stone fireplace and sample the boutique wine list (by the glass only, so you can try them all) or feast in style in the main dining area, Mr. Mason is sure to impress.

If you think French fare means lots of butter, salt and fat, think again. At Mr. Mason the French food has a modern touch. The produce-driven menu changes weekly, depending on what’s seasonal. Breakfast is available in the morning, with the option of a Croque Madame. If it’s a meal for one you’re after, try the $15 express lunch any weekday between midday and 3pm (add $5 for wine).

Choose something from the ‘small’ section of the menu to accompany after work drinks on the outdoor terrace. For dinner, try the Carpaccio of beef with celeriac remoulade and Gruyere crisps from the ‘medium’ section. It’s hard to go passed the roasted lamb rump with bacon lardons, broad beans and potato dumplings as a main… but just make sure you save room for the chocolate soufflé with milk sherbet and honeycomb for dessert.

The rustic décor has an industrial touch, shifting between Parisian fine dining and a Provençal bistro. A mass of rounded brass lights spurt from the ceiling, red brick appears next to raw wooden beams and raised yellow stools provide a view of the bar.

It doesn’t matter if you’re dining with a loved one or if you fall in love with dining experience. Mr. Mason, c’est trés romantique!

Location: Shop 10, 530 Collins Street, Melbourne (enter via Little Collins)
Open: Mon-Thur 8am-10pm |Fri 8am-midnight | Available for hire on weekends
Phone: (03) 9614 4500
Details: mrmason.com.au

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