What we covered in Melbourne food and drink this week

• Our photos from the first service at Reine, Nomad Group’s grand and gothic new restaurant, are in.

• We got a first look at To Be Frank’s Elsternwick store, where hazelnut babka takes centrestage.

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• And a first look at Ray’s Sandwich Deli, the shop that’s bringing a slice of New York to a quiet Hawthorn backstreet.

• The Thai boom continues with fiery dishes from Nora Thai in South Melbourne.

• Meanwhile CDMX brings the tacos, tostadas and mezcal of Mexico City to Brunswick East.

• And Brunswick’s Ima Asa Yoru will take one of Melbourne’s favourite Japanese brunch spots from day to night.

• A first look at Zee Scott HQ, a Coburg North event and workshop space from the in-demand MC and wedding cake maker (and Hannah Gadsby’s celebrant).

• Morris House, a four-level pub with a sweeping rooftop bar and a basement comedy club, opens in the CBD.

• The fried chicken our publications director can’t stop thinking about.

• And the scoop on Kariton Sorbetes’s new Glen Waverley shop.

• Turns out one of Melbourne’s best new set menus is … at a brewery?

• Plus Broadsheet Access members have the chance to score a free toastie from Maker and Monger’s chef collab series.

• And Warkop’s Barry Susanto tells us about his move from fine-dining chef to sandwich-shop owner.

You might have missed…
• These summery fruit and veg candles from Nonna’s Grocer.

Listen up
• This week on Around Town we talk banh mi with Good Days Hot Bread owner Nam Nguyen, learn about the Melbourne International Film Festival’s food and film pairings, and chat about new Melbourne diner Walrus.

More, please
• Former Coda and Tonka chef Adam D’Sylva has announced a new restaurant at The Bend in Alphington.

• Indian Accent, named one of Asia’s top 50 restaurants by World’s 50 Best, is popping up at Tonka from Friday August 11 to Sunday August 13.

• The gelato-makers at Pidapipo have collaborated with MIFF on a chocolate-dipped salted caramel and fior di late gelato bar

• Don’t miss the free wine tasting at Poodle Bar and Bistro in Fitzroy this Sunday, July 30, from 12pm to 3pm.

• Chef Julian Hills of Navi in Yarraville is taking up a four-day residency at Carousel in London next month.

• New to Lagoon Dining? A chocolate milo parfait.

As seen on the web
• A “girl dinner” explainer via the New York Times.