The naked flame has influenced everything on Clifford’s Grill & Lounge extensive menu, from the inviting selection of tapas that offer buffalo wings that are sticky with New York spices, right through to the more substantial Oven Daily Shares that includes a hefty 1kg of char-grilled T-bone steak effortlessly sliced off the bone. Prepared by renowned epicurean and Executive Chef, Daniel Smith, the infused menu contains options from earth and sea and is designed to encourage social dining.

An appetising, slightly charred aroma fills the air of the stylish new venue where diners can eagerly watch as their feast is prepared in the open plan kitchen that is built around a ten-burner grill. The warm warehouse-inspired fit out and adjoining plush lounge (perfect for a post-dinner tipple or late supper) offers a welcoming backdrop where hours are destined to be lost to great food, wine and exceptional company.

Accompanying the menu is an overwhelmingly extensive wine list that contains more than 60 varieties of wine so whether it’s a robust red from the Yarra Valley to complement the lamb or an airy Semillion to go with the fresh, line-caught tuna, Clifford’s can accommodate. For the special occasion, or any regular occasion for that matter, the bar offers a delectable range of heritage-based signature cocktails including the White Shoe Shuffle – vanilla-infused Bacardi Gold rum shaken with white choc liqueur and Creme de Cacao as well as the Barney Bolton – Captain Morgan rum combined with Italian sweet vermouth, sherry and Creme de Peche. After dinner, pop next door to Walrus Social House for some sweet tunes and more cocktails.

Clifford’s Grill & Lounge opened in mid-December and has spurred a stylish revamp for the Watermark Hotel. See our Stumble Guide for opening times.