Named after the Croatian city, Split is perched above Ally Chow and the neighbouring restaurants of the Nobby Beach strip. Don’t be fooled by the venue’s ramshackle appearance, Split is the handiwork of pals Stevie Filipovic (from the Light Years group) and Jeff Bennett (from Three Blue Ducks), so it’s got some serious hospo know-how backing it. The eclectic space is envisaged as a kind of free-spirited artsy hub that features plaid-cloth covered picnic benches and mismatched outdoor settings against a black-and-white chequered floor. A disco ball dances overhead, a stark contrast to the hessian-style ‘roof’ that provides a welcome reprieve from the summer sun whilst giving off some serious Bali vibes. From the far corner, an open-faced shipping container pumps out a toe-tapping mix of experimental dance tracks mixed by Braden Ceccato (who also happens to be the chef) alongside a rotating selection of local DJs and visiting music makers/producers from Sydney and Melbourne. Rather than just hitting play on a pre-selected playlist, the Split crew wanted to create a hub for local talent to experiment and hone their craft.

When it comes to the food, the succinct menu is underpinned by a Mediterranean theme with a special focus on Croatian cuisine. Pick at a plate of grilled flatbread and trio of dips (carrot and cumin, beetroot and mint, and tzatziki) before sharing a serve of Mama Filipovic’s dusted calamari, which not only uses her recipe but was personally presided over by Mama Filipovic herself to ensure it tastes every bit as good as it does in her motherland. The garlic-and-rosemary marinated chicken from the barbecue has emerged as a crowd favourite alongside a fresh mixed salad of marinated tomatoes, black olives, cucumber and oregano. In contrast to the minimalist food menu, the drinks selection is delightfully extensive and includes some seriously eye-popping hot-pink jalapeno margaritas and five different kinds of spritz, each one more delicious than the next. There’s a satisfying array of tap beers including Balter and Stone & Wood alongside some more adventurous sips such as the Stomping Ground Watermelon Sour. Wine lovers are also spoilt for choice with a selection of wine on tap alongside bottles of bubbles, white, orange, rosé and red.

Keen to pull up a seat and while away an afternoon at Split? Jump over to our Stumble Guide for opening times and booking details.