Warm interior of the Velvet Courthouse restaurant with smoked-glass partitions and subtle poker tables in the background

Dine Amidst the Shuffle

Velvet Courthouse is a restaurant where every meal is served in the warm, tactile atmosphere of a dedicated card lounge. Here, the rituals of fine dining and offline poker share the same room, creating an experience that is both refined and playfully immersive.

Where Culinary Craft Meets Card Table

At Velvet Courthouse, we believe that a great meal and a great poker session share the same spirit: attention to detail, a sense of occasion, and the joy of shared experience. Our restaurant is designed to be a place where you can enjoy exceptional food while surrounded by the quiet energy of the card room.

The dining area is adjacent to the poker lounge, separated by smoked-glass partitions that allow the ambiance to flow. Our menu is crafted to be enjoyed at leisure, whether you're between poker hands or simply here for dinner.

A Space for Every Occasion

Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or a pre-poker meal, the restaurant offers flexible seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The design pays homage to 1970s Australian Modernism, with sculptural furniture and warm, earthy tones that make you want to linger.

Seating options include intimate booths, communal tables, and lounge chairs near the poker area. The lighting is dimmed to create a cozy, card-room feel without sacrificing visibility for dining.

Circular plate of charred kangaroo loin with native pepper jus
Chef grilling a premium cut of meat over open flames

From the Grill

Our kitchen focuses on bold, comforting flavors with a modern Australian twist. The grill is the heart of the menu, featuring premium cuts cooked over open flames and served with seasonal accompaniments.

Signature dish: Charred kangaroo loin with native pepper jus. Vegetarian option: Smoked eggplant with miso and macadamia.

Table spread of small plates including saltbush damper and charred octopus with a deck of cards

Small Plates for the Table

Designed for sharing, our small plates are perfect for groups gathering before a poker session. They are meant to be enjoyed slowly, with conversation and perhaps a deck of cards on the table.

Highlights include saltbush damper with whipped butter and charred octopus. Portions are generous and meant to be passed around.

Wattle seed pavlova with cream and native fruits beside playing card suit petit fours

Desserts with a Twist

End your meal with something unexpected. Our dessert menu plays with classic Australian flavors, reimagined with a touch of nostalgia and a nod to the card lounge's playful spirit.

Try the wattle seed pavlova or the lemon myrtle panna cotta. Desserts are served with a side of house-made petit fours shaped like playing card suits.

The Dining Experience

Service with a Personal Touch

Our staff are trained to anticipate your needs, whether you're deep in conversation or focused on a poker hand. Service is attentive but never intrusive, allowing you to set the pace of your meal. Staff are knowledgeable about both the menu and the poker lounge operations. Special requests, such as timing your meal around a poker session, are accommodated.

A Meal That Fits Your Game

If you're planning to join a poker session, our kitchen can time your courses to match the breaks. Enjoy a starter before the game, a main course during a pause, and dessert after the final hand—all without missing a moment. The restaurant coordinates with the poker room schedule. A dedicated 'poker break' menu offers quicker options for shorter intervals.

An Atmosphere to Remember

The combination of fine dining and the subtle sounds of a card lounge creates a unique sensory experience. The clink of glasses, the shuffle of cards, and the murmur of conversation blend into a warm, inviting hum. The acoustics are carefully managed to keep the space lively but not overwhelming. Evening hours bring a more intimate, low-lit ambiance.

What Our Guests Say

"The food was outstanding, but what really set it apart was the atmosphere. Dining next to the poker lounge added an exciting edge to our evening. We'll definitely be back for a full poker night."

— Sarah M., Melbourne

"We booked a table for a birthday dinner and ended up staying for a poker session afterward. The staff made the transition seamless, and the whole night felt special. Highly recommend the small plates."

— James T., Carlton

Join Us for Dinner

Whether you're planning a special occasion or a casual meal before a poker session, we'd love to host you. Reserve your table online or give us a call—our team is happy to help you plan the perfect evening.

Phone: +61 459 817 246

Email: [email protected]

Address: 48 Card Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia