Caboose
4 City Square, Melbourne
(03)9663 4448

“Booking for 6pm?” the manager sighed and shook his head, “You are 15 mins late, we have a booking for 12 people at 7pm.”  That was the first greeting we received after standing quite a few moments in the doorway.  Yes, we are late, but when asked whether the manager had informed us that the table was needed by 7pm at the time of booking, he said, “No, but I thought that one hour is plenty for you to eat and finish.”  Well, no it’s not and it’s a big mistake to start off in such a wrong foot with me, because I’ll say so.

I almost walked out at that time, but we decided to stay, as most places are booked out on Friday nights.  I scanned through the menu, nothing really jumps out.  Pasta and risotto are $20-$24, mains are $28-$54.  When asked if there was a special, the reply was no ma’am, no specials today, although there was a small board that said “Special- lamb something with basil” Mmmmm.

Already dissatisfied, I chose the cheapest option in the menu- Traditional Spaghetti Bolognese served with grated parmesan $20.  Yes, $20.  It came quickly, which is an advantage when they are trying to kick you out.  As I was thinking that this spaghetti doesn’t taste too bad after all, I had a mouth of cumin.  Of all the spaghetti Bolognese I’ve made, seen on cookbook and watched on Masterchef, I didn’t think Cumin featured in a Bolognese.

All in all, there’s not a chance I’ll be going to Cabroose again.  EVER. 3.5/10