Supermaxi has taken over the home of the very uninspiring Middle Eastern restaurant on St Georges road, next to the linear bike park.  The outside hasn’t changed, still ugly puce with graffiti, inside has been tarted up a bit, not too much. The view out on to the bike park is actually quite pleasant.

They were fairly busy tonight, we ate at the bar, but walked in without a booking at 7pm.

Beers, 4 whites, 4 red and a sparkling by the glass.  Small wine list of mostly Italian and Victoria wines.  500m carafe of house red for $18 is the bargain option.

Tastes, small plates, salads, pasta, pizza and dessert.

We shared battered beetroot and cavolfiore di gigia (deep fried cauliflower florets) which turned up at the same time as the Badabing Pizza.

Entrees were delicious, the Pizza was OK, not quite cooked through in the crust. But only 5 days in, I will forgive them.  The Pinot Noir by the glass ($11) was very decent.

Deep fried custard with honey and vanilla ice cream.  Half was enough, but very yum.    Just over $100 with 2 beers and 3 glasses of wine.

Service was a touch frenetic, but cheerful. Many familiar faces in the crowd.

I’m very pleased to have Rita Macali and co so close to home.

Tram stop 23,  Route 112.