The Gardiner’s rooftop terrace – sun-drenched and overlooking the Victorian architecture of Glenferrie Road – is the perfect summer hangout for Malvern and Caulfield North locals. A smart refit of the former bank merges bistro-inspired tiling with plush banquettes and rattan chairs.

Head chef Michael Flemming (from Adelaide’s Arkhe and Press Food&Wine) is serving smoked beetroot tartare with sour cream,chives and beetroot crisps;stracciatella with green tomatoes;a classic chicken schnitty;and 14-day dry-aged duck breast with pepper sauce,bearnaise and fries. A separate menu for kids includes ice-cream sundaes with chocolate sauce and sprinkles.

Done deal: A Sunday roast with all the trimmings for $35 has end-of-year catch-ups written all over it.