"It’s name is Spanish for ‘neighbourhood’, and Ivanhoe locals are well pleased with their new neighbour. Barrio has taken residence in the old Ivanhoe fire station, a place that’s been through a number of names and ownerships – but Barrio looks set to stick around. The stylish, three-roomed space has a friendliness and warmth about it, with dark wood tables, comfortable chairs and modern artwork, and a confident Mediterranean menu. Expect entrees of spaghettini with crab, chilli, garlic, lemon and parsley, or the Mediterranean tasting plate with spiced chicken bisteeya, falafel balls, grilled chorizo, marinated olives and smoky eggplant dip with house-made flatbread. Mains might include a Moroccan chicken curry with roast vegetable cous cous, almonds and raisins, or double-cooked pork belly with a fennel and apple salad and mashed desiree potato. Desserts include berry trifle or chocolate pudding with a gooey soft centre, served with vanilla-bean icecream and caramel sauce. Young staff are happy to help and can answer questions about the ingredients and construction of dishes, and which wines best match. Welcome to the neighbourhood."
The Age Good Food Guide 2010

"In the former Ivanhoe Fire Station, Barrio serves simple, tasty food with an affordable wine list. The space is welcoming and the service excellent”
Stephen Downes – Herald Sun, September 2, 2008

“Henry Honner and Paul Rae last worked together four years ago at Italy 1 in Camberwell. Now they’ve reunited at Barrio in an old fire station on Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe. Rae, who managed Bottega on Bourke Street for 3 ½ years, says he wants the restaurant to become a drop-in for locals.”
Ed Charles – Herald Sun

"...a good wine list, seamless service and a friendly atmosphere, and you’ve got a winning restaurant which will have you sliding down poles."
Rita Erlich – August 2008, bestrestaurants.com.au. View the full article here.