When the flavours of Spain meet the Top End.
Words & Photos Mel Brautigam
For four nights last week Charlie’s of Darwin showcased the vibrant flavours of Spanish tapas and raciones share plates – in Darwin-style. In collaboration with Melbourne’s famous MoVida Restaurant and its acclaimed Chef Frank Camorra, this exclusive pop-up brought together the best of two culinary worlds: the bold vibrancy of Spanish cuisine and the diverse produce of the Northern Territory.
From 11 to 14 June, guests were invited into the heart of Charlie’s, where classic leather lounges and moody timber interiors whisper speakeasy cool – to indulge in a 12-dish set menu that captured the essence of modern Spain, reimagined for the Top End.
A Taste of MoVida
MoVida has long held its place as one of Melbourne’s most celebrated dining institutions. Since opening its doors nearly two decades ago, it has redefined modern Spanish dining in Australia, with its famous ‘Cecina’ (Air-dried Wagyu Beef, Truffled Potato Foam & Poached Egg) still gracing the menu today. For Chef Frank Camorra, this Darwin collaboration was more than a culinary road trip. It was a return to the roots of MoVida. A word that captured the spirit of post-Franco Spain, when creativity and freedom burst into every corner of culture and cuisine.
That energy, the movement and flavour – was palpable at Charlie’s.
Each of the 12 shared plates in this set menu paid homage to classic Spanish tapas while showcasing the best of the NT’s ingredients with locally-caught seafood, tropical fruits, bush herbs, and native botanicals.
Chef Frank spent time in the Territory ahead of the event, exploring the produce and meeting local suppliers, adding a personal touch that made this experience even more meaningful. The result? A thoughtful curation of dishes that felt both inspired by Spain and unmistakably shaped by the NT.
A Venue Worthy of the Occasion
Charlie’s of Darwin needs no introduction. Hidden in plain sight with its alleyway entrance on Austin Lane and leafy terrace overlooking Raintree Park, it’s a destination that has helped redefine Darwin’s hospitality scene. With its house-distilled gins, locally foraged cocktail ingredients and unwavering commitment to quality, Charlie’s is more than a bar or a restaurant – it’s an experience.
For this special collaboration, the ambiance was elevated even further with warm table lamps, clinking cocktail glasses, laughter carried across the room and the unmistakable energy that only comes when two culinary powerhouses collide. Cocktails featuring Charlie’s signature gins were toasted with the dishes, adding a local twist to every sip.
This pop-up wasn’t just a showcase of food, it was a celebration of what makes the Territory so special: bold ideas, local pride and a willingness to collaborate, create and elevate.
For Charlie’s, it was a chance to show the depth of their culinary talent and their desire to push boundaries. For guests, it was a rare opportunity to experience MoVida’s brilliance without leaving the Top End.
For everyone involved, it was unforgettable.
Charle’s of Darwin – 56 Smith Street, entrance off Austin Lane or Knuckey Street, Darwin City.
https://www.charliesofdarwin.com.au
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