British chef makes a big impression in Melbourne

The restaurant run by Melbourne-based British chef Michael Lambie has won one of Australia's top hospitality accolades. Circa the Prince, which the 34-year-old Lambie opened in the St Kilda district of Australia's second city four years ago along with business partners John and Frank van Haandel, picked up the Fine Dining accolade at the National Awards for Excellence in Restaurant and Catering run by Restaurant and Catering Australia (RCA).

"We're very happy to have created a thriving million-dollar business, which has been recognised by the industry for its excellence in service and food. Australia is a tough marketplace and many fine-dining restaurants struggle to survive," Lambie commented. The award was particularly sweet, he said, as it was bestowed by a judging panel of his industry peers.

Just before the RCA awards, Circa the Prince was also recognised - twice - in the Restaurant and Catering Victoria Awards when it won the state's Restaurant of the Year (for the second year running) and Fine Dining accolades.

The restaurant recently opened a new function venue called the Deck on the third floor of the Prince hotel complex, where Circa is located. With glass windows and an extensive terrace, Circa has treetop views over St Kilda.