Like the stalwart bar of the same name, Eat at the Bar makes readers feel at once at home and familiar - even if they have not ever ventured to Bar Lourinha, beloved for its food, booze, collectors' feel and old-fashioned hospitality.

It is first a cookbook, sharing 55 recipes inspired by local farmers, providores, fishmongers and suppliers, and underpinned by the flavours author Matt McConnell continues to cook with today: garlic, pimento, salt and the best olive oil. The line-up is a best of the best from more than 10 years of Matt's respected repertoire of tapas and raciones.

The book is also more than recipes: it is part travelogue too, sharing anecdotes, narrative and stunning photography from the authors' adventures in Spain, Portugal and Europe over many years - experiences that inspired the idea and philosophy of the now decade-old space they have created in their hometown of Melbourne.