If you're not from the precinct, travelling to Chapel Street for dinner or drinks can be an ordeal because of the traffic. Fortunately you don't have to worry about finding a park within close proximity to Prahran's newest American BBQ hotspot,
Third Wave. The restaurant is conveniently located close to the Woolworths car park at 30 Cato St, Prahran.
Viewing Third Wave cafe from the street, you would perhaps think it is closed for business. Once inside though, the buzz of people sharing plates and the aroma of smokey BBQ will hit you.
The interior of this cafe is pretty: light-filled, loft-like space; repurposed elements with a rustic-chic patina, and an architectural vertical garden. There's a licence at night and a moderately priced American BBQ menu.
You'll find quality slow smoked BBQ plates including pork, beef, chicken and lamb with house-made barbecue sauce and horseradish cream.

Smoked lamb with barbecue sauce and salsa verde and a side dish of Russian Potato Salad
The salmon is salmon-lovers dream come true, smoked using apple and served with a house made delicious dill sauce.

Salmon, slow smoked, with a creamy dill sauce
You will be spoilt for choice of sides at Third Wave, with Russian potato salad, kofit potatoes, pancetta peas and glazed mushrooms available as small sides or larger share plates. The marvellous smoked mac 'n' cheese, unique to Third Wave is a highlight.

Smoked Mac & Cheese
You can also find a mishmash of South American and Russian cuisine such as pelmini (dumplings), blintzes, pulled pork sliders, quesadillas and spicy chicken wings. Russian influenced desserts such as cherry cheese blintzes (Russian crepes) can be found on the sweets menu.
With a separate paleo and gluten free menu available, Third Wave gives diners a smorgasbord of choices, however I recommend sharing the slow smoked BBQ and sides with friends. After all food tastes better shared.