Showcasing local seafood will be at the heart of the Totti’s menu when it opens at the Lorne Hotel next year.
The Italian diner is the first stage of Merivale’s reimagining of the Great Ocean Road pub – which it purchased last May for $38 million – and will replace MoVida which closed in June.
Opening in February 2023, the restaurant’s menu will have a focus on crayfish, King George whiting, mussels and calamari partnering crowd favourites like home-made pasta and antipasti.
Totti’s creator Mike Eggert, said he is looking forward to bringing signature dishes paired with local wines to the Surf Coast.
“Totti’s is a restaurant where you can walk off the beach for a quick bite and glass of wine or stay for a long lunch with friends and families,” he said.
“[It] pairs perfectly with the ‘choose your own adventure’ nature of the menu.”
Lorne Hotel Executive Chef, Matt Germanchis, said he loves being part of the community as a Surf Coast local.
“The locals are so supportive and genuinely filled with happiness when a quality, fun project comes to their town,” he said.
“I’m excited to bring Totti’s to life at the Lorne Hotel alongside some long-standing incredible chefs, in partnership with the great producers from around the region and showcase the stunning, quality seafood and seasonal produce on offer.”
Totti’s Lorne will be the fifth venture for the brand after Totti’s Bondi, Totti’s Rozelle, Bar Totti’s in the Sydney CBD, and Totti’s Pasta Bar at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium.