By Ian Neubauer
An Italian–inspired bar and dining room that claims to offer an ‘any hour of day’ home for Italophiles with a love of wine, coffee and simple dishes has opened in Melbourne’s CBD.
“Locanda provides a complete Italian foodie experience from early morning espresso, quick or lingering lunch, dinner, eat-in or take-out from the deli, pre-show aperitivo, through to the last stumps night-cap at the bar,” said Locanda Cucina Bar venue manager, Andrew DiMattina.
DiMattina leads an experienced team of hospitality professionals including bar manager Walker, a finalist at the 2007 Australian Bar Awards who goes by one name only; front house manager Alberto Calabrese, the former Maitre’d of a Michelin-starred restaurant on Italy’s Amalfi Coast; and head chef Matthew English.
The bar list includes cocktail combinations encompassing ingredients as diverse as fresh berries, cucumber, basil and rosemary, and unique creations like a Bloody Mary with wasabi, cherry and tomatoes. Classic cocktails are also available.
Locanda Cucina Bar is the first Melbourne venue to use the Enomatic Wine System, a pouring device that replaces air in wine bottles with argon gas to ensure freshness after opening and allowing guests the opportunity to buy premium wines by the glass.
Locanda Cucina Bar is located on the corners of Little Bourke and Exhibition Streets. Open from 6:30am till late every day of the day.