The Rustica empire, arguably the embodiment of Melbourne’s cafe culture, has announced its newest and largest flagship store to date, located in the lively, vibrant heart of Chapel Street, South Yarra.
The new haunt will take the title of flagship bakery from Fitzroy, and additionally boast a night time offering alongside its popular breakfast and lunch menu, setting it apart from its sister stores.
“The move into Melbourne’s dinner scene was inevitable for Rustica. Up until now, we’ve been restricted by the size and layout of our humble Fitzroy flagship,” says Brenton Lang, Founder of Rustica.
Designed by architect extraordinaire, Fiona Drago, the flagship encompasses 500 square meters of earthy tones, marble tabletops and timber throughout, and is flooded with natural light through impressive skylines and large windows.
Once a retail warehouse, the space has since transformed into a multi-faceted eatery, comfortably seating 100 people and offering an unobscured view of the pastry, chef and bakery stations.
“The layout of our Chapel Street location means we’re now able to showcase the theatrics behind our bakery and give our customers a behind-the-scenes view of our production.”
Melburnians can now enjoy the marriage of taste and sight; indulging in both the creation and consumption of Rustica’s offering.
Curated by Lang and Head Chef, Sidney Tor, the new menu will comprise of old brekkie favourites such as Rustica’s famed lobster benedict and creamy coconut chia pudding to heartier evening options of pan-fried gnocchi with lemon ricotta & pea purée and fresh mint.
Evenings will feature a novel sourdough pizza menu alongside a local alcohol offering from breweries such as Bodriggy Brewing Co and Noble Boy, as well as selected wines from Polperro Winery in Red Hill.
Customers can whet their palate with a glass of wine whilst indulging in one of many unique pizzas, such as ‘nduja sausage, burrata, charred peach & broccoli.
Located on 501 Chapel Street, South Yarra, Rustica is open 7 days a week for breakfast & lunch and open all day from Thursdays through Sundays.