Studio Amaro
This Windsor spot is the Commune Group's latest project — a big Italian restaurant complete with its own DJ-fuelled basement bar.
Overview
They've taken us through the streets of Japan with Tokyo Tina, sent our tastebuds tripping across Vietnam with their Hanoi Hannah stable and, most recently, immersed us in modern Chinese flavours at their Balaclava diner Moonhouse.
Now, the Commune Group has hit its next global food tour stop with its latest project, Studio Amaro — an Italian bar and eatery based in Windsor.
The team has dived into unchartered territory in more ways than one, with this Chapel Street venue being its largest yet. It boasts a 100-seat dining room at ground level, leading down to a DJ-fuelled, subterranean drinking den with space for an extra 60.
Open from lunch through dinner and on into late-night revelry, this big corner site celebrates the classic flavours of Italy, with an offering that's bright and lively, yet steeped in simplicity. "Studio Amaro is our interpretation of Italian dining done in a very Melbourne way: communal, casual dining," explains the group's Creative Director Simon Blacher.
Along with the eats, the venue's music offering features a diverse lineup of artist residencies who grace the downstairs DJ decks, and plenty of focus is given to the overall sonic experience.
Meanwhile, Bergman & Co (La Fantaisie, Poodle, Chancery Lane) have looked after the interiors, delivering a warm, nostalgic setting complete with yellow corduroy banquettes.
Find Studio Amaro at 168 Chapel Street, Windsor. It's open daily from 12pm–late.
Images: Julia Sansone
Information
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