This Just In: A South Yarra Favourite Enters a New Era Under the Experienced Hands of Hospitality Stalwart Karen Martini
Just in time for warmer days, Bar Carolina and Tetto di Carolina are set to open with a refreshed vibe.
As spring brings a breath of fresh air, South Yarra's Bar Carolina enters a fresh new chapter under the ownership of renowned Melbourne chef and restaurateur Karen Martini. This latest venture marks Martini and partner Michael Sapountsis' first independent foray since 2020.
The change in ownership came about naturally through conversations between outgoing owner Joe Mammone and Martini. Martini notes that "Joe did such an amazing job, and this feels like a natural progression." While the classic fit-out by Chris Connell will remain mostly unchanged, the kitchen has seen major upgrades, amplifying its capacity.
The all-day dining offering will be built around Karen Martini's signature exploration of both northern and southern Italian cuisine. Kick off long lunches and leisurely dinners with cicchetti, small snacks and plates such as stuffed and crumbed olives and pizza fritta with vinegar salt and whipped cod roe. Antipasti like focaccia with brown butter mayo and anchovies, and beef carpaccio will follow, before diners move on to house-made pastas such as tagliarini with blue swimmer crab, and Josper-grilled proteins.
"This particular pocket of South Yarra is iconic," Martini says. "I'm excited to add to the vibrancy of the street and to share our hospitality along with great food and wine. Hopefully, it feels like a very personal expression of our love of Italian food and culture."
Bar Carolina will reopen under Martini's leadership on Thursday, September 18. The buzzy rooftop bar, Tetto di Carolina, will reopen in time for summer with a new snack menu and summery seasonal cocktails.
Images: Chege Mbuthi.
Bar Carolina will commence trading Tuesday through Sunday from lunch until late. If you're looking for more, check out the best Italian restaurant in Melbourne.
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