This Just in: Andrew McConnell Will Open a European Grill Inspired by the Basque Coast Next Year, in a Heritage Restaurant Space Steeped in Legacy
McConnell's latest venture, located on Crossley Street, will offer a European grill that channels the flavours and vibes of the Basque coast.
This just in — legendary restaurateur and chef Andrew McConnell, and partner Jo McGann, have announced plans for the opening of their next restaurant, set to arrive in Melbourne mid-next year. Côte Basque, located on Crossley Street, will offer a European grill that channels the flavours and vibes of the Basque coast.
"The name references our love of Basque culture and the coastline that bridges the northern Basque region of Spain and the southwest of France. The raw beauty of the region and a bounty of benchmark produce have long been an inspiration for us," says McConnell.
Côte Basque will find its home in the former Becco site in the CBD. The restaurant, with a capacity for approximately 100 patrons, will retain certain original architectural features, including the green terrazzo floor, large street-level windows, and the stepped dining room and intimate bar.
In collaboration with Vince Alafaci and Caroline Choker of ACME, McConnell has designed the interiors to pay respect to the legacy of the Becco venue (which was previously home to Pellegrini's) and reflect the mid-century features of the building. New additions will include outdoor dining and a private room on the first floor, designed for leisurely lunches, lively dinners, and intimate gatherings.
Côte Basque is the first new restaurant from McConnell and McGann's Trader House group since the inimitable Gimlet at Cavendish House made its grand entrance into Melbourne's dining scene in 2020.
Gimlet at Cavendish House
McConnell says, "The tradition of woodfired cooking that defines this region will be central to the menu and influence not only what we cook, but how we cook…It has been both a joy and a challenge reimagining this iconic space to both retain its legacy and evolve it for the future. We don't have many heritage restaurant spaces in Melbourne, and to have the opportunity to restore the original features in this room is a dream. To continue its lineage as a restaurant will contribute to the wonderful energy on Crossley Street, re-emerging as one of the great walk-through laneways in Melbourne's top end."
Gimlet at Cavendish House
Feature image: James Geer.
Côte Basque is slated to open in winter 2026. In the meantime, check out the best restaurants in Melbourne.
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