Overview
At 131 Leicester Street in Coorparoo, embracing Italian-style neighbourhood joints keeps working a charm. First came Ramona Trattoria, which gave the area an inexpensive and casual restaurant featuring traditional meals. After that eatery proved a hit, chef and owner Ashley-Maree Kent has now launched sibling spot Bar Rocco, an osteria that's all about pairing drinks with bites — Italian cocktails, wines and beers for the former, and shareable snacks for the latter.
"The concept is a natural next step following the opening of Ramona Trattoria," explains Kent, after debuting her first Leicester Street venture in 2022 and then Bar Rocco at the end of 2023.
"It is a response to what our patrons are calling out for — a lively and charming place to come together over relaxed and traditional Italian flavours."
Kent describes Bar Rocco as "a welcoming place for locals to enjoy a friendly European atmosphere over a late-afternoon drink or an exquisite culinary experience in a more casual setting".
And, it too is born of her enthusiasm for Italy's culinary offerings, with the European Australian restaurateur noting that it reflects her "passion for crafting authentic Italian dishes while adding a twist of playfulness and charm".
Seating 40, Bar Rocco's wine list and cocktail options are reason enough to stop by; however, so is the Mediterranean-inspired, wood-fired food. Matching its eats and drinks perfectly is one of the venue's key aims, whether you're enjoying burrata with oxheart tomatoes and wood-roasted peach, barbecue swordfish, a gluten-free torte made with Italian dark chocolate, or prawn or flatbread dishes.
The community vibe that's such a significant part of its big sister is also a driving factor at bar Rocco, especially in the al fresco area surrounded by greenery — and featuring street views.
Kent's latest venture comes after she set up Roma Trattoria in Coorparoo fresh from Coolangatta's Cross-Eyed Mary, and joins a resume that also boasts time at everywhere from Quay, Three Blue Ducks and Biota through to Tartine Bakery and Paper Daisy.
Find Bar Rocco at 131 Leicester Street, Coorparoo — open from 4.30pm Wednesday–Sunday. Visit the venue's website for further details.