Vue de Monde Chef Shannon Bennett to Open His First Melbourne Burger Bar

While Shannon Bennett's best known for his work helming fine dining institutions like Vue de Monde, the acclaimed chef reminded us he can also make a pretty mean burger, launching Benny Burger within Sydney Airport's international terminal last April.

Now it's Melbourne's turn for a slice of the action, with Bennett set to unveil the first of three Victorian Benny Burger venues in Richmond this weekend. Officially opening its doors on Saturday, June 17, the Swan Street store's built on the same philosophy as the original, championing real ingredients, organic local produce and ethical practices.

The name pays homage to Bennett's father Benny, and the food menu is peppered with childhood memories of the homemade burgers he'd throw on the barbie each weekend. Speaking of, the menu is an impressive lineup of 11 burger varieties, a couple of all-day brekkie options, fries and daily salads. Get your hands around a classic beef-filled Mr Burns, or go meat-free with the beetroot and chickpea Yoga Burger.

There's even a cheeky reference to American Momofuku chef David Chang, who famously claimed "Australia has no idea what a burger is". He's invited to eat his words with The Chang, a hefty combo teaming beetroot relish, wagyu beef and a fried egg, with lots of other locally-sourced goodies.

Plus, to kick things off, the store will be slinging free burgers for the first 100 customers through the doors from 11am this Saturday, June 17. There'll be lots of burgers beyond that, as well as a live set from Kingswood at 7pm.

Benny Burger will open at 11am at 95 Swan Street, Richmond. For more info, visit bennyburger.com.au.