Overview
Good news for literally anyone who's sought a pre-Cinema Nova negroni recently — Johnny's Green Room is flipping its 'Closed' sign to 'Open' this December. After shutting its doors in July for months of hibernation, the much-adored rooftop oasis is set to spring back to life, bringing a taste of Roman summer energy to Carlton.
Owners Jamie Valmorbida and Luca Sbardella have joined forces with architect Dion Hall (known for his work at Music Room, Supernormal, Pidapipo Laboratorio and Rare Hare) to give the place a snazzy makeover. They're throwing in a semi-retractable roof too, because Melbourne weather.
Celebrity chef and author Karen Martini, who has taken on the role of Culinary Director, has whipped up an Italian-inspired menu that's all about sharing — which is great because food tastes better when it's pinched from someone else's plate. Expect a culinary journey from Carlton to the coasts of Italy, minus the jet lag.
As for the drinks, cocktail guru Matthew Bax (formerly Bar Americano) is crafting the cocktail list as an ode to Italian outdoor drinking. Think sophisticated yet cool sips with a side of people-watching — one of the oldest and greatest forms of entertainment.
Johnny's Green Room is set to re-open in mid-December. We'll let you know when the date is announced.