Overview
Jason M. Jones and Brahman Perera (Entrecôte and Hopper Joint) have just opened a new bar in Prahran, inspired by the 1958 cult classic musical Gigi — which they both have a great childhood love for.
You'll find Gigi hidden down a bluestone laneway off Greville Street, decked out with velvet banquettes, antique crystal chandeliers, Persian carpets and hand-painted walls by artist Melissa Macfarlane.
It has a whimsical camp feel and really screams old-world luxury without being gaudy or over the top. This elegantly flows through from the salon to the galerie space and into its open-air terrace. No doubt, Perera has overseen this playful fitout, for he also designed Hopper Joint, which opened earlier this year.
Complementing the interiors, you'll find an extensive Euro-centric wine list that's been curated the Entrecote's sommeliers — covering everything from grower champagnes and Burgundy classics to Aussie pet nats and pinot noirs.
Cocktails also get a good workout, including classic European sips and signature creations like the espresso martini made with popcorn-infused whisky, the Parisian Spritz that features a mandarin liqueur, and the signature Gigi cocktail made with sweet pea syrup, gin, elderflower and lemon.
Digestifs, fortified wines, beers, ciders and mocktails round out the bev lineup, but we're sure most will be visiting Gigi for wine and cocktails.
Keeping you from wandering off for a feed, the team has also dreamt up a long selection of snacks — available until late in the night. This includes oysters, caviar bumps, tuna tartare tartlets, beef party pies, sausage rolls and a miniature version of Entrecôte's famed cheeseburger.
Co-Owner Jason M. Jones shared, "We're thrilled to be open and bringing Gigi to life here on Greville Street.
"This place holds a special meaning for me — I celebrated my 21st birthday dinner upstairs when it was the Greville Bar. Now, we've created something new, but with that same sense of fun and nostalgia.
"Gigi is all about escape and indulgence. We want our guests to step in, forget the outside world and lose themselves in a little Parisian magic."
You'll find Gigi at 143 Greville Street, Prahran, open 5pm–late from Wednesday–Sunday. The bar doesn't take bookings but you can find more details at the venue's website.