Bar Familiar

Overview

Since news broke earlier this year that the Cam's Kiosk's former space wouldn't sit empty much longer, we've been waiting patiently for its successor to open. Wait no more, because Bar Familiar has just swung its doors open at Abbotsford Convent, bringing European ease, neighbourhood warmth, and a sense of openness to the Collingwood–Abbotsford border. 

Alessia Augello and Stephanie Lane are making their debut as hospo owners with Bar Familiar, but they are far from new to the industry. After working in the precinct for many years, Augello and Lane decided to make the jump to the other side of the business in hopes of creating something special, simple and welcoming for the community. 

"When the previous business closed, we found ourselves at a real crossroads. We knew how special the precinct was and how much the venue meant to the local community, and we saw an opportunity to create something new, whilst respecting the history and memories the community had," says Augello. 

Head Chef Alisha Grant, also intimately familiar with the space having worked in the precinct for many years, has developed a generous, no-fuss, all-day menu that follows the seasons. Grab sandwiches from the counter, made on fresh Baker Bleu bread. Sip your morning coffee slowly while savouring braised borlotti beans with soft eggs and salsa verde. Catch up with mates over a hearty bowl of vongole and mussels with chilli and garlic. 

Bar Familiar will trade Wednesday to Sunday, from 8am–3pm at first, with plans to commence evening service in late October. A playful drinks program led by Angello will emerge once trading hours are extended – expect not-so-serious list of cocktails, beers and rotating seasonal drinks. 

"Ultimately, this is a story about two friends backing themselves, taking a chance and building something we're genuinely proud to put our names behind," says Lane. "We're excited to create something that feels genuinely ours, while still being part of a place and community that means so much to us. We want people to come in, find their own way of using the space and, hopefully, make some new memories of their own."

Images: Sonny Witton. 

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