Coming Soon: Totti's Mike Eggert Is Opening a Throwback Japanese Restaurant in a Historic CBD Basement

The historic Bridge Street basement formerly home to Burns Philp & Co will be transformed into a nostalgic Japanese restaurant from beloved Sydney chef Mike Eggert. Merivale's latest opening will arrive in early 2024, with Good Luck Restaurant Lounge taking elements from Eggert's Totti's while celebrating big Japanese flavours.

The inspiration for the venue comes from a Good Luck Pinbone pop-up that Eggert ran back in 2017. This new CBD eatery will function as somewhat of a spiritual successor to that now-closed diner, incorporating a similar mix of Italian and Asian culinary techniques and dishes.

Mike Eggert, Steven Woodburn

"Pinbone leaned into a mix of Italian and Chinese cuisine, but Good Luck takes more inspiration from Tokyo," says Eggert. "Think Totti's, but then add soy, dashi, vinegar with fresh herbs, citrus and chilli."

Accentuating the menu will be a fitout that takes inspiration from 1970s Japan. Merivale boss Justin Hemmes took control of the space that once acted as a bustling lumberyard, with the goal of transforming it into a diner that transports you back to Tokyo some 50 years ago.

Expect to find live seafood tanks, two wine rooms, a bar, and a selection of both private and semi-private spaces accompanying the expansive Good Luck Restaurant Lounge dining room.

"It's going to be a fun vibe — maybe a bit wild but not stuffy or elitist. It's got that feel where you know you'll lose track of time... it's just great food with a side of party."

Good Luck Restaurant Lounge is set to open at 11 Bridge Street, Sydney in 2024. Follow its progress at the venue's Instagram.