After initially launching as a pocket concept inside Heartbreaker bar, Connie’s Italian Diner & Rooftop Terrazza is moving up to higher ground in Melbourne.
Made in the Shade Group will open the doors to Connie’s on 21 April in the space directly above Heartbreaker.
Matteo D’Elia is helming the 100-seat restaurant as head chef after time at Michelin star restaurants in London, with the chef creating new additions as well as putting ‘Grandma style’ pizzas back on the menu.
Guests can look forward to dishes including antipasto, veal tonnato, lobster linguine and eggplant parmigiana, to name a few.
“The Connie’s concept is grounded in a love of traditional home cooking and a feel-good, warm and welcoming atmosphere, an inspiration of mine from growing up in an Italian family where generosity and food is what brings everyone together,” says Michael Madrusan, co-founder of Made in the Shade Group.
“I love that we can give Connie’s its own space and brand finally, and showcase something super close to my heart.”
Drinks will of course play a pivotal role at Connie’s, with classic and sparkling cocktails available by the bottle and on-tap.
“Whether you’re looking for something more refined like a Negroni or something lively like a pitcher of Fruit Cup, you can be assured there’ll be a killer drinks list to suit all tastes,” says Madrusan.
Connie’s will also offer bench seating on the rooftop in conjunction with the indoor restaurant space, with terrace guests able to order from the main menu and try Italian sausage and peppers from a weekend BBQ offering.
Made in the Shade Co-Founder Zara Madrusan says there’s something for everyone at the group’s new addition.
“We’ve created a space that caters to all, from family dining early evening through to late night good times on the dance floor,” she says.
Connie’s will open Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm until late.