The rumours are true — Pinbone’s Mike Eggert is heading up a new Mediterranean eatery at The Royal Hotel in Bondi.
Described as an evolution of Eggert’s Dirty Italian Disco pop-up at the Tennyson Hotel, Totti’s revolves around house-made bread and charcuterie, wood-fired meats and pasta.
“It’s visual, aromatic and very hands on,” says Eggert. “We want it to feel really communal, where people see a table full of little plates and fresh bread and immediately want to tuck in and have fun.”
The menu is split into four sections — breads, cheese and charcuterie; pasta; protein and Italian desserts.
While dishes haven’t been confirmed just yet, diners can expect seafood and meat-based pastas along with vegetarian and vegan options.
Chicken, fish, schnitzel and house-made sausages will be cooked over charcoal, with sides consisting of polenta and fresh salads.
Dessert will revolve around Italian classics covering tiramisu, sorbet and a Neapolitan ice cream sandwich.
Eggert will be joined in the kitchen by former Rockpool chef Khan Danis who began working with Merivale mid-year, spending time at Coogee Pavilion before making the move to Bondi.
Drinks are care of Sam Egerton, who has put together a collection of 50 wines plus retro Italian beverages.
Further details will be announced shortly.