Neil and Samantha Perry announce Gran Torino Italian in Double Bay

Neil and Samantha Perry have announced they will replace their Double Bay Chinese restaurant Song Bird with new Italian venue Gran Torino.

Spread over two floors, the ground floor aperitivo menu will follow a classic Italian bar setup, with bellinis, martinis, bitter vermouths, and a selection of snacks and small plates.

Upstairs will be a 100-seat restaurant with a selection of antipasti, fresh pastas, mains of seafood and meats, and Italian desserts.

“The change to Gran Torino will be a better fit with Margaret, and the more approachable menu and laidback setting will have people wanting to return time and time again for drinks, casual bites, and celebrations,” says Neil.

The restaurateur last month refuted claims that Song Bird was closing. In the same statement, he confirmed he was relinquishing the top floor of Gaden House, which was originally intended as an event space and a la carte restaurant, to see it repurposed as private office space.

“With Song Bird, we missed the mark by creating a three-level Chinese restaurant in Double Bay. Now, we’ve got the size right over two levels and – just as importantly – acoustics that have finally been tamed, we’re ready to move forward into a new future,” says Neil.

Margaret Family Executive Chef Richard Purdue will oversee the kitchen with current Margaret Head Chef Ervin Mumujesi. Song Bird Head Chef Mark Lee will return to Margaret as head chef alongside Perry.

Song Bird’s final service will be held on 3 August, and Gran Torino will open on Saturday 9 August.

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