Chris Lucas, the restaurateur behind Chin Chin and Kisumé, will swing open the doors to his new Melbourne restaurant, Society, on 22 July.
Originally slated for a 2020 opening, the restaurant is three years in the making and a creative partnership with culinary figures chef Martin Benn and Vicki Wild.
Located in the 80 Collins precinct, the venue will be divided into two restaurants: Society Dining Room and Lillian Terrace, while guests can also opt for a seat in Society Lounge or in one of the various private dining spaces.
Each space has been curated by design firm Russell & George to create an intriguing experience for diners as they journey between the different areas.
“Society captures the energy of this great city, celebrating one of the country’s most significant chefs and the many talented Melbournians that have come together and created Society,” explains Lucas.
“I am proud of the design collaboration realised by Melbourne designers Russell & George, whose unique approach married so beautifully with our thoughts of what a modern restaurant should be.
“It is with great pride that we can finally look at opening our exciting new dining destination and add another dimension to Melbourne’s already incredible restaurant scene, which has been such a big part of my life.”
Benn has created a ‘choose your adventure’ style menu at Society Dining Room where guests can build their own six-course menu and select from dishes such as Albacore with shiso and rhubarb, Blackmore Wagyu beef rib cap served with wasabi butter, sweet onion & Japanese pickle.
Lillian Terrace harks back to Benn’s British roots and his earlier European cooking style, with favourites such as soy glazed roast duck leg with grilled cucumber, caviar lentils and apple or spice roasted crown of chicken cooked over coals.
The wine list is curated by Loic Avril whose cellars are on display for guests who wish to browse and enjoy before selecting.
Dining reservations are now open, while the venue will open for private event bookings from 16 August 2021.
