usiness partners Gerald Diffey and Mario Di Lenno, of Gerald’s Bar in Carlton North, aim to bring the theatre back to the floor in their new CBD bar and dining establishment due for an October launch.

Recruiting Embrasse chef Nicolas Poelaert (who will also co-own) and MoVida’s Paul Guiney as general manager, people can expect an “experienced, professional team doing something mature and fun,” says Diffey of his new city venture, Brooks.

Looking to breathe “some of Gerald’s soul into the city”, this is a place where you can “dine at the level you want to”, whether that be walking in off the street for a drink and nibble or booking a group degustation.

Situated off Collins Street in what was previously Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen and then The Kitchen Cat opposite il Solito Posto, the basement-level space has been given an aesthetic lift, offering clientele a generous bar with two dining rooms, one private room and old-fashioned service.

The menu will feature around seven house dishes, with Poelaert given licence to rotate 10 or so seasonal offerings as he chooses.

We’re looking forward to seeing what this hospitality dream team come up with in this new locale.