Coming Soon: Lulu, a Fuss-Free Neighbourhood Italian Restaurant in Malvern

Angus Brettingham-Moore opened Malvern’s Essie Wine Bar back in 2019. It was the first venue for the business owner, who previously worked at David Moyle’s Franklin in Hobart, and wine-centric Melbourne venues The Alps, Toorak Cellars, Milton Wine Shop and The Hills.

Next month he’ll open his second venue, Lulu, an Italian restaurant a few doors down from Essie on Station Street, Malvern.

“There’s a gap in the market for a local venue [where] you can have lunch and dinner – or come for a drink before something or come for a nightcap,” he tells Broadsheet.

The small spot will have a fuss-free Italian menu that includes fresh pasta made daily, house-made pizzas, small starters and a few desserts. Naturally, there will also be an extensive Italian wine list.

While the menu is Italian, Brettingham-Moore says the atmosphere will be reminiscent of restaurants that are part of London’s neighbourhood dining scene, which he admires for the charming atmospheres and consistent service. He hopes stepping into Lulu’s will “feel like stepping into somebody's home”.

The restaurant is in a former cafe and will soon have timber furniture throughout, a steel bar top and burgundy finishes.

Lulu is expected to open at 11 Station Street, Malvern in July 2024.

@lulumalvern