The young duo has collaborated for their first restaurant, which, since July, has been a prominent addition to the vibrant Melbourne dining scene.

Located in an unassuming, heritage-listed former burlesque lounge, the concept of Lûmé encompasses two spaces providing distinct yet equally high-end offerings. A charming and low-lit ambient 40-seat restaurant with an 18 – 20 course tasting menu, and a bustling 40-seat speakeasy style bar with a dedicated food offering. The bar menu features an authentic produce driven sharing style menu and a signature cocktail list that showcases surprising textures, flavours and distinctly unique serving vessels.

Such a specific vision for dining required a space design with a matching look and feel, which is where Melbourne’s studioY comes into the picture, creating a fit-out that is timeless, earthy and detailed.

Marble tables are scattered throughout the atrium, which itself is freshened with a cultivated vertical herb garden and the prominence of a live lemon tree that grows as a centerpiece in the space.

Contrasting timber tables located in the main dining area, are complimented by locally sourced pendant and clay lighting, which provides the low-light ambience and atmospheric charm the space required.

“We are creating an atmosphere for a completely interactive experience that will encourage dialogue between kitchen, bar and guests,” says co-owner Shaun Quade “With an open, visible, working kitchen, diners will feel as though they’re sitting right at the chef’s table”

The approach at Lûmé allows for the element of surprise, and presentation of the menu will be left until the very end of the experience. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the food purely with their palates, rather than on print, and ideally not through the lens of their cameras.

Adding to this sense of surprise and fun, Maître’d Sally Humble and sommelier Brodie Comer have created a thoughtful wine selection that is both eclectic and classic. The young team has decided on a list that cares purely about quality, yet incorporates whimsy and playfulness much like their style of service.

Lûmé
restaurantlume.com

studioY
studioy.com.au