A new dining experience is set to open in Melbourne’s stylish Emporium precinct, bringing a new restaurant-to-retail concept to the ever-growing precinct. Calia, named after an old lady that Michelin Star chef Francisco Javier Araya met in Spain, will open early this year. The new venue will allow diners to “try before they buy” from the sustainability-minded menu, sampling high-quality restaurant produce that is also available to take home at affordable prices.
The Japanese-inspired menu also takes its cues from the best and most ethical produce available, like the red snapper ceviche, Wagyu MB7 on rice with an onsen egg, shiso and daigon orashi, and a decadent rock lobster criossant with mayo-miso, green apple, fennel and radish. A strong example of what guests can expect from the forthcoming restaurant
The sashimi rice-bowl (Kaisen Don) selection has been created with tiered options leading up to the “ultimate” choice of langoustine, scallop, abalone, toro, salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, caviar, salmon roe, uni and wasabi.
Suppliers were selected with care, where all produce and food products were chosen for their environmentally friendly statuses (Manuka Honey and Milked Osetra Caviar). Top seafood supplier Mark Eather has teamed up with Calia, making this his first-ever retail partnership with the restaurant.
Other luxe suppliers include Robbins Island Wagyu beef, Flinders Island Wagyu beef and meat, Yarra Valley Truffles,Red Hill Truffles and Coffee by Seven Seeds. Pastries and bread will be provided by Chez Dre, with sweets by Bibelot.
Once open, Calia will also run interactive masterclasses, workshops and educational events. Other events planned for the space include wine tasting, sake appreciation and private dining experiences.
Calia Restaurant
Address: Emporium Melbourne, 287 Lonsdale Street
Contact: (03)8609 8221
Hours: Open 7 days, Mon – Wed & weekends 10am – 7pm; Thurs – Fri 10am – 9pm
Images supplied.
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