Merivale has finally unveiled its much-anticipated ‘Middle Level’ of Coogee Pavilion, as well as further iteration of the ever-growing ivy and Hemmes’ proposition to reinvigorate Sydney’s nightlife.
Five years after purchasing the Coogee venue, late 2019 Justin Hemmes’ Merivale design team finally unveiled plans for the middle floor of the Pavilion, which had lay dormant while the street level offerings and rooftop continued to thrive.
The final area would incorporate three distinct and well-considered spaces deserving of the location and complementing the success of its vertical neighbours.
Mimi’s is a restaurant “fit for the vista” offering cool, calm interiors, framed by arched windows presenting ocean views and sea breezes. The menu delivers seafood, meat and fresh produce, with grills from the Josper, and a broad selection of wines. The name stems from Merivale Hemmes’ nickname within the family, Mimi.
Will’s is a cocktail bar with charm and a European-styled drinks list, taking cues from the Italian coastline and its name from Mr John, whose birthname was William Hemmes.
Una Más is a wine and tapas bar with a Mediterranean soul, inviting walk-ins and locals for a quick bite or casual stay, over a menu flavoured by both Spain and Australia.
All three spaces are shaped and guided by the cooking philosophy of executive chef Jordan Toft (Bert’s, Bar Topa), based in a unique style of dining inspired by a Mediterranean heart through an Australian lens.
In the CBD, the group continues ambitious plans for flagship ivy and its diverse collection of spaces and experiences.
In the recent footsteps of ivy’s new Little Felix, a “spirited younger brother” to Merivale’s successful Bondi eatery Totti’s is now open in the George street precinct venue.
Bar Totti’s continues its ancestral legend of wood-fired bread, but with a focus on house-made antipasti and snacks to match the vivacity of the CBD bar. Chefs Mike Eggert and Jake Ahrens (Ash St Cellar, Uccello) have expanded the antipasti list to more than 20, and snacks done ‘alla griglia’ (grilled).
The space is minimalist, with white-washed walls and natural timbers. It comprises two areas, one centred around an expansive horseshoe bar and high-top tables, the second opening directly onto George Street, with big windows that flood in natural light and casual appeal.
The drinks follow suit, reflecting simple, retro-Italian-inspired favourites, with a greater focus on spritzes and after-dinner cocktails.
Bar Totti’s is walk-in only, open midday to late every day, with no set lunch or dinner hours.
It is the latest stage in Merivale’s expansion plans for ivy and its ongoing campaign to revitalise the nightlife in Sydney so negatively affected by the lockout laws – the repeal of which (in the CBD only) was finally enacted last week, after six years stifling trade in licensed venues.
Full programme of Merivale’s This Is Sydney events HERE.
