The team behind Bar Liberty will breathe new life into Carlton institution The Beaufort (formerly Clare Castle Hotel) when they open Capitano this August.
Owners Michael Bascetta, Banjo Harris Plane, Manu Potoi and Casey Wall boast some serious pedigree and can lay claim to some of Melbourne’s most-loved venues, including Rockwell and Sons and Above Board, in addition to the award-winning Bar Liberty.
Their new offering revives the Rathdowne St venue into a warm and approachable space and will serve a menu of Italian favourites, mixed with influences from the US and Australia.
A core emphasis of the food menu will be a rotating selection of pizzas, supported by an ever-changing list of pasta. A sharing style lasagna and a selection of dry-aged steaks will also feature, alongside a fun dessert menu – chef Casey Wall’s take on Italian cuisine, utilising Australian ingredients.
The Capitano bar is set to become a destination in its own right – presenting a unique take on classic Italian cocktails and an impressive selection of Amari – while sommelier and co-owner Harris Plane will curate a wine list full of fun, juicy Italian varietals sourced locally and internationally.
The space itself has also undergone a makeover, with terrazzo tile flooring and a gentle nod to old-world Italy in its muted green and red colour scheme and art deco light fittings. A hardwood bar runs down the centre of the room, dividing it into two distinct spaces, where guests can perch and enjoy a drink and a snack, or settle into the dining room.
Capitano will be open 7 days from 5pm until late on weekdays and from 12pm until late on Saturdays and Sundays, carrying on the local legacy of this true inner-Melbourne institution. It opens for trade on 15 August.
