Chris Lucas expands his vision for French bistro Batard
Restaurateur Chris Lucas is expanding his upcoming French bistro project, Batard by taking the lease on next door property 23 Bourke Street.
Batard is under construction at 19-21 Bourke Street, and will now open mid-next year across the two heritage-listed buildings.
The new site once housed Society, which was once one of the city's great dining institutions. Opening in the 1930s, Society continued to trade under various names and owners until 2016.
The three-level building most recently housed an upscale restaurant and sports bar by Ettamogah Pub group, which closed within a year.
“It was a rare opportunity to extend my thoughts and ideas beyond what I had originally planned for the corner site,” said Lucas. “Melbourne has too few buildings left from this era, so I really couldn't say no.”
Batard’s expanded vision includes an oyster bar and rotisserie section as well as a wine bar and wine store.
"Our wine philosophy will underpin the venue," said Lucas.
"I'm really looking forward to bringing these old buildings back to life and being a neighbour to some old friends who I greatly respect. Hopefully I can in a small way be part of the next chapter of this beautiful part of Melbourne."
Sheridan Randall, 18th June 2019
