Chris Lucas signs lease on Becco site

Restaurateur Chris Lucas will take over the lease at the site of historic Melbourne restaurant Becco in 2021.

The site of the long-standing Italian restaurant on a narrow laneway at the top end of Melbourne’s CBD sits between Teague Ezard’s Gingerboy and espresso bar Pellegrini’s.

"I have signed a long-term lease for the site currently known as Becco at 11-25 Crossley Street, which will take effect in 2021," Lucas said in a statement.

"I'd like to state that we must respect the fact that the site is currently leased to Simon [Hartley], who has successfully run Becco for almost 20 years and has made it one of Melbourne's most admired and respected restaurants."

Hartley will be moving Becco to a new home when his lease expires in two years.

Lucas will open a number of new ventures in the coming years including French restaurant and bar Batard and new fine diner from the Sepia team at the upcoming 80 Collins development.

Sheridan Randall - 13-08-19