Merivale has done it again, and this time around they’re making grounds in the beachside town of Lorne, along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. The powerhouse hospitality group are taking much-loved Italian eatery Totti’s, across states, set to open on the ground floor of the iconic Lorne Hotel in February 2023.
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With Totti’s bringing so much success in NSW, with the likes of Totti’s Bondi, Totti’s Rozelle, Bar Totti’s in the Sydney CBD, and Totti’s Pasta Bar at Allianz Stadium, it’s no surprise that it’s managed to wedge its way further south. With the Merivale powerhouse deciding to create the fifth outpost of the brand, not only are they spreading their wings, but they’re also spreading the delicious food and good vibes they are known for to the people of Victoria.
Totti’s Lorne is the first stage of Merivale’s plans to rejuvenate the Lorne Hotel after acquiring the pub back in May 2021. Lorne Hotel is an institution in the sleepy town, nestled on Victoria’s stunning Surf Coast — a surfer’s paradise and popular stop for tourists thanks to its location along the iconic Great Ocean Road. Totti’s Lorne will contribute to the town’s growing tourism scene, create further career opportunities for locals and support other businesses within the community, along with being a new, exciting spot in the small town to dine out and enjoy a few bevs — what could be better?
In true Totti’s style, the restaurant will bring quality, no-fuss Italian flare to the Surf Coast. The menu will be led by two of Merivale’s Executive Chefs, Totti’s creator Mike Eggert and Surf Coast local, Matt Germanchis and will feature all your favourites like the famed woodfired bread, antipasti and house-made pasta, as well as showcasing the region’s local seafood produce; from calamari, mussels, crayfish to King George Whiting. In terms of drinks, expect all your classics, with an emphasis on local Victorian vineyards and producers.
“Totti’s is a restaurant where you can walk off the beach for a quick bite and glass of wine or stay for a long lunch with friends and families, which fits Lorne to a tee and pairs perfectly with the ‘choose your own adventure’ nature of the menu,” Merivale executive chef, Mike Eggert said. I cannot wait to build a menu with Matt Germanchis that heroes the local producers he has longstanding relationships with, and the unicorn finds around this region. Matt is a gifted chef, the collaboration between his expertise in woodfire cooking, extensive knowledge of the local seafood and Totti’s classic menu is a match made in heaven.”
Nestled in a tranquil bush setting with panoramic views overlooking Louttit Bay and the beach foreshore, no matter whether you’re a Lorne local or just passing through, you know where to go for laid-back, approachable dining in 2023.
