A cheeky new Italian all-day dining venue has come out to play, brought to the city by the team behind CBD institution Il Bacaro and South Yarra’s Bar Carolina – recognised restaurateur Joe Mammone and partners Michael Badr and Marco Tenuta.
“We’re looking to do something different here. When I think about Marameo — a playful Italian hand gesture — I think about a cheeky young girl running around creating mischief. That’s what we’re trying to create, a space where it’s all about having a good time,” says Mammone.
Esteemed hospitality design firm Chris Connell Design has transformed the space formerly housing Sarti to reflect Marameo’s playful character, with a bright palette of white marble, blonde timber, burnt orange leather and bottle green detailing.
An extensive dedicated bar space will accommodate all intents and drinking purposes, from weekday express lunch drop-ins for $15 spaghetti cacio e pepe, to pre- and post-theatre bites and catch-ups over salumi, formaggi and spritzes across the statement white Carrara marble bar.
For intimate dining, a banquette-lined 80-seat restaurant and two private dining spaces invite guests to settle into more substantial items from the menu by Head Chef Geoff Martin, including pasta made in-house daily and a considerable element from Marameo’s grill.
Delivering the Italian aperitivo, the north-west facing terrace encourages patrons to while away sunny afternoons well into the evening. Developed by Badr and Sommelier Tom Maiden (Jackalope), the drinks list offers a dedicated spritz section, a wide range of spirits, a concise cocktail list of elevated classics and house signatures like the four-month barrel-aged negroni, as well as a 300-strong wine list.
Whether visiting for a good time, a long time or anything in between, Marameo will offer a fresh and vibrant experience at the iconic Melbourne laneway site; patrons need only to enter through the white door and let the fun begin.
Images by Kris Paulsen.
