Chris Lucas of hospitality group Lucas Restaurants has announced he will make his first foray into the Canberra dining scene this year with the opening of Mediterranean eatery Carlotta.
Slated to open in spring in the CBD’s Scotts Crossing precinct, the 150-seat Carlotta is expected to focus on local Canberran produce, boast a timeless design, contemporary menu, and vibrant energy.
The venue will be a collaboration between Lucas and QIC (Queensland Investment Corporation) whose last team-up saw the launch of Melbourne’s 80 Collins Street precinct which features Society Dining Room, Lillian Brasserie, and Yakimono.
“I’ve witnessed from afar how exciting and energetic the Canberra food scene has become, and I can’t wait to open Carlotta and work with the incredible array of local producers, growers and hospitality talent,” says Lucas.
“QIC share my vision for working with like-minded creatives to develop exciting precincts with world-class restaurants and bars that set the benchmark for Australian design excellence.”
Carlotta will be Lucas’ first venue in the capital city, and follows his portfolio of established restaurants Chin Chin, Grill Americano, and Kisumé.
It’s Lucas’ second time venturing out of Sydney and Melbourne, with the restaurateur announcing earlier this year a regional outpost of his famed Chin Chin in Victoria’s Geelong which opens this week.
Carlotta is currently undergoing construction, with more information on team, menu, and opening dates to be revealed ahead of the launch this spring.