Image Credit: Chandler Feddern
Hutt Street is set to welcome an exciting new addition to its dining scene with the launch of Latteria, an aperitivo bar and cocktail lounge that promises to bring a slice of Italy to South Australia.
Spearheaded by the dynamic duo behind the beloved Osteria Oggi, Nicola Pau and Luca Baioni, alongside renowned chefs Max O’Callaghan and Rhys Nicholson, Latteria aims to fuse the nostalgic charm of 1950s Italian ‘Latterie Milanesi’ with a contemporary Adelaidean flair.
Latterie Milanesi, the cornerstone of northern Italian communities from the 1950s through the ’90s, served as more than just eateries; they were gathering spots where generations came together, sharing in the joy and warmth of good company and great food.
Although these establishments have faded into history, their spirit lives on in Adelaide’s upcoming Latteria.
Nicola, a key figure at Osteria Oggi, reminisces, “Luca and I grew up going to latterias, hanging out with our friends. We wondered, ‘what if latterias were still around today, and how would they look in Adelaide?’. Bringing that sense of community and joy here, to Hutt Street, is something we’re truly excited about.”
Luca, with his impressive bartending background from venues like Jerry Thomas Speakeasy in Rome and Black Pearl in Melbourne, as well as his role as a brand ambassador for Campari Group, is set to ensure Latteria’s cocktails are both creative and customer-focused.
“We’re working on the ‘Best Cosmo Ever’,” he promises, highlighting a drink menu that will feature handcrafted cocktails alongside a curated selection of local and Italian wines.
The food at Latteria, curated by co-head chefs Max O’Callaghan and Rhys Nicholson, will embrace the essence of Italian bar dining with a focus on simple, fresh, local small plates inspired by traditional street fare.
This modern interpretation of classic European snack culture is designed to complement the drinking experience, featuring items like the Milanese Cotoletta for those seeking something more substantial. “The culinary ethos at Latteria is all about relaxed, shared dining experiences typical of Italian bars,” explains Rhys, emphasizing the casual yet refined approach to the menu.
The venue itself, a stunning conversion of a combined former bank and betting agency branch on the corner of Hutt Street, is brought to life by the acclaimed studio-gram. It will boast a double-faced central cocktail bar, high ceilings, and an intimate lounge area perfect for enjoying regular DJ sets.
With outdoor seating under the canopies of Hutt Street, Latteria is set to make the most of Adelaide’s sunny days and balmy nights.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, 11th April, when Latteria opens its doors, inviting Adelaide to experience the timeless allure of Italian aperitivo culture with a unique, local twist.
For more info, click here.