Elio’s Place: A Taste of European Charm on Flinders Lane
When Adam and Elisa Mariani first burst onto Melbourne's food scene with Mayday in Richmond back in 2016, it was clear they had a knack for creating neighbourhood gems that felt like home. I remember stopping by Mayday for what was meant to be a quick coffee, but after chatting with Adam, that quick stop turned into an in-depth conversation about their vision. Since then, they’ve continued to shape Melbourne’s dining landscape, opening Maverick and Greta in the CBD—both of which have become beloved spots in their own right. Now, they’ve taken their most ambitious step yet with Elio’s Place.
Place mentioned
Elio’s Place
A Sibling Duo’s Tribute to Family
Named after their late father, Elio, the venue captures the Mariani family’s deep-rooted love for Italian hospitality. Located in the historic Flinders House on Flinders Lane, this all-day European-inspired bistro blends old-world charm with contemporary flair, creating a space that feels both familiar and fresh.
Adam and Elisa have a way of turning spaces into destinations, and Elio’s Place is no exception. Their vision has always been to create welcoming environments where people can gather at any time of day, and this latest venture is a testament to that ethos. “Elio’s Place will be a bistro that transitions seamlessly from early morning through to late night,” Elisa explains. “Everyone is welcome, whether you’re dropping in for a coffee, enjoying an a la carte lunch, or winding down with a late-night supper.”
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition
In the kitchen, group executive chef Gareth Flood, who has been with the Mariani duo since their Mayday days, is joined by Florence-born Matilde Razzoli, known for her work at Bar Liberty and Capitano. Together, they’ve crafted a menu that pays homage to European classics while embracing the freshness and creativity Melbourne diners crave.
Expect dishes that tell a story, like the cabbage skewer with butter emulsion and espelette—a nod to rustic Italian flavours with a modern twist. Other standouts include the beef carpaccio with celery and aged parmesan, and the whole flounder served with burnt lemon and bottarga.
And let’s not forget the aperitivo hour. From 3 pm to 5 pm daily, Elio’s Place embraces this beloved European tradition, offering drinks and snack-sized plates that make for the perfect late afternoon indulgence.
An Atmosphere Steeped in History and Style
The venue’s interior, designed by Studio Co & Co, is as much a part of the experience as the food. When you walk into Elio’s Place, you’re greeted by a warm caramel-coloured front bar that invites you to stay awhile. The dining area, with its smoky sky blue hue and timber table tops, creates a cosy yet sophisticated setting. Traditional marquetry artwork lines the walls, adding a touch of nostalgia, and one piece in particular—a scene from Adam and Elisa’s father’s hometown of Tocco da Casauria—serves as a personal connection to their family’s roots.
Elio’s Place is more than just a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt homage to the past, brought to life in a modern Melbourne setting. Open from 7 am until late, seven days a week, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, or dinner.
When Adam and Elisa Mariani first burst onto Melbourne's food scene with Mayday in Richmond back in 2016, it was clear they had a knack for creating neighbourhood gems that felt like home. I remember stopping by Mayday for what was meant to be a quick coffee, but after chatting with Adam, that quick stop turned into an in-depth conversation about their vision. Since then, they’ve continued to shape Melbourne’s dining landscape, opening Maverick and Greta in the CBD—both of which have become beloved spots in their own right. Now, they’ve taken their most ambitious step yet with Elio’s Place.
