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It's been almost 18 months since Melbourne welcomed a new Chris Lucas restaurant (hello, Maison Bâtard), but that countdown clock will reset in October with the arrival of Wishbone – an all-day Hong Kong-inspired eatery located in the city's Midtown precinct.
Channelling the vibrant energy of Hong Kong's small restaurants and food stalls, the kitchen will be helmed by Dan Chan (Hong Kong's Yardbird), who has been leading the charge over at another Lucas Collective venue, Tombo Den. The menu – created in partnership between Lucas and Chan – will showcase the incredibly diverse and fun flavours of Hong Kong street food through a modern Aussie lens. Think a playful execution of classic dishes like dumplings and prawn toast, that draw on Chan's upbringing and his deep personal connection to the city.
“The development of the menu is very close to my heart and draws on my time in Hong Kong, as well as broader travel.” says Chan. “The food scene in Hong Kong has always been a brilliant, chaotic mix of influences – a bit eccentric, and a lot of fun. That’s what I want people to feel when they eat at Wishbone.”
The venue has been designed by Chris and Sarah Lucas in collaboration with DKO Architecture, and it's set to become one of the city's most eye-catching new additions. Red perspex stairs will be visible from the entrance on McKillop Street via gorgeous curved windows, with the lush red colour palette extending inside via retro furnishings and moody lights.
“Wishbone is going to bring in the influence of Hong Kong street food, but ultimately it’s about creating something that belongs
to Melbourne’s famed laneways,” says Lucas.
Wishbone will also feature a fully electric kitchen and some pretty advanced hospo technology, becoming one of the very first restaurants in Melbourne to operate within a Six Star Green Star-rated building.
Bookings will be announced closer to the October opening date, and we'll keep you updated on any further developments. Wishbone is located at 435 Bourke Street, with entry via McKillop Street.
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