IT'S PERSONAL
Giraffe, the curious name of Simon Gault's new Viaduct eatery, came from a source dear to the top restaurateur's heart — his 3½-year-old daughter Hazel.
It fits perfectly, he says, in terms of the way he's approached the changing habits of his guests by opening up the kitchen so patrons feel as if they're eating at someone's home.
"Everything is in full view and transparent — a 'giraffe's-eye' view, if you like. By doing this, the diners feel connected to the chefs, the kitchen and the food itself," he says.
"We’ll welcome and treat them like they are guests in our house, get to know them and look after them."
The new all-day eatery, which opens next Thursday, June 15, marks Simon's return to the Viaduct following a two-year hiatus.
Its menu will be made up of smaller dishes and shared plates that will feature premium ingredients sourced from producers and growers the kitchen team knows personally and with whom it plans to build long-term relationships.
"As much as possible we know where our ingredients come from, who the people are behind those ingredients, and their back stories of quality, passion and pride in their products," Simon explains. "It’s all about personal connections."
The warm and inviting interior design by Paul Izzard (Blue Breeze Inn, Cassia) will have the feel of a modern home, with a palette featuring mustard yellow, tones of grey, with leather, tile and timber. Diners can either sit at tables or the counter top by the kitchen, and there will also be grazing areas for its less formal “Unplugged" menu. • Giraffe opens on Thursday, June 15, at 85-87 Customs St West, Viaduct Basin. Open seven days, from 7am until late.