Partners: Daniel, Jamal and Val Muhor with Natalie Spagnardi outside the Customs House basement.
By Michelle Herbison
A RESTAURANT will breathe new life into the disused basement of Geelong’s historic Customs House, council has revealed.
City of Greater Geelong’s Jeff Wall said the basement had been left vacant for years because it needed “significant upgrades”.
But the recent completion of the works meant the premises could now come back to life, he said.
Customs House’s two upper levels fronting Brougham St were in use but the restaurant would be the waterfront-facing basement’s first commercial tenant.
“Due to the heritage significance of Customs House all modifications to the building’s interior or exterior fabric must have Heritage Victoria approval, including the tenant’s fit out,” Mr Wall said.
The plans for the restaurant would be a “great contribution” to the area, he said.
Restaurant operator Natalie Spagnardi said heritage approvals were being finalised, with the opening date set for January.
She and partners Daniel, Jamal and Val Muhor, who operate Geelong’s Fish Bowl restaurant, planned a fine-dining experience with alfresco, lounge/bar and dining areas.
Ms Spagnardi said the business would honour the building’s history with the bar named 1856 in honour of the year Customs House was built.
“We have also themed the restaurant in old-Victorian style to create a cosy but regal atmosphere.”
Ms Spagnardi said the venue would focus on supporting local produce, wines and businesses.
“We want to offer somewhere for Geelong people to be able to go where there’s an inviting, relaxed environment with personalised service and quality local produce.”
Ms Spagnardi described the cuisine as “a cross between the Stokehouse Melbourne, Number 8 Crown and Rockpool Bar and Grill”.
