Lo Presti’s

There's been a lot of love for Greek restaurants in Sydney lately, so it's no surprise that one of our most anticipated openings of July is Lo Presti's—the first solo venture from chef Michael Lo Presti and front-of-house expert Rachael Trewin. You might already know the pair from Marrickville favourite Baba's Place, where they worked together as head chef and venue manager, but this latest project represents something far more personal.

"The concept behind the restaurant is Rachael and I's ideal dining experience—highlighting all our favourite aspects of dining out, from the way that we like to eat and drink, to what we prioritise in good service, fitout and music," Michael tells Urban List.

"We've worked with each other on and off over the last 10 years, and it had always been a loose plan, but mid last year we decided to pull the trigger."

Taking over the former Moon Park site in Redfern, Lo Presti's is a Mediterranean-inspired neighbourhood restaurant that leans into the generosity of Greek hospitality. Named after Michael's father's restaurant of the same name from the 1980s, the venue is built around the idea that the best meals are shared—whether that's with family, friends or the locals who'll hopefully become both.

"The restaurant itself is being put together as much as we can by ourselves, or by utilising talented friends and family. We really wanted the people closest to us to feel like they've contributed to the space as well," Michael says.

That community spirit runs through every detail. The logo is based on sketches Michael's father drew for the original Lo Presti's, the artwork comes courtesy of his sister Gabriella and close friends, while the interiors have been designed by emerging architects Eligh Wilson and Mungo McGregor.

The menu takes its cues from across the Mediterranean, with an emphasis on vegetables, seafood and generous shared plates. Expect house-made halloumi with fermented honey and lemon, grilled fish and octopus, alongside a Portuguese-inspired pork chop with clams and white wine—a dish Michael says he's particularly excited to share.

Behind the bar, long-time friend Paul Guiney of South End has assembled a wine list that moves between natural and classic producers, while Oliver Churcher and Claudia "Beryl" Morgan of Bar Demo have created a concise cocktail list featuring drinks like an ouzo Sazerac and a martini perfumed with bay leaf and lemon oil.

Beyond the dining room, the wraparound terrace overlooking Redfern Oval will have a life of its own. Open for drinks and snacks across the weekend, it's designed to become a spot you can wander into for an afternoon aperitivo, stay for dinner or simply settle in with a glass of wine as the neighbourhood drifts by.

While Lo Presti's officially opens next month, the duo will offer a sneak peek of the menu during a one-day pop-up at Bar Demo on Sunday 28 June.

Image credit: Lo Presti's | Instagram