Can Mulberry Group's Coupette Revolutionize Dining in Southbank?

Coupette, the new all-day café and bistro from Nathan Toleman’s Mulberry Group, is set to transform a previously overlooked area between South Melbourne and Southbank into a vibrant neighbourhood hub. With its Euro-inspired menu and inviting design, Coupette aims to be both a local favourite and a destination for food lovers.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Coupette opened its doors just before Christmas and has quickly garnered attention for its carefully crafted menu and inviting atmosphere. Located at the corner of Queensbridge, the café and bistro represents a significant step in the evolution of the Hannah St Hotel, which also features four other venues. This strategic positioning within a revitalised area aims to attract not just hotel guests but also local residents looking for quality dining options.

Key takeaways

• Coupette offers an all-day menu blending French and Italian influences.
• The venue is part of the newly opened Hannah St Hotel, designed by Flack Studio.
• Signature dishes include blue swimmer crab omelette and steak frites.
• The design features marble, brass, and bespoke lighting, creating a warm atmosphere.
• The bar menu includes innovative cocktails and a rotating wine selection.

Timeline: how we got here

Since its inception, the area has seen a series of developments leading to the opening of Coupette. Key milestones include:

• March 2022: Construction begins on the Hannah St Hotel.
• December 2022: Coupette opens its doors to the public.
• October 2023: Anticipation builds for the opening of Propeller, another venue within the hotel.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Since its launch, Coupette has introduced a signature cocktail, the Coupette 75, which is a unique twist on the classic cocktail. Additionally, the menu has been refined further based on customer feedback, with new dishes being tested to enhance the dining experience.

What was already established

The concept of Coupette as an all-day café and bistro was rooted in Toleman’s vision for a neighbourhood gathering spot. Early menu offerings included breakfast staples and lunch options influenced by both French and Italian cuisines, setting a precedent for the restaurant’s identity.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For locals, Coupette provides a new dining option that combines quality with comfort, making it an attractive choice for casual meals or special occasions. The café's atmosphere and menu are designed to appeal to a diverse clientele, including families and professionals.

Businesses and jobs

As a part of the Hannah St Hotel, Coupette contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and attracting visitors to the area. The hospitality sector can expect a boost as the hotel and its venues become popular among both tourists and residents.

Policy and regulation

As hospitality venues continue to evolve, the operations at Coupette and the Hannah St Hotel will likely influence local regulations regarding business permits, health standards, and community engagement initiatives aimed at promoting local tourism.

Numbers that matter

• 120+ bottles of wine on the menu, with a rotating selection by the glass.
• 5 venues opened within Hannah St Hotel, enhancing local dining options.
• 7am–10pm daily hours, catering to breakfast through late-night dining.
• 1 signature cocktail, the Coupette 75, among a diverse drinks menu.
• 3 key influences on the menu: French, Italian, and local Australian cuisine.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Coupette: A type of cocktail glass, typically used for drinks served chilled, like the Coupette 75.
• Blue swimmer crab: A species of crab found in the Indo-Pacific waters, known for its sweet meat.
• Steak frites: A French dish consisting of steak served with fries.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Visitors can expect regular updates to the menu as the team responds to customer preferences. Special events and promotions may also be introduced to attract more foot traffic.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As Coupette gains traction, it may begin to host themed nights or collaborations with local chefs, thereby enhancing its profile in the area. The upcoming opening of Propeller will further solidify the hotel's status as a dining destination.

Signals to watch

• Customer reviews and feedback on platforms like Google and social media.
• Menu changes or introductions of seasonal dishes.
• Events and promotions at Coupette and within the Hannah St Hotel.

Practical guidance

Do

• Try the blue swimmer crab omelette for a unique breakfast experience.
• Explore the wine list for new by-the-glass options.
• Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter dining experience.

Don’t

• Skip dessert; the café may have new offerings worth trying.
• Assume it’s just a hotel restaurant; it caters to the local community too.
• Forget to check for special events or promotions that could enhance your visit.

Checklist

• Check opening hours to plan your visit effectively.
• Review the menu online before arriving to save time.
• Look out for seasonal specials or new menu items.
• Consider making a reservation during busy periods.
• Follow Coupette on social media for the latest updates.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Coupette has received positive feedback, the long-term success of the restaurant will depend on its ability to adapt to customer preferences and market trends. Additionally, the competition from other local eateries and changes in consumer behaviour post-pandemic may influence its performance. Continuous monitoring of customer satisfaction and market dynamics will be crucial.

Bottom line

Coupette represents an exciting addition to the dining landscape between South Melbourne and Southbank, blending a relaxed café atmosphere with a diverse menu that reflects European influences. As it finds its footing, the venue is poised to become a local favourite while also attracting visitors looking for quality dining options. Its success will depend on responsiveness to customer feedback and maintaining a connection with the community.

FAQs

What type of cuisine does Coupette offer?

Coupette offers a menu that blends French and Italian influences with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

What are the opening hours for Coupette?

Coupette is open daily from 7am to 10pm, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Is there a dress code at Coupette?

Coupette has a relaxed atmosphere, so casual dress is welcome, making it suitable for both local diners and hotel guests.