Is Pipis Kiosk the New Seafood Hotspot in Fitzroy This Summer?

Pipis North, a summer pop-up restaurant located in Fitzroy, brings a relaxed beachside dining experience inspired by the Basque coast, featuring a seafood-leaning menu crafted by executive chef Jordan Clay and head sommelier Tom Hunter. With a focus on fresh, diverse seafood and a vibrant atmosphere, this pop-up aims to cater to both quick bites and leisurely meals, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Pipis North is creating a buzz in the Fitzroy dining scene with its unique seaside-inspired menu and vibrant atmosphere. The pop-up, located at 274 Brunswick Street, offers an approachable, casual dining option compared to its more formal counterpart, Pipis Kiosk in Albert Park. With a commitment to showcasing Australia’s rich seafood diversity, Pipis North is poised to attract food lovers looking for a fresh take on seafood dining.

Key takeaways

Pipis North is a summer pop-up by the Pipis Kiosk team, featuring a seafood-focused menu.
Executive chef Jordan Clay aims to highlight Australia's diverse seafood offerings.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with a bar vibe encouraging casual dining and drinks.
Happy hour specials include $4 oysters and affordable wine pairings.
New dishes will be introduced, with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative pairings.

Timeline: how we got here

Pipis Kiosk opened in Albert Park in 2020, quickly becoming known for its stunning views and impressive seafood menu. As the team looked to expand their reach, the idea for a summer pop-up emerged, leading to the launch of Pipis North in October 2023. This pop-up aims to fill a perceived gap in the Fitzroy area for seafood dining, particularly for a casual yet high-quality experience.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Pipis North has introduced a new menu inspired by tapas bars on the Basque coast, featuring entirely new dishes alongside a couple of popular items from Pipis Kiosk, like the salt-and-pepper squid. The pop-up also boasts an extensive wine list, including unique offerings such as a specially crafted gin inspired by coastal ingredients.

What was already established

Pipis Kiosk has built a reputation for quality seafood and a beautiful setting overlooking Hobsons Bay. The original restaurant's focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood continues at Pipis North but with a more casual and approachable dining experience.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While Pipis North is located in Australia, the emphasis on seafood diversity and the casual dining phenomenon may resonate with UK diners looking for similar experiences. As more Australians explore seafood options, UK consumers can draw inspiration for local dining trends and seafood offerings.

Businesses and jobs

Pipis North’s opening contributes to the local Fitzroy economy by providing job opportunities and supporting the hospitality sector. As the restaurant industry adapts to consumer preferences for casual dining experiences, businesses can benefit from a shift towards more relaxed dining environments.

Policy and regulation

The pop-up operates within the existing restaurant regulatory framework in Victoria, Australia. As more establishments like Pipis North open, there may be discussions on policies related to food sourcing, sustainability, and health regulations in the broader restaurant sector.

Numbers that matter

4pm to 6pm: Happy hour with $4 oysters, promoting accessibility to quality seafood.
$50: Half bottles of wine available during happy hour, including chablis and riesling.
8 weeks: Potential duration of the pop-up if it proves successful, extending its appeal.
274 Brunswick Street: The location of Pipis North, strategically chosen to attract local clientele.
2020: The year Pipis Kiosk was established, marking a significant addition to Melbourne's dining landscape.

Definitions and jargon buster

Crudo: An Italian term for raw fish or seafood, typically dressed with olive oil and seasonings.
Tapas: Small savoury dishes served as appetizers in Spanish cuisine.
Fino sherry: A type of dry sherry, often enjoyed as an aperitif.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Pipis North will be actively promoting its seafood offerings and happy hour specials to attract diners. Reservations may be recommended, especially during peak hours on weekends.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If successful, Pipis North could extend beyond its initial 8-week pop-up duration, potentially leading to a permanent location. Monitoring customer feedback will be crucial for future decisions.

Signals to watch

Customer reviews and social media engagement regarding the dining experience.
Sales data during happy hour promotions to gauge popularity.
Any announcements regarding an extension of the pop-up or plans for a permanent establishment.

Practical guidance

Do

Visit during happy hour to experience the best value on oysters and wine.
Try the marlin crudo for a unique taste of the seafood menu.
Make a reservation if you plan to visit during peak hours to ensure a table.

Don’t

Skip the drinks menu; the wine and gin offerings are designed to complement the food.
Expect a formal dining experience; embrace the casual atmosphere.
Overlook the seasonal nature of the pop-up; it may not be available year-round.

Checklist

Check the menu online before your visit to decide on your choices.
Plan your visit during the happy hour for the best deals.
Consider bringing friends to share a variety of dishes and drinks.
Follow Pipis North on social media for updates and specials.
Note the opening hours to avoid disappointment.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As a pop-up, Pipis North has a limited timeframe, and its future depends on customer reception and business performance. The seafood supply chain can also be unpredictable, potentially impacting menu offerings. Additionally, the long-term viability of the pop-up may be influenced by market trends and consumer preferences in the Fitzroy area.

Bottom line

Pipis North presents an exciting opportunity for seafood lovers in Fitzroy, offering a casual yet high-quality dining experience inspired by coastal flavours. Its success will depend on customer response, making it a noteworthy addition to Melbourne's vibrant food scene.

FAQs

What type of cuisine does Pipis North serve?

Pipis North features a seafood-leaning menu inspired by the Basque coast, focusing on fresh, diverse seafood options.

What are the happy hour specials at Pipis North?

During happy hour from 4pm to 6pm, Pipis North offers $4 oysters, $16 Melbourne Bitter longnecks, and $50 half bottles of wine.

Is Pipis North a permanent restaurant?

Pipis North is currently a pop-up restaurant with an initial duration of 6 to 8 weeks, depending on its success and customer demand.