Josh Evans is a successful restaurant owner who started up multiple restaurants in New York, has relocated to Melbourne and is looking at Fitzroy to start his next venture.

Josh, you ran Banter and Sonny Boy, two successful restaurants in New York City. Why are you interested in opening a new venue in Fitzroy, Melbourne?

Fitzroy has similarities to New York City, where we experienced running successful restaurants there. The people, aesthetic, eclectic nature, and pace of Fitzroy all contribute to its vibrant and fun urban atmosphere. I have a connection to Fitzroy as I grew up going out on Smith Street and Brunswick St as a young adult and have witnessed firsthand how far the area has come, and am excited to be a part of its continued growth.

How do New York and Melbourne compare, specifically in relation to Fitzroy?

Fitzroy is an eclectic neighbourhood with a lot of interesting attractions, including art galleries, specialist bookshops, and trendy bars/cafes. It’s known for its grunge and hipster scene, but it also attracts white-collar city workers. This mix of clientele is appealing for hospitality businesses like ours, as it aligns with the atmosphere and target audience we are familiar with operating with.

How does the unique atmosphere of Melbourne / Fitzroy influence your hospitality approach?

In New York, we catered to a diverse range of customers, including students, young families, influencers, elderly neighbours, and tourists. Each group had different needs, such as providing guidance on the menu for tourists or being patient with the elderly and families with young kids. We aim to bring this inclusive service style to Melbourne, and Fitzroy is the ideal location for it.

We appreciate the unpretentious nature of Fitzroy's hospitality, where large groups can easily be accommodated and guests can sit at the bar and engage in lengthy conversations without feeling rushed. This genuine and welcoming atmosphere is what we love and aim to replicate in our hospitality approach.

What unique traits of New York's hospitality scene do you aim to bring to Fitzroy?

One of the key traits from New York's hospitality scene that we would like to introduce in Fitzroy is the presence of a dedicated host at restaurants. Having a host who greets each customer and guides them to their seats or informs them about table availability immediately puts the customers at ease and enhances their overall dining experience.

Additionally, we want to bring a stronger cocktail culture to Fitzroy and the concept of better late-night menus. In New York, it is common for people to start their evening with a cocktail or two before switching to beer or wine, and have options like burgers available past 10 pm or late-night happy hours, which cater to customers who are out and about in the late hours.

What is the significance of local hospitality in shaping the culture and lifestyle of a suburb or city?

Local hospitality plays an extremely important role in the culture and lifestyle of a suburb or city, along with retail. In places like Melbourne, it has become an integral part of people's daily lives. Residents often venture out of their homes to engage in social activities, meet friends, and explore the latest eateries. This vibrant hospitality culture contributes to the fabric of neighbourhoods such as Fitzroy, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere.

Overall, local hospitality is not just about providing food and drink; it shapes the social fabric and contributes to the vibrant culture and lifestyle of a suburb or city. It brings people together, provides a platform for cultural expression, and plays an essential role in the overall experience of residents and visitors.