St Kilda welcomes new kid on the Alma block
A European inspired café and general store led by locally grown chef Samuel Hocking is giving residents at Bolton Clarke’s Europa on Alma retirement village and the surrounding neighbourhood direct access to seasonal ingredients, ready meals, groceries and baked goods and a full dine in café experience.
Hocking says the space is all about creating a community environment that brings people together.
“We’re here to share our passion for food, coffee and good times,” he said.
“What’s more, there isn’t currently anything like this available for locals in the area. Pini & Co will give the community a place to buy a coffee or a loaf bread within walking distance from where they live,”
“On top of that, we are going to be offering a seasonal and produce driven al a carte menu, all while showcasing some of Melbourne’s best produce and smallgoods’ suppliers.”
He said he was also looking forward to meeting the needs of Bolton Clarke’s Europa on Alma residents who occupy the vertical retirement village above.
“It is lovely to offer an al a carte service in the venue daily but to also offer a food store and take-home meals within the venue is a great addition. It gives the guests and residents a little more variety from the daily offering and brings the venue to life.
“I am looking forward to sharing the building with the Europa on Alma community and I’m sure they are excited they now have a café to call home and a place to meet up with friends or family on their doorstep.”
Samuel’s passion for his local Melbourne community is what has brought him back home after working in restaurants abroad. His credentials include Head Chef at the Marion Wine Bar in Melbourne, Head Chef at Waldorf Astoria Maldives and training at Burnt Ends in Singapore.
“Living overseas was an experience and was great fun but Melbourne is always home for me,”
“Growing up in the bayside area and having worked many years in the area, having this opportunity at my doorsteps, it felt right to open an eatery & food store in St Kilda.”
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