Mercato becomes Eighty Eight O’Connell’s flagship tenant

It’s spent decades as an eyesore but the new O’Connell street development will soon be home to one of Adelaide’s favourite brands.

Iconic South Australian food retailer Mercato has been announced as a flagship tenant of the Eighty Eight O’Connell development.

The store – which will spread across 850 sqm – will feature Mercato’s Italian retail section along with a restaurant and bar.

Mercato managing director John Caporaso said the Eighty Eight O’Connell store would provide a true Italian experience, similar to that of their Campbelltown shop but with a greater hospitality offering and the next level of premium service.

Commercial and General's Jamie McClurg and Mercato boss John Caporaso at Mercato in Campbelltown.

Mercato’s Campbelltown store.

Artist's impression of Commercial & General plan known as Eighty-Eight O’Connell.

“We can’t wait to share our family’s rich history as dedicated, personable and community minded retailers,” Mr Caporaso said.

“We have the view that the world needs to eat, drink and live better.”

Commercial & General executive chairman Jamie McClurg said: “We are very pleased to be welcoming Mercato to Eighty Eight O’Connell as one of our key retail tenants. It represents a long-term commitment from the Caporaso family.

Mercato’s Campbelltown store.

Mercato’s Campbelltown store.

Artist's impression of Commercial & General plan known as Eighty-Eight O’Connell.

Our vision for Eighty Eight O’Connell has always been to revitalise North Adelaide and this announcement shows how we’re delivering on that promise; we know the Mercato offering – which has a strong focus on quality – will be a fantastic drawcard.”

Eighty Eight O’Connell, being built on the site of the former Le Cornu site in North Adelaide which has been vacant for the past 30 years, will feature 164 luxury apartments along with dining and retail businesses. It is set for completion in 2025.