Italian-inspired disco-diner part of $1.8m expansion at McLaren Vale’s Mitolo Wines

An Italian-inspired disco diner – part of an SA winery’s large expansion – is set to open in April. Check out the inside.

An Italian-inspired disco diner is the centrepiece of a new $1.8m expansion to Mitolo Wines in McLaren Vale.

The stylish outdoor bar and restaurant named Frankie, after winery owner Frank Mitolo, is scheduled to open in April and will have room for up to 200 people.

A sister venue to fine diner Little Wolf Osteria and Mitolo’s cellar door, Frankie will focus on rustic pizzas and pastas, and feature “Italo disco” vibes popular in the 1980s.

“We’ve always wanted to do something outside – something a bit more relaxed – given the space we have is a bit under-utilised,” Mr Mitolo said. “We can do so much more with it.”

The Mitolo kitchen will be expanded and an outdoor bar will be added as part of the project, which is designed to appeal to a younger demographic.

“It’s all about relaxed, fun vibes. There will be some room to dance but it won’t be a nightclub,” Mr Mitolo said.

“The food will be a more village-style of cooking, with pizzas and pastas and porchetta … good, hearty, simple food but well done.”

Winery owner Frank Mitolo checks the new plans with creative director Kirsty Mitolo.

Mitolo Wines will be a big part of the drinks menu, including new release La Spiaggia, as well as a range of signature cocktails.

Mitolo creative director Kirsty Mitolo said Frankie, which had been designed by the award-winning Studiogram, would “not disappoint”.

“They (the designs) are fresh and unique – and will add an extra dimension of energy to our McLaren Vale offering,” she said.

Artist’s impression of the interior of the Mitolo family's new McLaren Vale restaurant Frankie

Artist’s impression of the interior of the Mitolo family's new McLaren Vale restaurant Frankie