Minds behind Aløft, The Standard launch new European dining experience

The masterminds behind two popular Hobart eateries are bringing a new Mediterranean flair to the city’s waterfront – in close quarters to one of their already bustling businesses.

New restaurant MARIA general manager Hedley Monks and chef/ co owner Christian Ryan at Brooke Street Pier. Picture: Chris Kidd

The masterminds behind highly-acclaimed Hobart eateries such as Aløft Restaurant and The Standard are bringing a new Mediterranean flare to the city’s waterfront – in close quarters to one of their already bustling businesses.

Head chef Christian Ryan alongside co-owner Will Priestly will launch new Brooke Street Pier restaurant MARIA next Tuesday, just a floor below their esteemed Aløft.

The new space is filled with a soft lighting, neutral tones and a spread of Venetian plaster reminisce of the Amalfi Coast, with Mr Ryan promising a dining experience that will transport people overseas to the Aegean.

“There will be a seafood focus on our menu, given our location on the waterfront, but it will be a menu of simple, but refined plates – including flame-cooking in most dishes,” he said.

Local ingredients and European dishes will shine in the new kitchen, featuring a wood-fired grill at its centre paired with a local and European wine list curated by Hedley Monks, creator of Aløft’s three-time award-winning Australian Wine List of the Year.

New restaurant MARIA general manager Hedley Monks and chef/ co owner Christian Ryan at Brooke Street Pier. Picture: Chris Kidd

MARIA is open for bookings for dinner and midafternoon aperitifs in its various dining spaces, including the main dining room, the open kitchen bar for the exclusive Chef’s Table experience and a semi-private dining room to accommodate up to 26 guests.

Mr Ryan reports a much calmer creation and planning process for MARIA, with practice at opening Aløft proving perfect.

“I think both Will and I are far more well-equipped this time around for the whole process,” he said.

“We know how it works and the necessary things to make happen. That’s not to say that it will be smooth sailing, but we have the details down as much as we can for opening.”

The details can be seen throughout the venue’s space, with the same marble from the bar sourced for the restaurant’s tables, custom-made speakers from local business Pitt and Giblin and even a collaboration gin made with local distiller 7K Distillery for next week’s opening.

“The space is just the opposite of Aløft right above it, it’s soft and feminine, but we get the added benefit of being just a floor below Aløft and all of the incredible staff,” Mr Ryan said.

MARIA will open on Tuesday, May 13.