The European's former chef Tim Martin is bringing the classics to Swan Street, heading up new restaurant Untitled, which opened earlier this month.

Located next door to its cocktail bar sibling The Ugly Duckling, Untitled is just as polished, with architect-of-the moment Flack Studio enlisted to create three eclectic dining spaces over two levels of what was previously an art supplies shop.

Martin, who was joint winner of The Age Good Food Guide 2015 Chef of the Year Award, is excited to be cooking food that he loves both for locals and those looking for a special night out.

Mod bistro is the name of the game, with Ora King salmon and sauce vierge alongside potato, gruyere and swiss chard pithiviers and O'Connor steak.

Italian influences also appear, whether it's spaghetti frutti di mare, risi e bisi-inspired arancini or porchetta roasted overnight. Individual Russian honey cakes comprising six layers are among the desserts.

"I'm about things that are comforting and things people know," Martin says.

A light-flooded room with a curved bar greets diners and holds those seeking small plates and drinks, while upstairs a dining room for up to 50 features marble tables, textured walls and olive-green banquettes. It opens onto a covered terrace that overlooks Swan Street. Throughout, there's original artwork by Gregory Hodge and other contemporary artists.

Owners David Abela, Andrew Ryan and Daniel Vid have worked on the project for three years.

Open Tue-Thu 5pm-late, Fri-Sat noon-late

236 Swan Street, Richmond, 03 7033 1674, untitledrichmond.com.au