Andrew McConnell is on his way to becoming one of Melbourne’s most prolific restaurateurs. Today he and his partner, Jo McGann, announced that they’ll be opening a new spot on Crossley Street in the upper CBD in 2025. But while the opening of a new McConnell venture is usually cause for celebration, this announcement also marks the end of a near three-decade run for celebrated Italian landmark Becco, and will be sad news for its many fans.
“After 28 years, I’ve decided to pass the baton to who I believe to be the best restaurant operators in Australia,” said Becco founder Simon Hartley. “Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann have been an absolute pleasure to deal with, and there are no better people to uphold the legacy of this iconic site.”
McConnell says 25 Crossley Street is one of the most important heritage restaurant sites in the city. “The dining room has a beautiful soul that reflects its history and the incredible hospitality that has been offered here for over 70 years. We’re excited to preserve and continue this legacy whilst bringing new energy to the space.”
The site’s hospitality roots run deep. It was once the home of Pellegrini’s Tavola Freddo Cantina, which was established by the original Pellegrini brothers, Leo and Vildo in 1954. They later sold the business Nino Pangrazio and Sisto Malaspina, in 1974.
The fit-out for the new site will be undertaken by Acme, the same firm that did Gimlet and Apollo Inn. While there’s no firm date attached to the opening of the restaurant, team McConnell say they’ll open a branch of their grocery/café, Morning Market, in the Becco produce store space in the meantime. Stay tuned.