South Melbourne has a new all-day dining option with the opening of Upper Middle on Eastern Rd, a venue from experienced operator Franck Sammut.
Sammut is no stranger to Melbourne hospitality, with past involvement in venues including France-Soir, Bistro Thierry, Stokehouse and The Botanical. Upper Middle is his first solo project and signals a more personal direction while staying within familiar territory for local diners.
Located in the Fortis-managed Eastern Rd development, the venue is designed as part of a broader mixed-use precinct. The focus is less on destination dining and more on regular neighbourhood trade, with a format built to support repeat visits across breakfast, lunch and early evening service.
The menu has been developed for high turnover and consistency, led by Head Chef Lakshay Kapoor, who trained at Le Cordon Bleu Melbourne and worked through Bistro Thierry. His background supports a streamlined offering built around execution and familiarity.
The food program centres on a baguette and pizza bar alongside brunch dishes and St Ali coffee. Baguette options include Ham-Damme with leg ham, Comte and pickled beetroot, Prosciutto with stracciatella and basil pesto, Poulet with chicken and kipfler potato, Salmon with house-cured salmon and fennel salad, and a vegetarian option with roasted vegetables and goat’s cheese mousse.
Pizza selections stick to recognisable bases with slight variation, including Margherita, Patata, Prosciutto, Gamberetti, Porcini and Daniella with nduja, salami and jalapeño honey.
Design studio In Addition has shaped the interior with timber, stone and layered green tones, complemented by vintage French newspaper details. The layout keeps food preparation visible, reinforcing speed and transparency.
The venue seats around 60 guests across indoor and outdoor areas and operates from early morning through to afternoon, with additional evening service Thursday to Saturday.
Upper Middle is located at 34 Eastern Rd, South Melbourne and is open daily with extended evening hours on weekends.
