Bar Louise, a beloved restaurant in Sydney’s inner west, is set to close in the coming months after its owners sold its iconic location on Enmore Road. The restaurant, known for its chefs’ hat recognition, has been a staple in the area but will soon bid farewell as new ownership takes over the distinctive building.
A New Chapter for the Enmore Road Building
The building, famous for its pink and purple facade, has stood as a symbol of Enmore’s history for over 75 years. The Marie-Louise Salon site, which has been part of Sydney’s visual heritage, was recently purchased by Italian chef Alessandro Pavoni, who plans to transform it into a wine bar. Despite the changes, the heritage-listed facade will remain intact, preserving its historical significance.
Pavoni, known for his work at Ormeggio at The Spit, a’Mare, and Postino Osteria, has joined forces with his wife Anna Pavoni and business partner Bill Drakopoulos for the purchase. The keys to the property will be handed over in June once the purchase is finalized.
The History of Marie-Louise Salon
The building, with its art deco curves and vibrant design, was built around 1949 and is often associated with post-war optimism. Anna Pavoni has researched the history of the building, noting its influence on the local landscape, much like Olympia Milk Bar on Parramatta Road in Stanmore.
“It’s one of those iconic Sydney shopfronts,” Anna said. The restaurant’s interior was recently renovated by Bar Louise’s owners, preserving the charm of the historic structure while offering a modern touch.
The Decision to Sell
The decision to sell the Bar Louise site came from co-owner Joe Valore, who cited the expansion of his group’s ventures in Newtown as the main reason for the move. With locations like Mister Grotto and a focus on core brands such as Porteno and Humble Bakery, Valore said the group will continue to thrive despite the closure.
“We’re sad to see it go,” Valore commented on the closure, especially as it marks the end of an era for a building that housed Stanbuli before Bar Louise opened in 2022.
A New Wine Bar: Vineria Luisa
The new owners, Pavoni and his partners, plan to rename the venue Vineria Luisa, with a grand opening slated for late July. The wine bar concept will focus on an extensive gin and tonic program, featuring 20–25 gins from Italy and Australia, alongside 15 tonic waters. The menu will feature small plates and eight pastas, all made in-house, as well as pizza fritta and vegetarian dishes.
“We’re really looking forward to creating a unique experience,” Pavoni said. He is inspired by the ginoterias of Milan, which have gained popularity in recent years, and sees the new venue as an opportunity to bring that trend to Sydney’s inner west.
A Strong Connection to the Inner West
Pavoni and Drakopoulos, who have worked together for 14 years, are excited about their second venture in the inner west. The pair already operates Postino Osteria in Summer Hill, and Pavoni is optimistic about the reception their wine bar will receive in Enmore.
“We really like the people here. They’re adventurous and open to trying new things,” Pavoni said, adding that he’s confident the local community will embrace the new offering.
As Bar Louise prepares to close its doors by mid-June, the future of the iconic Enmore Road building is set to continue with Vineria Luisa—a place where the past and future will blend in a new culinary chapter.
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