Merivale will soon join Melbourne’s hospitality industry, following its purchase of Tomasetti House in Flinders Lane.

The landmark acquisition in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD is not only Merivale’s first venue in Melbourne, it’s the first outside NSW, and only the second outside Sydney. It follows Merivale acquiring The Quarterdeck in Narooma last month.

Tomasetti House, built in 1853, was first put up for sale in March 2020, but withdrawn from the market after the pandemic struck.

Merivale will receive keys to the magnificent laneway freehold building later this year. It said further details on plans “will be announced in due course”. 

Justin Hemmes, CEO of Merivale, said: “Melbourne is a very special city, with a unique energy and an inimitable soul. Its local hospitality industry is one of the best in the world; brimming with creative culinary talent and supported by a passionate community of diners. We are honoured to open our first venue in Melbourne, and cannot wait to work alongside so many local industry greats”. 

“Melbourne’s CBD has suffered terribly from the hardships of the past year. We are committed to doing everything we can to help reinvigorate the city and support it in its road to recovery. 

“I have spent years travelling and being inspired by places from all corners of the globe, but the last twelve months has certainly reinforced that there is simply no place like home. I am energised by Australia’s collective appreciation for our own backyard and am extremely passionate about continuing to invest in an industry that defines so much of our vibrant culture.”

Sources told The Australian Financial Review that Merivale paid $40 million-plus to acquire the seven-storey brick and bluestone building from Sydney’s Millett family. It is understood Andrew Jolliffe from HTL Property negotiated the sale, but he declined to comment.

Merivale’s hospitality portfolio now comprises more than 80 brands and venues.