Rodd & Gunn launches Cellar Caffetteria as part of massive four-storey flagship store transformation in Little Collins Street.
Melbourne’s getting a new underground drinking spot when Rodd & Gunn opens its global flagship store at 280 Little Collins Street this October. While the New Zealand fashion brand is taking over four levels of the heritage building, it’s the subterranean Cellar Caffetteria that’s catching attention for its wine-first approach and cocktail laboratory.
Rodd & Gunn will transform the basement level of the former David Jones menswear store into an intimate drinking den that pays homage to the original Cole’s Cafeteria that once operated in the building. Oversized checkerboard flooring and bluestone walkways welcome punters who can browse wine selections or settle in with a glass from an ever-changing list featuring New Zealand, Australian and international producers.
The cellar space houses a cocktail laboratory run by Melbourne mixologist Matt Bax, known for his work at Bar Americano. Bax is creating bespoke drinks alongside an Italian-inspired menu featuring house-made pasta and all-day aperitivi.
Little Collins Street welcomes new tenants
- Where: 280 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
- When: Opening early October 2025
- Book here
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Above ground at Little Collins Street, the fashion brand has created distinct experiences across four levels of the gothic-style building designed by celebrated Melbourne architect Harry Norris. Ground floor showcases the full Rodd & Gunn menswear collection, while a mezzanine members bar offers exclusive access to loyalty customers with wood panelling and Art Deco-inspired details.
Level one houses The Lodge Dining Room, featuring floor-to-ceiling arched windows and restored architectural elements from the building’s past. Michelin-starred executive chef Matt Lambert leads the kitchen alongside head chef James Evangelinos, bringing a New Zealand perspective to locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Master sommelier Cameron Douglas has curated wine selections showcasing New Zealand vineyards alongside Australian and international labels.
Building on Little Collins Street has housed retail giants for nearly a century, first opening as a flagship store for G J Coles before David Jones took over in the 1980s. Rodd & Gunn shares the heritage site with Mecca, which recently opened its new Bourke Street flagship in the building’s northern wing.
The retail store and Cellar Caffetteria open in Little Collins Sreet in early October, with the members bar and dining room following later in the month. Project represents a significant expansion for the New Zealand brand, combining fashion retail with hospitality under one heritage roof on Little Collins Street.
For more information, head here.
