Chef Hugh Allen to open Yiaga in Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens

Chef Hugh Allen, known for his work at Vue de Monde, is set to open a new restaurant called Yiaga this spring. The venue will be located in Fitzroy Gardens, in a renovated pavilion that was once in poor condition. Yiaga will feature a 40-seat dining area and offer a tasting menu that is "slightly cheaper" than Vue de Monde, which currently costs $360 per person. Allen has dedicated six years to this project. Although Yiaga operates independently, the financial support comes from the owners of Vue de Monde. Allen has a strong vision for the restaurant, inspired by his experiences at well-known establishments like Noma in Copenhagen. He aims to create a destination restaurant in Melbourne, focused on unique Australian ingredients. The design of Yiaga will include an entrance that resembles a tree and a dining area made of glass to enjoy the garden views. The interior will feature Australian materials, with tables made from Tasmanian blackwood and chairs crafted from special leather. The menu will include creative dishes such as slow-roasted kangaroo and salads featuring mud crab with hearts of palm. Dorian Guillon, Vue de Monde's wine director, will curate a wine list with many Australian selections. In addition to dining, Yiaga plans to hold workshops and talks, and even a Sunday running club through the gardens. Despite this new venture, Hugh Allen will continue his role at Vue de Monde.