This project redefines the Pavilion Café, nestled in the heart of Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne since 1963, as a fine-dining destination. The pavilion is a single-storey space that has been a place of respite within the gardens since the turn of the century.

Yiaga, meaning ‘seek and find’ in the local Wurundjeri language, opened in Spring 2025 and is a restaurant headed by renowned Australian chef Hugh Allen. The restaurant is proudly Australian, celebrating design, produce, and craft from the ingredients to the glassware. The restaurant seats 44 people for an elevated dining experience; the open kitchen is a key focus of the earthy-toned interiors.

The views out are enhanced by a sense of enclosure defined by the dining arrangements. The intention is to create special, secluded moments with generous views out for each table.

The structure and roof of the building have been retained, while a new entry experience, kitchen and back-of-house facilities breathe life into the venue. Yiaga showcases exceptional Australian design across all disciplines while the dining area harmonises with the landscape setting.

The entry experience supports legibility and purpose; a layered arrival sequence – garden, path, doorway, portal, reception, and cellar – seeks to amplify the sense of occasion. It’s an important part of the design story, a transition space between public and private, outside and inside, a place to pause before the next stage of the experience.

Custom wall linings both internally and externally will signal a place of refined elegance.

Much consideration and attention have been devoted to the selection of materials, fixtures, fittings and furniture with a focus on local craft and makers. The design reflects the care and attention to detail the restaurant will bring to each dining experience.

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