D.O.C Espresso announces temporary closure ahead of exciting renovations

Carlton institution, D.O.C Espresso, has temporarily shut its doors while it undergoes renovations.

As of 2pm on Sunday, August 18, D.O.C Espresso located at 326 Lygon St has been embarking on a facelift that is expected to be completed by the end of October this year.

D.O.C Group director Michael Costanzo told Inner City News that the renovation was its way of celebrating 20 years of operation.

During this closure period, D.O.C Espresso will remain entirely shut to the public, however, neighbouring venue, D.O.C Delicatessen, will operate morning coffee and pastries, as well as a refined lunch menu, from 8am until 6pm daily.

The renovation will involve major work to support D.O.C Espresso’s transition from a cafeteria and all-day diner to a lunch, aperitivi and evening affair, with an elegant menu to match.

“This renovation has been coming for a long time, and it's incredible to see our vision come to life,” Mr Constanzo said.

“Our key focus areas in this renovation are the kitchen and the bar, which we’ve structured to support our new concept menus.”

Patrons can expect an elevated yet approachable take on contemporary Italian dining made with old-school Italian passion – traditional antipasti, a fresh pasta selection with staple sauces, a small secondi and contorni menu and the famous D.O.C Tiramisù.

When planning the renovations they have placed great importance on creating a warm and inviting dining room, footpath, and back courtyard, seating 40 inside and 40 outside.

“Our indoor space will feature banquette seating with marble tables and increased bar seating capacity to create a more comfortable and relaxed dining experience,” he said.

The outdoor dining area and back courtyard will be refurbished in true Italian Terrazzo fashion.

Mr Costanzo believes that the footpath dining on Lygon St holds cultural significance to Melbourne and he said that he was excited to bring something timeless to the street.

The renovation will see coffee and morning trade migrate to D.O.C Delicatessen, located next door at 330 Lygon St.

A lunch menu will also be offered from D.O.C Delicatessen during the period of closure with some of the D.O.C classics.