New Italian Small Plates Restaurant Opens in Bulimba After One-Week Renovation
Simone Presta opened Romeo at 161 Oxford Street in Bulimba on May 16. The venue focuses on Italian small plates and operates in the space previously occupied by Mede.
The Sydney Morning HeraldSimone Presta opened Romeo, an Italian small plates restaurant, at 161 Oxford Street in Bulimba on May 16. The venue is Presta's fifth Brisbane location and occupies the premises previously used by Mede. Presta said the project moved forward after lease negotiations took longer than expected.
Staff had already been hired and supplies pre-ordered, leading the team to complete renovations in seven days.
The menu centers on shareable small plates such as crumbed burrata with cherry tomatoes, savoury cannoli filled with carbonara compote, and charred beef lasagne skewers. A 10-course degustation option includes eight small plates and two desserts. Larger dishes and pasta plates are also available, including prawn risotto with zucchini cream and a white ragu bolognese.
The drinks list features a 100-bottle selection that prioritizes Italian wines.
Presta previously operated Scugnizzi on Adelaide Street and Doughcraft in Albion. He won the 2024 season of My Kitchen Rules with cooking partner Viviana Barile. The restaurant operates Tuesday through Thursday from 11am to 9pm and Friday through Saturday from 7am to 9:30pm. On its first Saturday night, the venue was reported as full with local diners.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- May 8, 2026
Presta received keys to the Bulimba premises previously occupied by Mede.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald - May 16, 2026
Romeo opened for business at 161 Oxford Street.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald - May 18, 2026
Presta spoke to The Sydney Morning Herald about the opening and menu.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald
Potential Impact
- 01
The restaurant adds a new dining option for Bulimba residents seeking Italian small plates.
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