Carlotta closes as Chris Lucas withdraws from Canberra
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For those who had hoped the opening of Chris Lucas’ Carlotta was the start of a chapter that included Canberra getting its very own Chin Chin, we bring sad news.
Lucas Collective has sold Carlotta site and today announces its handover to Hunter and Barrel.
Carlotta opened in the QIC-operated Canberra Centre site at Scotts Crossing in late 2024. It was originally conceived as the first stage of a broader Canberra expansion, which included opening a French-leaning restaurant in the now vacant Botswana Butchery site.
But despite strong ambitions for the nation’s capital, suitable opportunities to support a multi-venue model did not eventuate, according to the Lucas team.
Chris Lucas and Mark Glenn.
While Lucas Collective will retain ownership of the Carlotta brand, the decision to sell the lease followed an inability to secure additional sites required to support its planned multi-venue expansion in Canberra. An offer was subsequently made to purchase the lease, which Lucas Collective elected to accept.
Hunter and Barrel will introduce a new concept at the location in 2026.
“While this marks the end of our time at the Scotts Crossing site, we are incredibly proud of what the Carlotta team achieved in Canberra,” said Chris. “We continue to see Canberra as a city with great culinary potential and look forward to sharing more about the future of the Carlotta brand in due course.”
During its time in Canberra, Carlotta made a strong impression on the local dining scene, earning a GoodFood chef’s hat within weeks of opening and retaining it in 2025. Over the past year, the restaurant welcomed tens of thousands of guests and built a loyal following.
Following the sale, Lucas Collective has ensured all staff entitlements have been finalised in full compliance with legal requirements. Gift card holders have been contacted directly to arrange refunds or transfers.
Ravi Singh, CEO of Seagrass, said, “We are delighted to take over the site and introduce Hunter and Barrel to Canberra.
“We are known for our rustic character, flame-grilled steaks, barrel-aged spirits and relaxed hospitality, and we look forward to welcoming guests to the venue in the future.”
Hunter and Barrel has outlets across Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth.
