Hopper Joint by Brahman Perera

Weaving personal histories with the contemporary energy of Melbourne, Hopper Joint is a welcoming eatery designed by Brahman Perera that is an ode to memory, heritage and community.

Alongside his restaurateur partner Jason M. Jones, Perera lovingly refurbished and restored a dated piano bar to create a vibrant, enchanting Sri Lankan restaurant. Injecting a South Asian influence into Prahran’s Greville Street – also home to Entrecôte, another eatery conceived by the couple – the transformation took eight years to complete.

The concept for the space reflects Perera’s distinctive design approach – layered, considered and timeless but not tied to a particular style.

The concept for the space reflects Perera’s distinctive design approach – layered, considered and timeless but not tied to a particular style. Anchored in Perera’s family, Hopper Joint reimagines the tropical modernist style synonymous with Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Also key to Perera parlaying his heritage are works by Sri Lankan artist Edwina Thomson, encouraging guests to eat with their hands – there’s a designated handwashing station on the floor. Similarly, an open kitchen attracts diners’ attention to the art of hopper making and the intricacies of this traditional street food.

Handmade details by local makers and craftspeople appear at every turn – custom rattan chairs, hand-blown amber glassware, plaster hand lights by Sydney artist Max Rixon and embroidered marigold serviettes sourced from Sri Lanka make the space feel intimate and lived in.

Anchored in Perera’s family, Hopper Joint reimagines the tropical modernist style synonymous with Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.

In keeping with this atmosphere, vintage and reimagined furniture – like the repurposed drum pendants perched above the bar – dominates the space. Meanwhile, a red cork floor complemented by teak timber shutters pays homage to Asia, and rattan fans and antique crystal chandeliers echo the spirit of Colombo and the traditional architecture of southern Sri Lanka. With restaurants particularly vulnerable to time and wear, materials and finishes here are robust.

Hopper Joint effortlessly encapsulates Melbourne’s dining culture, reflecting the city’s diversity, diaspora and vibrant energy, yet it is clearly a deeply personal endeavour. The result is a poignant space that offers a soulful experience for anyone who comes in willing to be welcomed with open hands.

Interior design by Brahman Perera. Artwork by Max Rixon.