Soulful vibes and funky feasts: Mr Big Stuff unveils Its Melbourne haven

Melbourne’s Meyers Place is about to get a taste of Southern American soul food and vibes straight out of the 1970s, all wrapped up in the stylish embrace of Mr Big Stuff, the latest addition to the city’s culinary scene.

Named after the iconic song by Jean Knight, this restaurant and bar is more than just a spot for good food—it’s a homage to American culture and music, reimagined for Melbourne’s discerning palates.

GALLERY

The concept of Mr Big Stuff was born from a casual gathering among friends sharing their passion for American culture and hip-hop. Recognizing a gap in Melbourne’s food offerings, they embarked on a mission to bring serious soul food to the table. Techne Architecture + Interior Design stepped in to transform the space into a vibrant, soulful experience that resonates with the essence of American music and film culture.

“Like all our projects, this project is defined by the unique collaboration between us, the clients and the graphic designers. It responds to the brief where the clients were looking for a ‘Melbourne’ version of Southern American soul food blended with particular music and film references,” said Nick Travers of Techne.

One of the key challenges Techne faced was working with limited natural light. Their solution was ingenious—maximize the patron areas while utilizing existing infrastructure like the kitchen and bar. This strategic approach not only expanded the sense of space but also ensured a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics.

The result? An intimate setting that seats 53 guests, where every corner exudes the warmth of Southern hospitality. The interior, crafted in collaboration with graphic design studio Can I Play, features a rich palette of reds, yellows, and oranges, accentuated by custom artworks reflecting African American culture. The highlight is the feature pyramid foam wall, a visually striking backdrop that enhances the acoustic environment, making every moment at Mr Big Stuff a sensory delight.

“There are lots of surprising elements like the duality of the graphics on the V shaped bulkhead over the bar, the pyramidal acoustic foam wall panelling around the DJ booth and the ‘Token Neon Sign’ in the bathroom,” says Travers.

But it’s not just about the ambiance—the food and beverages promise to be soul-stirringly delicious. From classics like fried chicken and collard greens to inventive cocktails that capture the spirit of the era, Mr Big Stuff is set to become a go-to destination for those craving both culinary delights and a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Adding to the experience is the incorporation of a DJ and music component, ensuring that every visit to Mr Big Stuff is not just a meal but a soulful journey through the sounds and flavours of Southern America. Whether you’re a fan of funk, old-school hip-hop, or simply in search of good vibes and great food, Mr Big Stuff invites you to indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining and bar experience that celebrates the soul of a bygone era.

Images by James Geer via ArchDaily