Meet Operator Diner, the latest addition to Wesley Place

Hear from owners Randy Dhamanhuri and Valerie Fong about the inspiration behind this cosy, retro style diner that has just landed at Wesley Place.

28.10.2022

Introducing Operator Diner

A cosy, retro style diner has just landed at Wesley Place, bringing a brand-new offering to the precinct. You’ll find Operator Diner opposite the Urban Park on Little Lonsdale Street, overlooking the olive tree.

Born from the success of iconic CBD café, Operator25, Operator Diner comes from a long line of loveable Melbourne cafes and restaurants run by hospitality gurus Randy Dahamanuri and Valerie Fong.

Learn more about Operator Diner from the owners themselves.

What inspired you to bring Operator Diner to Wesley Place?

The Urban Park at Wesley Place was one of the reasons we were drawn to this location— it felt like an oasis in the middle of the bustling city. Right away we imagined families, friends and office workers having a relaxing afternoon lunch. It really is the perfect backdrop for what we want to achieve with Operator Diner— a comforting space for you to have a breather and enjoy a meal with friends.

Where did the diner concept for Operator Diner stem from?

After the pandemic, we came to the realisation that sometimes all we want are the simple things in life. The idea behind Operator Diner is that all you need is a simple and hearty breakfast done right, served up with a good coffee to have a great day.

What makes Operator Diner different from your other restaurants?

Operator Diner focuses on staple breakfast items and Melbourne style sandwiches. It’s classic and straightforward, but still has that playful approach, in terms of menu, vibes and concept. Operator25 is a brunch cafe with an Asian inspired menu, while Middletown serves brunch with several refined items and Makan is a modern Indonesian restaurant.

Can you tell us a bit about the design and how you want people to feel when they settle in for a meal at Operator Diner?

Operator Diner was designed with a sense of nostalgia and comfort in mind, to give customers a space to feel relaxed whilst having a good meal. Our architects, We Are Humble, have curated a space that draws from the imagery of classic diners that evokes the feeling of a place you can visit at any time of day, and you will be greeted with a cup of good coffee, a tasty meal, and a smile.

What can we expect to find on the menu?

Customers can expect classic breakfast diner dishes such as pancakes and breakfast muffins, as well as specialty sandwiches on the menu! Some items we highly recommend would be the Katsu Kick (a chicken katsu roll with Japanese curry mayo) and the Pork N’ Roll (a porchetta sandwich with coriander chimichurri).

What will your opening hours be?

Our official opening hours are Monday to Friday: 7AM till 4PM and Saturday and Sunday: 8AM till 3PM.

How can people keep up to date with Operator Diner news?

To keep up to date with what else is happening here at Wesley Place, sign up to our newsletter at: https://www.wesleyplace.com.au/sign-up