A new local has landed in South Melbourne – and it’s one the neighbourhood already knows. Lush 2.0 has opened in the former Wayside Inn, a pub that’s been part of the area since around 1868, now reworked into a modern, high-energy venue.
Located five minutes from South Melbourne Market, the opening marks the second venue from hospitality operator Arjun Reddy, who brings 17 years in the industry and a sharp focus on value, consistency, and community.
“I don’t believe the customer is always right,” says Reddy. “I believe the customer is God. Everything starts and ends with great food and genuine service.”
The transformation was completed in just 42 days, turning the historic site into a jungle-themed space layered with bold artwork by Mike Makatron. Inside, it’s loud, social, and built for long sessions; outside, street dining and a pet-friendly beer garden with a wood-fired pizza oven keep things relaxed. An upstairs function space with city views rounds it out.
The drinks list leans hard into fun, familiarity, and crowd appeal, balancing easy spritzes with colourful signatures and all the classics you’d expect from a proper local. House signatures include the floral Elderflower Spritz, tropical crowd-pleasers like Bird of Paradise and Coco Lush, and bolder builds such as El Diablo, Head Hunter and the eye-catching Rainbow Serpent. Classics are kept tight and recognisable – from Margaritas and Negronis to Espresso Martinis and Old Fashioneds – while a solid mocktail lineup ensures non-drinkers aren’t an afterthought.
Food is generous and familiar, with pub favourites sitting alongside more elevated plates. The menu spans parmigiani’s, steaks, seafood, pizzas, pastas, and desserts.
“The overall goal is to bring five Lush venues to life across Melbourne,” says Arjun. “I know that’s ambitious, some people even think I’m crazy – but I have an extraordinary team who are highly motivated to make it happen with me. Over the coming years we will focus on continuing to deliver great venues, with a solid reputation amongst the community.”
Lush 2.0 follows the success of Lush Rooftop & Bar in Keilor Park, proving Reddy’s community-first approach works beyond the inner city, with a third venue already locked in for 2026.