Foodies stunned as popular dining spot collapses without warning
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When a local favourite suddenly hits trouble, it doesn’t just disappoint—it sends ripples through an entire community.
A popular spot known for serving up comfort and nostalgia has found itself at a crossroads.
Many are now wondering what went wrong and what comes next.
For those who haven’t yet had the pleasure, 1800 Lasagne isn’t just another Italian eatery.
Born out of the chaos of Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns, owner Joey Kellock started the business from his own kitchen, delivering hearty, home-style lasagne to hungry Melburnians straight from his car.
What began as a humble delivery service quickly became a sensation, with queues out the door and a loyal following that included none other than celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
But now, the restaurant’s future hangs in the balance. In a heartfelt message posted to Instagram, the owners announced they had appointed liquidators and were working closely with administrators to 'streamline and re-structure' the business.
'Our loyal suppliers and our beloved staff are and will continue to be our highest priority through this process,' they wrote, emphasising that the core values of 'people, passion and plates of love' remain unchanged.
For now, it’s business as usual—at least on the surface. Trading and delivery hours remain unchanged, and the team is urging customers to keep supporting the High Street, Thornbury location.
'Please come and visit our incredible staff for dinner, takeaway, or a drink at the bar and help us get through this exciting but challenging time,' the message concluded.
While the exact reasons behind 1800 Lasagne’s financial woes haven’t been made public, the restaurant industry has been under immense pressure in recent years.
Rising costs of ingredients, staff shortages, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have all taken their toll.
Even the most popular venues aren’t immune, especially those that expanded rapidly or took on extra costs to keep up with demand.
It’s a sobering reminder that even the most celebrated restaurants can face tough times. The 'hatted' status, awarded by the Good Food Guide, is a mark of excellence, but it doesn’t guarantee financial security.
Many venues have struggled to balance the books while maintaining the high standards that earned them their accolades in the first place.
1800 Lasagne’s story is one of resilience and community spirit. During lockdown, it was a beacon of comfort food and connection for many Melburnians stuck at home.
The restaurant’s signature lasagne—oozing with rich ragu, creamy béchamel, and perfectly layered pasta, symbolised hope and indulgence in tough times.
The team’s commitment to their staff and suppliers is also worth celebrating. In an industry where closures often leave workers and partners in the lurch, 1800 Lasagne’s owners have made it clear that people come first.
With liquidators now assessing the financial situation, the future of 1800 Lasagne is uncertain.
The business could be restructured and continue trading, or it may be sold to new owners.
For now, the doors remain open, and the team is hoping that loyal customers will rally around them.
If you’re a fan or have never tried their famous lasagne, now’s the time to show your support.
Every meal, takeaway order, or drink at the bar helps keep the dream alive.
1800 Lasagne’s struggles are part of a broader trend affecting restaurants across Australia.
Rising rents, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer habits have forced many venues to rethink their business models.
Some have pivoted to takeaway and delivery, while others have scaled back menus or reduced trading hours.
These changes can be bittersweet for older Australians, especially those who love dining out or supporting local businesses.
On one hand, there are more options for home delivery and casual dining than ever before.
On the other, the loss of beloved institutions is a reminder of how fragile the hospitality industry can be.
Have you dined at 1800 Lasagne, or do you have a favourite local restaurant that’s struggled in recent years? What do you think is the secret to keeping small businesses afloat in tough times? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories—share them in the comments below.
Read more: End of an era: Storied establishment faces closure after 170 years of operations
A popular spot known for serving up comfort and nostalgia has found itself at a crossroads.
Many are now wondering what went wrong and what comes next.
For those who haven’t yet had the pleasure, 1800 Lasagne isn’t just another Italian eatery.
Born out of the chaos of Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns, owner Joey Kellock started the business from his own kitchen, delivering hearty, home-style lasagne to hungry Melburnians straight from his car.
Melbourne’s cult-favourite 1800 Lasagne has entered voluntary administration, leaving diners uncertain about its future. Credit: @1800lasagna / Instagram
What began as a humble delivery service quickly became a sensation, with queues out the door and a loyal following that included none other than celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
But now, the restaurant’s future hangs in the balance. In a heartfelt message posted to Instagram, the owners announced they had appointed liquidators and were working closely with administrators to 'streamline and re-structure' the business.
'Our loyal suppliers and our beloved staff are and will continue to be our highest priority through this process,' they wrote, emphasising that the core values of 'people, passion and plates of love' remain unchanged.
For now, it’s business as usual—at least on the surface. Trading and delivery hours remain unchanged, and the team is urging customers to keep supporting the High Street, Thornbury location.
'Please come and visit our incredible staff for dinner, takeaway, or a drink at the bar and help us get through this exciting but challenging time,' the message concluded.
While the exact reasons behind 1800 Lasagne’s financial woes haven’t been made public, the restaurant industry has been under immense pressure in recent years.
Rising costs of ingredients, staff shortages, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have all taken their toll.
Even the most popular venues aren’t immune, especially those that expanded rapidly or took on extra costs to keep up with demand.
Many venues have struggled to balance the books while maintaining the high standards that earned them their accolades in the first place.
1800 Lasagne’s story is one of resilience and community spirit. During lockdown, it was a beacon of comfort food and connection for many Melburnians stuck at home.
The restaurant’s signature lasagne—oozing with rich ragu, creamy béchamel, and perfectly layered pasta, symbolised hope and indulgence in tough times.
The team’s commitment to their staff and suppliers is also worth celebrating. In an industry where closures often leave workers and partners in the lurch, 1800 Lasagne’s owners have made it clear that people come first.
With liquidators now assessing the financial situation, the future of 1800 Lasagne is uncertain.
The business could be restructured and continue trading, or it may be sold to new owners.
For now, the doors remain open, and the team is hoping that loyal customers will rally around them.
If you’re a fan or have never tried their famous lasagne, now’s the time to show your support.
Every meal, takeaway order, or drink at the bar helps keep the dream alive.
1800 Lasagne’s struggles are part of a broader trend affecting restaurants across Australia.
Rising rents, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer habits have forced many venues to rethink their business models.
Some have pivoted to takeaway and delivery, while others have scaled back menus or reduced trading hours.
These changes can be bittersweet for older Australians, especially those who love dining out or supporting local businesses.
On one hand, there are more options for home delivery and casual dining than ever before.
On the other, the loss of beloved institutions is a reminder of how fragile the hospitality industry can be.
Read more: End of an era: Storied establishment faces closure after 170 years of operations
