If you take a stroll down Glenferrie Road, you quickly realize that the local culinary landscape is fiercely competitive. Hawthorn is packed with brilliant cafes, classic pubs, and traditional eateries. Yet, nestled comfortably at number 798 is a venue that manages to stand entirely in a lane of its own. Lulo Spice & Bar isn’t just serving dinner; it is rewriting the rules of contemporary dining as the premier modern fusion restaurant in Hawthorn.
For over fifteen years, Lulo has been a beloved fixture of the Melbourne food scene. However, its recent evolution is its most daring and successful chapter yet. By stepping away from standard culinary boundaries, Lulo has created a sensory sanctuary where the high-octane energy of South American cuisine meets the deeply aromatic, soul-stirring street food culture of India. It’s a bold combination that, on paper, might surprise you but on the plate, it makes perfect sense.
The Story Behind the Spice: When Colombia Meets Delhi
The most exceptional restaurants are always built on authentic stories. Lulo is no exception. This modern fusion concept is the direct brain-child of its passionate owners, Ganeev Babra and Lorena Gómez. Ganeev brings the rich, complex spice heritage of India to the table, while Lorena infuses the menu with her vibrant, soulful Colombian roots.
Lulo is a literal manifestation of their shared life a “sacred space” where two distinct, spice-loving cultures find common ground. Rather than taking a gimmicky approach to fusion, the culinary team maps out overlapping flavour profiles. They pair the smoky, open-flame cooking styles of South American grills with the slow-marinated depth of traditional Indian tandoori techniques. The result is a menu that feels incredibly cohesive, adventurous, and remarkably modern.
The Dynamic Menu: A Shared Journey Across Continents
The dining philosophy at Lulo is centered entirely around sharing. The structure borrows the classic layout of a tapas bar but injects it with a diverse global vocabulary. Dishes are split into small, punchy bites, refreshing cured plates, and heavy-hitting wood-fired mains designed for the table to enjoy together.
Small Plates and Global Street Bites
- Lulo Pani Pearls: A spectacular nod to Indian street culture. These crispy hollow spheres are stuffed with spiced chickpeas and potatoes, but they are served alongside a vibrant, zesty Latin-infused botanical water. Pop the whole thing in your mouth for an immediate explosion of flavor.
- Handmade Colombian Empanadas: These naturally gluten-free pockets feature a crisp corn pastry shell. You can choose between savory beef and potato, chicken, or cheese and sweet corn, all accompanied by a bright house-made Colombian ají salsa.
- Patacones with a Twist: Crispy, twice-fried green plantains serve as the perfect vehicle for toppings. You can go traditional with fresh prawns and creamy guacamole, or pivot toward the subcontinent with smoky eggplant bharta.
From the Char-Grill and Tandoor
- The Famous Wagyu Picanha: This premium 8+ marble score rump cap is char-grilled to lock in maximum juiciness. It’s sliced thin and served with a robust, herbaceous chimichurri that has a distinct, peppery kick.
- Tandoori Tikka de Oro: Succulent chicken thigh fillets are left to steep in an aromatic spiced yogurt marinade before entering the high-intensity heat of the tandoor oven, yielding a perfect smoky char.
- Slow-Cooked Roast Pork Belly: A true masterclass in modern fusion. The ultra-crispy pork belly is paired with a rich, glossy chocolate panca jus, beautifully marrying the deep warmth of South American chilis with cacao.
Sweet Conclusions
You cannot genuinely say you have experienced Lulo without leaving room for dessert. The absolute crown jewel of the sweet menu is the Tres Leche de Lulo. This classic Latin American three-milk sponge cake is completely transformed with a tangy, bright glaze made from the lulo fruit a unique Colombian citrus fruit that tastes like a wild cross between a lime and a pineapple.
Sip and Socialize: The Cocktail and Wine Masterpieces
A truly great modern fusion restaurant requires an equally inventive beverage program to match the complexity of its food. Lulo’s back-bar is a sight to behold, showcasing an expansive, premium collection of artisanal spirits, local wines, and South American imports.
The mixology team crafts cocktails that mirror the kitchen’s cross-continental philosophy. The Mango Lassi Colada seamlessly blends the creamy, tropical comfort of a traditional Indian lassi with the refreshing punch of a classic Caribbean holiday drink. If you prefer wine, the staff can confidently guide you through pairing a robust Argentinian Malbec or a crisp Spanish Albariño with the fiery, complex spices of your meal.
Space, Atmosphere, and Local Charm
The interior design of Lulo steps away from the clinical, minimalistic look of many modern venues. Instead, it opts for a moody, golden, and deeply intimate atmosphere. Distressed plaster walls, warm low-lighting, and a sleek central bar create a space that feels sophisticated enough for a milestone celebration, yet relaxed enough for casual mid-week drinks.
The main dining room accommodates roughly 60 to 70 guests, making the energy feel concentrated and lively. For those who enjoy dining al fresco, the cozy 18-seat outdoor section is the ultimate spot to people-watch on Glenferrie Road while nursing a jug of their seasonal house-made Sangria.
Planning Your Visit: Location & Essentials
Whether you are looking to book a romantic date night or organizing a corporate function, here are the essential details you need to know:
- Street Address: 798 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, VIC 3122
- Direct Phone: (03) 9818 8321
- Official Website: lulo.com.au
- Function Capacity: Available for private venue hire for groups up to 60 guests.
Weekly Operating Hours
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
- Mid-Week & Weekend Lunch: Wednesday and Saturday from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday and Monday: Closed for rest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does “Modern Fusion” actually mean at Lulo?
At Lulo, modern fusion means breaking down the traditional walls between South American cooking and Indian spices. Instead of serving side-by-side dishes, the kitchen weaves the two heritages together. You will see classic Latin structures (like empanadas or ceviche) elevated by the intricate, layered spice profiles of Indian street food.
2. Are there plenty of options for vegetarian and gluten-free diners?
Absolutely. Modern dining is all about inclusivity, and Lulo handles dietary restrictions beautifully. Because traditional Colombian street food relies heavily on corn rather than wheat, a vast portion of the tapas menu (including the empanadas) is naturally gluten-free. They also offer an incredible, dedicated Chef’s Set Menu for Vegetarians to ensure non-meat eaters get a fully curated experience.
3. What exactly is a “Lulo”?
Lulo is a tropical citrus fruit native to South America, specifically popular in Colombia (where it is also known as naranjilla). It looks a bit like an orange on the outside but has a green interior. It boasts a distinctively sharp, refreshing flavor profile that sits somewhere between a pineapple, a kiwi fruit, and a lime. It serves as the main inspiration for the restaurant’s name and signature desserts.
4. Can I drop in just for a drink and a few quick snacks?
Yes, you certainly can. While many patrons come for the full multi-course degustation experience, Lulo welcomes guests to sit at the bar. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a signature cocktail, a glass of imported wine, and a couple of light small plates before heading out.
5. Is it necessary to book a table in advance?
While walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible, Lulo is a highly popular destination on the Hawthorn strip, especially during weekend dinner sessions. To ensure you don’t miss out on a table, making a reservation via their website well in advance is highly recommended.
6. What is the “Express Lunch” option?
Every Wednesday and Saturday between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, Lulo opens its doors for a specialized Express Lunch. It is specifically designed for locals, shoppers, and business professionals who want to experience premium, high-quality fusion flavors in a slightly faster, lunch-friendly format.