Warrnambool’s Banyan Street milk bar has undergone its biggest transformation in more than 60 years.
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The humble milk bar, once known for its mixed lollies and hot pies, has been converted into a modern pizzeria.
The building is now home to a two-tonne wood-fired pizza oven, which was imported from the pizza capital of the world, Italy.
Mister Brightside Woodfired Pizza owner Jarrod McSween said he had been looking to open a business with his wife Heidi.
The vacant former milk bar seemed like the perfect location for their new venture.
“We looked around for a while and just came across this place,” Mr McSween said.
“We thought it was a good opportunity with all the expansion out north (Warrnambool) and there’s plenty of car parks here.
“It’s good to be out of the main street, I think, in a different location.”
The Valoriani oven was brought in on a forklift in two pieces and the shop window had to be removed so it could be installed.
“It was pretty crazy,” Mr McSween said.
The qualified chef has worked in Warrnambool cafes and restaurants for about 15 years.
He said the staff prided themselves on using fresh, locally-sourced produce.
“A lot of love goes into each pizza,” Mr McSween said.
“It’s not like you slap stuff on and send it out.
“A lot of care gets taken. Everything’s fresh, we don’t take shortcuts.
“It’s quality product and the prices are reasonable.”
The business opened about a week ago and he said the response was pleasing.
“It’s been great,” Mr McSween said.
“We’ve found a gap in the market. There’s heaps of pizza places in Warrnambool but nothing like this.”
