We are excited to announce that renowned Australian Chef and CW Co-Founder Shannon Bennett is returning to Melbourne for the first time in eight years in pursuit of a new culinary venture: BistroX! 

This classic bistro with a modern twist will pop up in the heart of Fitzroy at the StandardX hotel for just six weeks - launching this Wednesday, the 23rd of July. Bennett will be backed by his Vue de Monde alumni: Cory Campbell (Cuisine Chef Of The Year), Ryan Henley (leading Pescatore, Christchurch to two Chef’s Hats) and Master Sommelier – one of only 280 in the world – Carlos Simoes Santos. Steven Kirkpatrick will lead the floor, ensuring a warm, relaxed ambiance with attentive service, making everyone feel welcome at BistroX. 

We asked Shannon to share a little more about why he is opening BistroX:

“After eight years away from the kitchen, I’m stepping back into the industry — not out of necessity, but out of curiosity. Curiosity about what the industry has become, what hospitality still means to people, and what I’m capable of now. The decision to open Bistro X is about reconnecting with my roots while building something completely new."

"Bistro X at The Standard X isn’t about chasing awards or recreating past glories. It’s about creating a space that’s welcoming, unpretentious, and thoughtful. I want to put the ‘bistro’ back into the heart of the neighborhood — a place that’s consistent, warm, and full of life. Fitzroy is the perfect backdrop: raw, artistic, a bit chaotic — it has soul, and so should we."

"This is also a team collaboration — and one of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been reuniting with some of the original Vue crew. They’ve each gone on to achieve extraordinary things. Cory Campbell earned three hats and was named Chef of the Year. Ryan Henley achieved two hats in his own right. Ben John continues to lead with quiet confidence. Carlos now runs his own wine business and teaches the next generation of sommeliers. And MS — one of only around 260 people globally to pass the Master Sommelier exam — brings precision and grace to the floor. I hope more of the old team out there reach out and join us, we have a lot to offer the younger generation wanting to enter this industry."

"And speaking of the floor, it’ll be led by none other than Steven Kirkpatrick — the man behind so many iconic openings, from Icebergs and Mimi’s to Shell House and Vue de Monde. His experience is unmatched, and his ability to bring a room to life is something truly special."