admin January 27, 2026
Since soft opening late last year, Shelly restaurant in Caulfield is now officially fully open, serving up Melbourne’s most immersive and theatrical experience alongside fine dining cuisine.
It’s hard to imagine the exciting evening that awaits guests when arriving at the unassuming door of the space on Glen Huntly Road.
Opening up to a vibrant free-form bar with layered hues of blue, accents of light and plush velvet bar stools, Shelly greets guests with a signature popcorn – essential for any theatre experience – that’s fun and unexpected.
Through a hidden door lies the dining room. Designed to captivate all five senses, Shelly is more than just a restaurant, it’s a breathtaking immersive show, and a shared convivial atmosphere. Guests enjoy a 10-course degustation journey through the four seasons, where the fine dining quality dishes are accompanied with a matching beverage. Each course tells a story; every moment, from arrival to finale, is designed to delight.
The interior is a visual feast, creating a space that feels both luxurious and inviting. Rich textures of natural wood, brushed metal, and soft fabrics bring warmth and tactility, while lighting and colours and spectacular decor evolve throughout the night to mirror the rhythm of the menu and music.
All elements of the 30-seat venue, not just the food, has been created and designed by chef and co-owner Rony Parienty. From the delectable dishes to the interior design, lighting, music and theatrical moments, everything reflects his vision of a complete sensory journey. Summer beach trips, autumnal leaves, spring picnics on the grass and winter fires have all inspired the Shelly offering.
Shelly Restaurant Open
“The response to Shelly has been overwhelming,” says chef Rony. “Since the soft opening late last year we have received over 300 5-star Google reviews, and seeing our guests immersed in the atmosphere is what spurs myself and the team to create this unique dinner.
“I am so proud of what we have done, and excited as we finish the soft opening phase after refining the Shelly experience. Our 10-course fish and dairy based menu is both kosher and halal and the quality of the food and drinks is just as important as the multi-sensory elements. We want our guests to leave feeling they have had one of the best dinners ever, both in taste and experience.
“Our sister venue, Shelanous started as a pop-up in a synagogue before moving to its location in Port Melbourne. Soon we had a two-month waiting list and were attracting international diners, including Katy Perry, and so we knew we needed to open another location. Shelly builds on the magic of Shelanous but brings a whole new personality to the table.
“Shelly is bigger, brighter and, if possible, even more high energy – vibrant, welcoming, and full of surprises. As guests make their way to the dining room’s convivial table, they’re brought into our multi-sensory world. Unlike some immersive dining experiences that feel dark and moody, Shelly is high energy, open and social.”
Every detail at Shelly is choreographed to engage the senses: music cues, subtle lighting shifts, and spontaneous moments of lively performance create an atmosphere that’s part fine dining, part immersive theatre. Dining at Shelly is joyful, playful, and full of heart. Guests enjoy laughter, connection, and even a few surprises along the way. From the popcorn moment when entering to the grand finale, Shelly is a dining experience not to be missed!
Shelly, 809 Glen Huntly Rd, Caulfield VIC 3162
