Ebony & Ivory has established itself as one of Geelong’s favourite restaurants under the management of Jurgen Schlotzer and Ninni Stagno.
The pair took ownership of the venue in 2017, combining their mixed strengths in the hospitality industry
“Hospitality is absolutely new for me but the food industry isn’t,” Jurgen says, “and Ninni has 10 years of hospitality experience but this is the first business he’s jointly owned.”
Jurgen handles administration duties while Ninni works the front of house, including making the venue’s signature coffees.
“We have a very good coffee grinder and every cup’s freshly ground,” Jurgen says.
Ebony & Ivory offers restaurant and cafe areas, along with a beer garden that can hold around 30 people.
The versatile spaces provide options for meetings, business lunches, coffee and cake get-togethers, and small functions for up to 75 guests.
“There’s privacy for a romantic dinner, too,” Jurgen says.
Ebony & Ivory maintains an emphasis on home-cooking in the style of authentic Sicilian cuisine, Jurgen explains.
And just like home-cooking, some things never change at Ebony & Ivory.
“The popular steak dish and aquapazza will continue on our menu. We’ve had them on there since day one,” Jurgen declares.
“We’ll also continue serving our home-made pasta, gnocchi and fettuccine because that’s what we are and what we pride ourselves on. It’s made fresh daily in our kitchen.
Chicken cacciatore and the fish acquapazza are just some of the mostly traditional Sicilian dishes on the menu.
The dessert menu also features house-made specialties, with Jurgen recommending the vanilla slice or Portuguese tart in particular.
“Our pastry chef also makes flourless cakes and bakes muffins every day,” he says.
Ebony & Ivory is at 189 Moorabool Street, Geelong.
