Pub baron Justin Hemmes is set to open his first Melbourne venue after buying Tomasetti House in Flinders Lane precinct for more than $40million.
The 48-year-old Merivale boss confirmed the newest addition to his empire on Tuesday after acquiring the historic building from Sydney-based Millett family.
It is the hotel billionaire s first business venture in Victoria and his first outside New South Wales, where he owns and operates over 70 venues.
Sydney pub baron Justin Hemmes (pictured) is set to open his first Melbourne venue in the Flinders Lane precinct after striking a $44million deal
The Rich-Lister described Melbourne as a very special city, with a unique energy .
Justin Hemmes to expand Merivale to Melbourne afr.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from afr.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
New data reveals which Australian capitals have the best (and worst) restaurant tippers
Callan Boys
Photo: Simon Schluter
Like it or loathe it, tipping has been a part of Australian restaurant culture for decades. Traditionally reserved for service at finer-dining establishments, a gratuity is now being left at more casual eateries, largely thanks to the growth of in-venue ordering technology.
Developers for web-based platform Me&u – which works by diners scanning a QR code with their phone to order and pay with an interactive menu – have reported an eightfold increase in gratuity nationwide after enhancing tipping capability in June.
Meanwhile, HungryHungry online ordering platform – used by food and drink vendors at outdoor events and large venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground – has seen the value of tips increase by 13 per cent since June.
Justin Hemmes spent his Saturday night partying on a boat with at least seven bikini-clad women
The Rich Lister, 48, was photographed ferrying the bevy of beauties to his waterfront Vaucluse property
Comes as Hemmes Merivale suffered a major blow in court last week in a fight over $129million wage bill
The hospitality empire could be forced to backpay the mammoth sum to 14,000 employees
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Earlier that day, his girlfriend and model Madeline Holtznagel, 24, appeared forlorn as she was spotted walking through Sydney s Double Bay.
She glanced repeatedly at her phone during the walk, wearing tiny black shorts and a P.E Nation jumper.
Back home: After jetting into the state s capital on a private jet, the businessman jumped into a car with the brunette
Chatting away: The pub baron chatted to the female while the chauffeur placed his bags into a blue Royce Rolls
Waiting game: The brunette was spotted standing nearby as their bags were placed into a car
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Hemmes and Holtznagel for comment. It is understood that he and the brunette are just friends.