Nestled within The European Hotel, Rafael’s represents the essence of relaxed European dining redefined for a Melbourne audience. Under Mario DiNardo’s vision, the restaurant was conceived as a space that balances warmth and refinement — where Mediterranean charm meets modern sophistication.

Votre Group worked across the branding, creative direction, photography, and marketing strategy for Rafael’s, ensuring the restaurant’s relaunch spoke to both locals and visitors seeking timeless dining with a contemporary edge. The brand narrative was built around approachability and atmosphere — where long lunches turn effortlessly into evening gatherings, and simple ingredients are transformed through craft and care.

We curated art direction and media production that showcased Rafael’s signature dishes and interiors in their best light — fresh seafood, rustic pastas, and vibrant produce presented with elegance and authenticity. Through thoughtful social storytelling and visual design, Votre Group positioned Rafael’s as an all-day dining destination that celebrates the rhythm of European life — unhurried, generous, and stylish.

Our marketing rollout included press previews, digital campaigns, and influencer collaborations, establishing Rafael’s as a cornerstone of The European Hotel’s culinary identity. Each element of the campaign — from tone of voice to visual palette — reflected the restaurant’s ethos: effortless sophistication rooted in honest food and genuine hospitality.