Two years ago, The Meraki Restaurant Group, owned by Fallon and Anthony Cowley, took over Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen in Hamilton and now they have completely transformed the space into Luciano’s, paired with a stylish bar, Vesp Bar, creating a venue that stands out both inside and out.
From the street, Luciano’s now exudes a classic New York-style vibe. Where the building once looked like a plain bank, updated signage, sleek wall lights, and dark awnings now announce a sophisticated, approachable Italian restaurant.
The Cowley’s wanted the exterior to hint at the energy inside – a place where diners feel excitement even before they step through the door. Inside, the transformation is dramatic.
The previously hidden kitchen has been opened up, letting diners watch chefs at work with a smart metro tiled black and white exterior with stainless steel surfaces, and immediately adjacent a stylish wine station. While custom-painted to steel beams look weathered in a nod to the Ravenscraig steel works.
They contrasts beautifully with the refined finishes elsewhere including the Italian-like frieze on the ceiling which highlights its arch. The floors were upgraded from cheap laminate to patterned herringbone tiles, elegant yet practical, guiding diners through the space with a black and white tiled effect in the centre.
Seating has been completely reimagined with custom-upholstered booths by JC Upholstery, blending comfort with sophistication.
Custom-made olive trees and natural wood partitions create semiprivate dining areas without breaking the open feel of the restaurant, while lighting is deliberately layered: pin spots highlight feature trees, ceiling fixtures are adjustable, and a mix of dark wood panelling and reclaimed wood all contributes to an atmosphere that works for lunch, dinner, or a lively weekend evening.
Even the small details were considered. Bathroom pictures depicting iconic Italian gangsters like Lucky Luciano, adding a playful, thematic touch.
Adjacent to the restaurant, there is a fresh new cocktail bar in the shape of Vesp Bar which also offers a raised entertainment space.
It is designed to accommodate live music, DJ sets, or social gatherings, allowing large weekend bookings to flow naturally from the dining area into a vibrant social hub.
Fallon says, “The weekend vibe is electric – lights low, music high. We want people to feel like it’s a night out.”
The project, which May and John Frioli originally started in an old bank, always needed investment, but the Cowleys’ careful attention to design and atmosphere has turned Luciano’s into something far more than a restaurant.
Every detail – from the ceiling’s subtle design elements, now visible and appreciated, to the custom furnishings and atmospheric lighting – reflects a meticulous approach to creating energy, warmth, and style due in no small part to Anthony’s eye for detail.
What was once a bland, functional space is now a destination: a slice of New York–inspired Italian glamour in Hamilton, where industrial textures, Italian flair, and lively atmosphere come together perfectly.
