sunhands

In the heart of Carlton, sunhands brings together an all-day eatery and wine bar with a strong focus on seasonality, careful cooking and responsible sourcing. It is intended as a neighbourhood meeting place rather than somewhere limited to one part of the day: drop in for a morning coffee, stay for lunch, or settle in during the evening with a glass of wine. The venue welcomes Carlton locals, people who work nearby and visitors passing through Melbourne.

The menu is shaped around what is in season and the work of growers, makers and producers from Victoria and beyond. Named offerings include the signature sunhands plate, a nostalgic dippy egg and a fresh seasonal salad, while the broader format also accommodates a leisurely aperitivo. The wine list focuses on Australian wines made using natural and biodynamic practices, and the drinks selection includes teas chosen to complement the food. As the menu changes with the seasons, the appeal is in its flexible, produce-led approach rather than a fixed list of specialities.

Sunhands describes its setting as a place designed for connection and ease, with an atmosphere that is relaxed, welcoming and considered. That makes it suited to a quiet coffee, an unhurried meal or an evening catch-up, depending on the time of day. Its emphasis on community and hospitality also gives the venue a distinctly local role in Carlton, with an offering designed to work for both everyday visits and longer occasions.

The venue is led and curated by head chef Phil Tran, and was founded by Ishella Butler, a first-time business owner with a passion for hospitality, alongside Nathan Doyle, co-owner of Heartattack and Vine and Residence. Their approach centres on seasonality, sustainability and community, including partnerships with small-scale producers who prioritise responsible practices. By highlighting local farmers, growers, makers and winemakers, sunhands connects its food and drinks to the people behind them while keeping the experience approachable and grounded in its Carlton surroundings.