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MINISTRY OF CRAB
The experience of culinary theatre.
No seafood experience is quite like Ministry of Crab, a premium chain founded in Sri Lanka in 2011 that has consistently been ranked as one of Asia’s top 50 restaurants. For its Melbourne home, we placed the performance of cooking and dining front and centre, drawing inspiration from theatre and stage production design.
The Brief.
The original Ministry of Crab in Colombo is housed in a stunning 400-year-old Dutch hospital, meticulously restored to blend modern elegance with timeless warmth. For its Melbourne counterpart, we sought to echo this deep connection to place, reimagining the brand with a uniquely Australian identity that celebrates its local context while staying true to its roots.
We transformed two floors of a historic structure in collaboration with the base build team Drewcape & Plus Architecture who preserved the facade that integrates beautifully into Melbourne’s bustling Flinders Lane district. The restaurant is located on the first floor; down below in the basement is the elegant Carne Diem Bar and Grill, which we also designed.
The client envisioned the restaurant as a theatre, with the open kitchen taking centre stage. To bring this concept to life, we immersed ourselves in the specifics of Sri Lankan cuisine, recognising that the preparation of certain dishes is a theatrical experience. We designed the dining area to spotlight these moments, turning the preparation, serving and enjoyment of freshly caught crabs into a captivating spectacle — the undeniable stars of the show. Warm colours and expressive lighting were carefully chosen to enhance the ambiance, drawing attention to the culinary performance at the heart of the experience.
Project Highlights.
Feature Entry
To design this project, we immersed ourselves in the world of Ministry of Crab, engaging with the people who brought the initial brand to life. From chefs to servers and hosts, we sought their insights to deeply understand how the space could best support their workflow. This collaborative approach ensured the design not only reflected the brand’s essence but also seamlessly complemented the way the team operates.
The entrance plays a key role in setting the stage. Embracing the theatre concept, we designed a striking reception area framed by curtains. As guests are led to their seats, the curtain is drawn back, adding an air of exclusivity and drama to the dining experience.
A custom fiberglass crab sculpture stands guard at the entrance, offering a playful nod to the brand. The reception desk, crafted during our joinery workshop, was thoughtfully designed with staff input to maximise functionality. Despite its compact size, it efficiently stores essential equipment, allowing for a smooth concierge service.
Client testimonial.
“Janine and Eid really understood our brand concept, our DNA, and translated that into amazing restaurant spaces. She was always easy to get in touch with and eager to bounce ideas off. An inspiring experience.”
— Harsha Kumarasingha, Managing Director at H&J Prime Group
Colour Transitions
Most people associate crabs with the colour red, but that’s a misconception. Raw crabs are green, turning vibrant orange as they cook.
This transformation inspired the dining area’s colour palette. The hues transition from green to orange and back again, reflecting the cooking process. From the seating area to the kitchen and from the bathrooms at the back to the entry at the front, the colours subtly tell the story of fresh crabs. While many guests may not consciously notice the reference, the vivid palette creates an immersive and dynamic atmosphere.
Interior Designer testimonial.
“The entire experience is directed at the stage or the kitchen. Our design captures the spectacle of the kitchen as well as the theatre of the plating and serving. It was a pleasure to work with our clients and collaborators and be apart of the team launching this iconic brand in Australia”
— Janine Kariyawasam, Head of design
Theatre Kitchen
Fresh, local ingredients — especially freshly caught crabs — are at the centre of the Ministry of Crab experience. To highlight this, we positioned the kitchen at the centre of the space, visible from every angle. Drawing inspiration from theatre design, we arranged the seating in an amphitheatre style, inviting diners to witness the performance. Chefs expertly toss crabs in flaming woks while servers present extra-large, meticulously arranged plates. From preparation to presentation, there’s an undeniable artistry in both creating and enjoying these dishes.
