Australian Chef Ben Shewry is Launching Attica Studio Ceramics.

A year ago, the frequently-named Australia’s best restaurant Attica began a new creative endeavour – a pottery studio in the back of its Ripponlea operation.

Ben Shewry’s passion for the arts and a meaningful connection with the works found in Melbourne’s much-loved restaurant was the foundation of the project. Until now, pieces made in the studio were only used in the restaurant, but soon Shewry is set to launch Attica Studio Ceramics, making the work available to the public.

Shewry has been championing local ceramicists long before the movement became ubiquitous in modern restaurants. When one of his chefs, Claire Ellis, became eager to design a plate for the restaurant, his encouragement culminated in Attica Studio Ceramics.

Ellis is a Canadian chef who’s been working at Attica for the past two and a half years. Her love of ceramics was born out of curiosity and admiration during her time spent in kitchens surrounded by unique handmade tableware. On her days off, Ellis began taking every pottery course and workshop available to her locally. In ceramics, like in cooking, Claire finds joy in exploring the infinite possibilities of materials and technique.

For the past year, Claire and the Attica development team have been collaborating on unique serving vessels for the dining room. Careful consideration of the qualities of each new course and how it will be eaten inform the design for the new wares.

Attica’s soon-to-launch online store will carry two ranges of functional tableware available – ‘Attica at Home’ and ‘From the Dining Room’. The first is a versatile set that compliments the pick-up and delivery menus the restaurant has become known for during the Covid-19 pandemic. The latter will include the ceramics specifically designed for tasting menu courses, set to become unique conversation pieces.

The Attica four-piece dinner set includes a bread plate, dinner plate, soup bowl and pasta bowl, and is made to order with a 6-week lead time. The full set retails for $190, with individual pieces also available. Other items, including a two-serve lasagne dish, small condiment dishes and salad bowls with servers will be available with prices ranging from $10 to $170.

Attica Studio Ceramics will ship nationally. For more information, visit shop.attica.com.au.

[Images courtesy of Attica.]