Shelly dining launches in Caulfield
Shelly dining has opened in Caulfield as Melbourne’s newest multi sensory experience, offering a three hour seasonal journey driven by theatre, storytelling and a 10 course menu. The venue expands on the success of Shelanous in Port Melbourne, a restaurant known for its long wait list and international attention. Chef and co owner Rony Parienty leads the new project and shapes every detail of the night, from sound and lighting to food and performance elements.
The entrance sits quietly on Glen Huntly Road, yet guests step into a curated sequence that moves through the four seasons. The team uses lighting cues, music changes and theatrical moments to guide the pace of the evening. As a result, the experience feels like a complete narrative rather than a classic degustation.
Rony designs the entire concept around connection and shared discovery. He creates each dish, chooses the textures in the room and builds the small surprises that appear throughout service. The aim is to offer one coherent journey built on taste, sight, sound and performance.
“The response to our Shelanous dining experience has been overwhelming,” said chef Rony. “We wanted to create something that builds on that magic, but brings a whole new personality to the table. Shelly is bigger, brighter and, if possible, even more high-energy.”
He explains that the experience begins from the first step inside. “From the instant guests arrive in the bar, the tone is set with a popcorn moment, a playful way to reimagine a theatre experience that’s fun and unexpected. Shelly is vibrant, welcoming, and full of surprises. As they make their way to the dining room’s convivial table, they’re brought into our multi-sensory world. Unlike some immersive dining experiences that feel dark and moody, Shelly is high energy, open and social.”
Inside the Shelly dining experience
The room features only 30 seats, which creates an intimate setting. Deep blue, forest green and warm amber tones shape the palette. In addition, natural wood and soft fabrics introduce texture while brushed metal adds contrast. The lighting shifts across the service to mirror the rhythm of the menu.
Guests take their seats at a communal table. This structure encourages conversation and shared reactions. It also supports the high-energy tone Rony wants to achieve. Every section of the night includes a gentle cue that nudges diners into the next chapter of the story.
Rony’s 10-course fish and dairy menu forms the heart of the experience. He includes new dishes that match Shelly’s brighter feel. A few favourites from Shelanous still appear, although most plates were created to evolve the concept in a fresh direction.
“The quality of the food and drinks is just as important as the multi-sensory elements. We want our guests to leave feeling they have had one of the best dinners ever, both in taste and experience,” said Rony.
Menu and sensory design
Rony uses seasonal produce to build the food journey. He balances lighter textures with richer plates and uses temperature, aroma and sound to heighten the shifts between courses. The matching beverages follow the same logic. They support each dish without overpowering the pacing of the story.
The night unfolds in measured stages. For example, a music cue may signal a transition into a new season. A lighting change might emphasise a shift in temperature or mood. These controlled details build momentum throughout the meal and keep the room engaged.
Background on Shelanous and the team
Shelanous began as a pop-up in a synagogue. It later moved to a permanent home in Port Melbourne, where it developed a strong following. The team gained attention for blending fine dining standards with performance, humour and sensory detail. The founders include chef Rony Parienty, Fabien Moalic and Jean Louis.
Rony brings experience from several major kitchens across Europe. He also worked at Vue de Monde and later led No35 at Sofitel as head chef. His approach blends European finesse with Israeli vibrancy. As a result, his menus offer detailed craftsmanship with an open, warm tone.
Contact and Bookings
- Address: 809 Glen Huntly Road, Caulfield VIC 3162
- Website: https://www.shelanous.com.au/what-is-shelly
- Open: Dinner Sunday to Thursday, 7pm