Congress was Katie McCormack’s baby.

But since the hospitality powerhouse tragically passed away from cancer in February, her twin brother Michael – with whom she co-founded the Collingwood restaurant and wine bar, as well as Future Future and Lagotto – has been reflecting on how to preserve what she created.

“Katie had the ability to light up a room, sharing her seemingly boundless energy, warmth and generosity with her guests and, in turn, leaving them with a lasting memory of their interaction,” Michael wrote in a tribute to his sister earlier this year.

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Ultimately, he’s decided to close Congress next month, after four years on Peel Street.

“Our decision to farewell Congress is one that aims to remember the restaurant for all that it has become under the leadership of Katie and [to] continue to celebrate her legacy through the evolution of the physical space and the broader Milieu Hospitality brand,” Michael said in a statement.

“We are really excited to embark on our next chapter and are taking the time to consider a new concept and partnership for the space that maintains the spirit of what we set out to achieve originally.” The plan is to team up with a like-minded operator.

Milieu Hospitality is an offshoot of property developer Milieu, of which Michael is managing director. And when Congress opened beneath Peel by Milieu in 2018, it helped redefine what we thought about restaurants beneath apartment complexes.

Its convivial vibe and effortlessly slick fit-out – with dramatic concrete pillars and moody brass balustrades – made it a neighbourhood favourite. But it went on to draw diners from across the city for its circular, crustless pig’s-head sanga with vibrant green-mustard mayo, as well as its pastrami made, unusually, with kangaroo.

“Congress’s final service will be a celebration of all that it has become, and a warm welcome to the start of something new for which we are already in talks with the industry,” said Michael.

A set menu of “fan favourites” will be on offer until Congress closes, while it’ll be business as usual at sibling restaurants Future Future and Lagotto.

Congress is closing on Saturday September 3.

congresswine.com.au