CHEF Ben Willis has been appointed culinary director of a new, top-end, unnamed restaurant in Doma’s Realm Precinct in Barton.

To be located in what was formerly the French bistro, Buvette, the new venture will include indoor and outdoor dining. It will open in June.

Willis, who closed the doors to his Aubergine restaurant in Griffith in October, says he will focus on predominately European dishes, leaning towards Provencal cuisine.

“I’m excited to be working with the Doma team to bring this vision to life,” he says.

“I think there is a real opportunity in the market to deliver a product at this level and I’m looking forward to getting the doors open for guests in the coming months.”

Director of Doma Hotels, Pat Lonergan, says the new restaurant will be a great addition to Canberra’s already vibrant restaurant and bar scene.

“We have very high hopes for this venture. It will bring innovation and elevated dining to the city and provide Ben with everything he needs to write a new chapter in his successful career.”