Nestled in the Art Deco building of Murwillumbah’s Art Precinct, Bistro Livi is a small-but-mighty neighbourhood restaurant that packs a punch when it comes to its culinary offering and personality. The talented trio behind the restaurant, twin sisters Danni and Nikky Wilson alongside Ewen Crawford, returned to the Northern Rivers to realise their shared dream of opening a European-style restaurant, but it was not without a few hiccups. First opening its doors in February of this year, the Brisbane Street newbie had to face a couple of challenges – namely the February floods that affected both Queensland and the Northern Rivers region. After the restaurant and kitchen were flooded to a depth of 1.3 metres, the local community banded together to help the Bistro Livi team in the clean-up, and the restaurant was able to reopen in March. The intimate venue was well worth the extra efforts, with its art-deco influences, large glass windows, and all-round welcoming vibe enticing diners from all over. These winning assets are matched with a warm interior designed by David Flack of Flack Studio, who also designed the furniture, art and objects for the space.

Helming the kitchen is Ewen Crawford, who has spent over a decade working at iconic Spanish dining and drinking destination MoVida, and Danni Wilson, who honed her skills at another Melbourne tried-and-true institution, Carlton Wine Room. The duo updates Bistro Livi’s menu weekly, ensuring the restaurant’s ethos stays the same – quality produce from the Northern Rivers, prepared in a simple yet sumptuous manner. Dishes that have been plated up include starters of anchovies served with fresh radishes, cured snapper, and plates of Jamon, followed by freshly caught blue swimmer crab with pepper, olive oil and lemon, grilled mackerel or sardines and charcoal-smoked steak and pork chops. You’ll also be able to devour the likes of fresh greens and barbecue zucchini, and for dessert, nutty cheeses, refreshing sorbet and fresh fruit. Nikky Wilson, also hailing from the MoVida stable, will oversee the front of house and the wine and drink list, which will spotlight local producers and makers.

Reservations and walk-ins are welcome at Bistro Livi, with all booking details on our Stumble Guide.

Keen to journey through the Northern Rivers’ must-visit venues for your eating and drinking pleasure? Check out our round-up of the best restaurants in Byron Bay and surrounds. 

Image credit: Jessie Prince