First look at Fitzroy's five-level dining destination, 127 Brunswick Street

The epic five-level dining destination from brothers-in-law Vince Sofo and Paul Adamo (who also own the Espy, Ichi Ni and Ichi Ku) is just weeks away from being unveiled.

For more than three years, behind the high-walled Victorian facade of the Old Colonial Inn, a team has been building, hand-crafting furniture, hand-painting ceilings and personalising every nook.

"That's the way we like to do things," says Sofo at 127 Brunswick Street (as the venue will become known). "After the architects and builders have done their part, then we come and design the space organically."

Sofo and Adamo have collaborated with artist and DJ Christo Gillard on the multi-zoned space detailed with Asian-themed light shades, latticework and paste-ups, and recycled parts, such as planters made from the pub's old fridges, and panels fashioned from old roof tiles.

"Each area has a distinct personality, and will run independently; we hope that everybody can find a space they like," says Sofo.

The venue can be adapted to hold events and functions, and includes the glassed-in Upside Rooftop Bar, with DJ booth and outdoor seating.

Next level down is The Village People Hawker Food Hall, with a soon-to-be clattering open kitchen headed by Arte Assavakavinvong (ex-Longrain).

Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya Restaurant runs over two levels; Razmy Gaffer (with 17 years' experience cooking in Japan) is running its kitchen, open from breakfast until stumps (3am at weekends).

Ichi Ni Nana includes a separate sushi-making station – manned by three sushi chefs – and sound-proofed garden courtyard.

At street level, Ichi Ni Nana Street Stall and Coffee Window will serve grab-and-go food (sushi rolls) and coffee.

Opening early-September; daily from 7am to late, at 127 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy.