Melbourne cafe operator Darling Group takes over The Terrace in Royal Botanic Gardens

The Terrace cafe and events venue in Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens will reopen next month under new owners the Darling Group, who are busy completing a refit of the 52-year-old building in one of the gardens' most picturesque spots.

The group unveiled its update to Sorrento cafe and corner store, Stringers, in July, transforming it into an all-day Italian-inspired restaurant with gourmet grocer.

While tight-lipped on plans for The Terrace, Darling Group has confirmed it will continue to operate as a functions venue, as well as a cafe for visitors to The Tan.

Both spaces offer indoor and outdoor dining and views of the CBD skyline and Ornamental Lake, the largest in the gardens.

The cafe will serve breakfast and lunch, plus familiar favourites such as scones, while a takeaway kiosk will service walkers and picnic-goers.

Royal Botanic Gardens asked in March for expressions of interest to operate The Terrace, seeking someone who could provide a "best in class… contemporary food and beverage offering".

Darling Group owns Melbourne cafes including Top Paddock and Higher Ground, and established Albert Park's Dundas & Faussett in 2013 and Darling Cafe in South Yarra in 2015.

The Terrace reopens in October.