ABOUT BIG ESSO

'Big Esso' is an expression in the Torres Strait. It’s a slang term that means ‘the biggest thank you.’ This is what you say when you really want to express your gratitude. When combined, ‘Mabu Mabu & Big Esso’ is what you would say before kicking-off a celebration like no other. 

​We are beyond proud to be bringing Indigenous food and culture back to the banks of Birrarung (Yarra). This River was once an eel breeding ground; where shark, dolphin and stingrays could be found. This place was a main source of food, hunting, cooking, and ceremony. By sharing food in this place, we hope to bring these stories back to life. 

Big Esso is a place to meet friends and strangers. Grab a seat at our communal tables, tune into our ‘Island Radio’ featuring blak musicians and Australian classics, order a drink from a list of Indigenous owned businesses and certified social enterprises, and have a yarn with the people either side of you.  

Please get in touch for events and bookings of 15+ at bookings@mabumabu.com.au 

Looking for a unique dining experience at Big Esso?

At Big Esso, we can provide a tailored native ingredients presentation as you dine with us. Whilst enjoying your meal, Lilly, our First Nations venue manager, will personally accompany you through each course. She’ll introduce you to the raw, unprocessed forms of these native ingredients, allowing you to engage your senses by seeing, touching and tasting them - if you dare! Additionally, Lilly will delve deeper into our culinary techniques and how Mabu Mabu came to be. This is the perfect opportunity  for school groups and tours to learn more about Australia’s rich history and our mission at Mabu Mabu. 

If you're looking for something unique for your corporate or private events, our founder, Nornie Bero, offers engaging cooking workshops, presentations, and keynote addresses across Australia and internationally.

Send us an email at bookings@mabumabu.com.au to enquire.