Detroit-style slices hit Melbourne CBD in 9MILE x Baby Driver pop-up
Melbourne’s late-night dining scene has a bold new player, with 9MILE Pizza joining forces with Baby Driver launching a limited pop-up bringing Detroit-style pizza to the CBD.
Set above Beneath Driver Lane, the venue’s moody, laneway atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for the unapologetically indulgent style, thick, airy rectangular slices with signature crispy, caramelised cheese edges and rich, layered flavour. Designed for sharing, it’s a concept that leans into Melbourne’s love of late nights, good music, and even better food.
The menu pays homage to Detroit’s cultural legacy, with pizzas named after Eminem tracks, a fitting nod given both Detroit-style pizza and 8 Mile hail from the same city. Standouts include “Without Me” with 9MILE’s signature cheese blend, marinara and basil, and the “9MILE Signature” topped with pepperoni and chilli honey. “Square Dance” delivers a punchy combination of Salumi Australia sausage, rapini and sriracha, while “Not Afraid” offers a lighter seafood take with prawn, fermented chilli, and lemon. For those wanting the full experience, the “Ass Like That” serves a quarter of each pizza in one indulgent, table-ready pie.
Every pizza begins with premium Italian flour from Molino Dallagiovanna and a bespoke cheese blend from Melbourne’s That’s Amore Cheese, reinforcing the brand’s focus on quality and texture.
“Detroit-style pizza stood out for its unapologetic flavour, texture and personality,” said founder Vincent Lombino. “I’ve been holding on to these recipes, waiting for the right opportunity to bring them to Melbourne. 9MILE is exactly that opportunity.”
“Detroit pizza is something special — it’s all about texture and attitude,” added David Burrows-Kerr, General Manager of The Talisman Group. “Cooked to perfection in rectangular steel pans with crispy edges and a soft, pillowy centre, it’s the kind of pizza people talk about.”
The drinks offering keeps pace, with a bespoke cocktail list including the 9Mile Last Word, a Detroit-born classic reimagined with Genepy, alongside a Melbourne twist on an iced Irish coffee featuring Jameson Black Barrel, Mr Black, and Hokkaido soft serve.
The launch drew a well-heeled Melbourne crowd, blending sport and social circles. Guests included Australian Netball Star Jo Weston and Tom Cooke, Essendon’s Matt Guelfi with partner Freya Tai, and North Melbourne player Toby Pink with Chloe Pink. Carlton player Zac Williams along with wife Rachel were also in attendance, adding to the polished yet energetic guest list.
“Baby Driver has incredible energy; it’s the perfect setting to share great pizza over drinks and music in a packed room,” Burrows-Kerr said.
It’s big flavour, no pretension, and a collaboration that captures Melbourne’s appetite for experiential dining, where food, culture and nightlife collide.
Attended by Craig Lawson for Melbourne My Style.
For more information please visit https://www.driverlanebar.com/
