Raffaele Lombardi

Raffaele Lombardi grew up on the Sorrento Coast, Italy before moving to Australia later in his life. He has worked as a photographer, worked in Fashion, including owning his own International Fashion Boutique in Sydney, has a deep appreciation and understanding of Italian film and creates interiors alongside his life partner Victoria Hampshire in their interior design and architecture firm, Victoria Hampshire Design. In 2021 he decided it was time to continue with another concept of his. Following his vision, passion and desire to offer an outstanding Negroni, he opened the World’s First dedicated Negroni Bar, Bar Conte in 2022 in Surry Hills.

His dream was to create a space dedicated to his favourite drink, by offering more than 40 variations of this balanced and beloved aperitivo, all featuring premium vermouth, spirits and amari. Designed by himself and Victoria to feel like their own warm and welcoming home, where sharing their appreciation of entertaining with good food and quality drinks around a family setting. With a gentle nod to Italian cinema, and paired with traditional regional dishes, that vision became Bar Conte.

His passion for the one of the world’s most loved drinks, developed early. Aperitivo is at the core of Italian culture, particularly in Naples. It has always been a daily part of his life. Growing up one was taken from the age of 18 onwards before heading out in the Sorrento/Amalfi Coast night life. It is paramount to Raffaele that Bar Conte offers genuine Italian hospitality and service as its essence.

Steven De Vecchi

Originally from the picturesque hills of Valdobbiadene, the heart of Italy's Prosecco region, Steven de Vecchi has forged an international career grounded in a respect for produce, a love of authentic flavours and a relentless drive to master his craft.

Steven began his culinary journey at 19 in London, where he honed his skills across some of the city's most dynamic kitchens, including The Beaumont Hotel in Mayfair, Searcys at The Gherkin under Barry Tonks, working alongside Monica Galetti, and a stage at Fera at Claridge's under Simon Rogan.

In 2022, de Vecchi realised a long-held ambition, opening Bar Conte in Surry Hills alongside husband-and-wife business partners Raffaele Lombardi and interior designer Victoria Hampshire, together with his wife and venue partner Marta Carrucciu.

The venue quickly garnered acclaim for its honest, ingredient-led food, unique Negroni collection and convivial Italian spirit. With Conte Sydney, de Vecchi now brings his philosophy of authenticity, seasonality and generosity to the heart of the CBD, with a particular emphasis on premium seafood and theatrical Italian dining.

Victoria Hampshire

Victoria Hampshire Design is an international architectural and interior design studio based in Sydney. Founded in 2007 by Raffaele Lombardi and Victoria Hampshire, the studio specialises in hospitality design and unique residential projects across Sydney, the Amalfi Coast Italy and Berry in the New South Wales, South Coast.

Their most significant project is Bar Conte, the world’s first Negroni Bar, inspired by Raffaele’s Italian heritage and a desire to create a venue that delivered both the perfect Negroni and genuine Italian hospitality.

The success of the venue is deeply connected to its design. Raffaele and Victoria wanted guests to feel as though they were being welcomed into their own home, surrounded by warmth, atmosphere and thoughtful hospitality. Rich colours, layered finishes, intimate lighting and personalised service combine to create a space that transforms effortlessly from day into night.

In 2025, the team expanded the concept with the opening of Conte Sydney in the CBD, building on the success of the original venue while introducing a larger footprint, expanded product selection and new collaborations.

Marta Carrucciu

Marta began her hospitality career in London after completing her university studies in 2014. She joined Searcys at The Gherkin Private Members' Club, initially working as a Members' Relations Assistant before progressing to Reception Manager.

In 2016, Marta relocated to Sydney with her husband Steven and gained experience across a range of renowned hospitality venues. During this time, she developed a strong passion for wine and became a certified sommelier. During this time she developed a strong passion for wine and became a certified sommelier.

Since the opening of Bar Conte in 2022, Marta has played a key role in managing front-of-house operations and guest relations. She oversees the wine program, reservations, private events and weddings, ensuring exceptional service and memorable experiences for every guest.