One of Sydney’s best loved hospitality groups, Fratelli Fresh, has been sold to the fast-expanding Urban Purveyor Group, best known for its Sake and Bavarian Bier Café brands.

A favourite of visiting celebrity A-listers, including George Clooney and Cate Blanchett, the chain, which includes Café Nice and Café Sopra, will take the UPG’s total portfolio up to 26 venues. Fratelli Fresh’s six restaurants and four retail outlets are included in the deal.

Fratelli Fresh was owned by entrepreneur Barry McDonald, who will take on an advisor role while previous COO of the brand, daughter Nina Gravelis, will move into a senior management role with UPG.

“My father and I are thrilled to see our great business and amazing employees become part of Urban Purveyor Group,” Ms Gravelis said.

“Becoming part of an exciting and expanding casual dining group like Urban Purveyor Group will allow Fratelli Fresh to quickly expand in Sydney and other major Australian markets and facilitate investment in current venues, which will take the customer dining experience to new levels.”