Welcome back to my unsolicited monthly round-up of newly opened restaurants, a cocktail special, chefs to take note of, where to stay and venues you’ll find us making a reservation or two. 

Enjoy!

New South Wales

Matt Moran’s Chiswick celebrates its 10th Birthday

Matt Moran’s Woollahra restaurant Chiswick is turning 10 and is celebrating with a month-long celebration. During the month of May, Chiswick will offer a special birthday menu, allowing diners the chance to try some of the staff and guests’ favourite dishes from the past decade with a modern twist. Matt Moran and his team have also released a digital cookbook and special edition Providoor boxes in celebration.

A new Martini Bar from the Cantina Ok! team

The team that brought you Cantina Ok! has swapped out their margaritas for martinis. Located down the end of Enmore Road, Bar Plant’s bar top is the centrepiece of the space, with striking terrazzo pieces, featuring jade, marble and rare french glass. As for the martinis, a lot of work has gone into the signature cocktail that saw the team working with Marrickville’s Poor Toms to create its base spirit.

A taste of Southeast Asia at The Star

Rumble is set to open this May, bringing a taste of Southern Asian cuisine to The Star Sydney. Head Chef Benjamin Tan has designed the menu, that’s taken inspiration from Malaysian heritage and his experience working in restaurants across Asia. Diners can expect to enjoy nostalgic, authentic flavours reminiscent of travels through Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. Think deconstructed prawn laksa, black Angus short ribs infused with the spices of beef rendang, and dried-red curry smoked duck.

Exclusive dinners, demonstrations and masterclasses at Saké, Rockpool, Spice Temple

Enjoy a delicious month out at Saké Restaurant & Bar, Rockpool Bar & Grill and Spice Temple during May, with a series of exclusive dining experiences.

• Saké’s Japanese chefs will showcase their maguro kaitai mastery (breaking down a whole sustainably caught Southern Bluefin Tuna), as guests look on. A nose to tail, share-style feast follows.
• Spice Temple Sydney is hosting two Dumplings masterclasses, hosted by Executive Chef Andy Evans who will teach participants the craft behind two signature dumplings.
• Rockpool Bar & Grill is launching its inaugural Rare Breed Steak Tasting Dinner, with culinary Director Corey Costelloe taking guests through the one-of-a-kind steak showcase, explaining unique cuts, flavours and textures.

Step Into A Winter Wonderland At Pier One

Snuggle up in your own private cosy winter-wonderland bubble with plush furnishings, canapés and grazing platters at Pier One Sydney. Tara Whiteman (Tara Milk Tea) has curated an all-white wonderland and envisioned the space that would be a retreat for fellow Sydneysiders during the cooler months.

Bar Patrón reopens with new menus and margaritas

The world’s only dining and drinks destination to partner with Patrón Tequila, Bar Patrón has reopened its doors. Expect the same focus on premium tequila, authentic Mexican dishes and some of Sydney’s best views. On the menu expect fresh dishes such as Scallop Ceviche, Tuna Ensalada and Octopus Huarache. House-made tortillas with flavour-packed fillings, including Soft Shell Crab, Chicken with Black Mole and Carnitas Eggplant. For mains try the Tajima Wagyu Rib Eye with Epazote Chimichurri.

Chef Marcelo Munoz from Continental CBD collaborates with PS40

PS40, a unique cocktail bar in the heart of Sydney that combines experience, flavour and service is collaborating with up and coming Sydney chef, Marcelo Munoz for their resident Takeover Tuesday this May. Renowned for his ability to transform the common vegetable from humble to hero, Marcelo (co-Head Chef at Continental CBD) will be taking over the kitchen at PS40 this 3rd and 10th of May.

Bookings are essential (and limited) with seatings available at 6pm & 8pm. Tickets are $65pp can be secured via email – [email protected].

the Middle Eastern meets the Mediterranean During May at Nour

For the month of May, Nour is bringing notes of Sicily to the Surry Hills restaurant. The unlikely fusion of two very traditional cuisines dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Nour’s Head Chef, Gianluca Lonati, hopes to bring this history to the forefront via a very modern and exciting menu created for the month’s festivities.

To close out the month-long menu, Nour has enlisted the help of fellow chef and Sicilian native Lino Sauro from Olio Kensington Street, to co-host the Taste Of Siquillya event night scheduled for Wednesday, May 25.

 

 

Diplomático And Alibi Sustainable Dinner Series

Diplomático rum has partnered with Alibi Bar & Kitchen, to unveil a Sustainable Dinner Series for hungry herbivores. The two brands have come together with one thought in mind – your dinner shouldn’t cost the earth. Championing Diplomático’s eco-friendly production methods and Alibi’s commitment to conscious cuisine, in a sustainable dinner series this Wednesday 4th and 18th May. Bookings here.

 

 

Asian Fusion Dining at 25 Martin Place

White + Wong’s has opened up at 25 Martin Place, bringing Asian fusion dishes across the restaurant’s two levels. Seating up to 300 guests, diners have the option to choose between many different dining spaces across the venue. The extensive and eclectic menu satisfies all tastebuds with a wide range of dishes including dumplings, bao, salads, wok-based dishes, curries, meats, seafood and desserts.

Join The Meatball Movement

Victoria

Rustica opens on Queen & Collins

Melbourne’s iconic sourdough bakery and cafe Rustica have opened its fifth store, a new cafe and bakery in the heart of the Melbourne CBD, located on the prominent corner of Little Collins and Queen Street. Rustica fans can expect to see the regular favourites, including blueberry and finger lime crullers, ferrero french crullers, Iced Vovo brioche donuts as well as First Love Coffee.

One Night Fiesta At Repeat Offender

Elwood hotspot, Repeat Offender are back and once again hosting their yearly Cinco De Mayo event. To celebrate the yearly tradition, the team will host a once-off set menu, with two full set dining menus to accommodate both meat-eating and vegan diners. Prepare to be transported to a warmer climate, with a five-course dinner offering for just $75 per person, with special dishes like the Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Crisp Jicama Chips and Guajillo Salsa for meat-eaters and the delicious Beetroot Tartare for herbivores.

NEW PULLMAN MELBOURNE ON THE PARK UNVEILED

The Pullman Melbourne on the Park which is located opposite the Melbourne Cricket Ground has just revealed a stunning $40 million renovation to its flagship 419 room hotel. The upgrade has been designed by leading architects DKO and features magnificent views from every room, taking in Melbourne’s famous gardens, the MCG, the Sports and Entertainment Precinct and the Melbourne CBD.