A Brand New Dining Option Is Coming to the Sydney Opera House

Visitors to Australia's most iconic building will be spoiled for choice at dinner time, thanks to the award-winning chef behind Felix Bar and Bistro. The Sydney Opera House has handed over the keys to its Colonnade Cafe and Western Foyer Theatre Bars to hospitality outfit Trippas White Group, who have charged head chef Lauren Murdoch with creating a brand new menu.

No word yet on what exactly Murdoch will be serving, although the restaurant is expected to make use of fresh local produce in a relaxed and affordable setting – perhaps offering a slightly more casual alternative to the recently redesigned Bennelong upstairs. Anyone looking for further clues can take a gander at Murdoch's seriously impressive resume, which in addition to Felix includes stints at Lotus Bistro, Pier, Ash Street Cellar and Rockpool.

Likewise, Trippas White are no stranger to high-end dining options — their operations portfolio includes Centennial Parklands Dining, the Botanic Gardens Restaurant, The Avalon on the Beach and the newly opened WATT at Brisbane Powerhouse, to name a few. Murdoch and Trippas White will start work at the Opera House this week, with plans for a refurbishment once the busy summer period has subsided next year.

"It’s exciting to be able to bring our experience and flair to Australia’s most famous building," read a statement by Trippas White Group Managing Director Joseph Murray, who promised to bring "new food concepts and a fresh look to the Western Foyers venue".

Image: Summer pop-up at the Sydney Opera House.