Overview
A 24-year run is a stellar effort in anyone's books. Still, the time has come for change at Opera Bar, as Applejack has taken over the restaurant from Matt Moran and his Solotel hospitality group. Perched on the edge of Sydney Harbour, this attention-grabbing spot will soon be under new management following "a highly competitive tender process."
Applejack will operate Opera Bar for at least the next 10 years as part of the new agreement. Plus, it's taking charge of House Canteen — the restaurant's neighbouring all-day hawker-style diner. No strangers to leading high-profile Sydney venues, Applejack is also behind the likes of Bopp & Tone, Forresster's, June's Shoppe, Taphouse, RAFI URBNSURF and more.
"To be entrusted as custodians of venues at the Sydney Opera House — the world's most iconic cultural stage — is both humbling and inspiring," say Applejack Co-Founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts. "We can't wait to share the exciting new concepts we've developed for both locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location."
With this in mind, Applejack will officially take over the reins of Opera Bar in mid-September, while the House Canteen changeover is expected in mid-November. Meanwhile, the hospitality group plans to commence refurbishments in 2026, once the bustling summer season has come to a close.
As for Moran and Solotel, Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer Jade McKellar expressed gratitude to the renowned chef and his general manager, John Gallas, for their contributions to the venue over the past two-and-a-half decades. Together, they helped shape Opera Bar into one of Sydney's most prominent venues.
"The Solotel team has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists over decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney's hospitality scene," says McKellar. "We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy."
Applejack will take over Opera Bar in mid-September, with House Canteen to follow in mid-November. Head to the website for more information.