Bondi's Much-Loved Israeli Cafe Shuk Has Opened on the Lower North Shore

Israeli cafe Shuk revealed some exciting news back in August when it announced that — after nearly five years serving the Bondi crowds — the brand would be expanding for the first time and opening a second spot in Elizabeth Bay. But it seems one new spot wasn't enough, with the cafe revealing it's also opening a third spot on the lower north shore — very soon.

While the Elizabeth Bay launch has been pushed back till January, the Chatswood spot threw open its doors this morning — Monday, December 10 — along Victoria Avenue. The 100-seat cafe has a sprawling al fresco dining area that's reminiscent of Bondi. It has launched with the brand's signature breakfast and lunch offerings, with dinner service to come in the New Year.

The 50-seat Elizabeth Bay will open in summer within the Trebartha Apartments in Rosyln Gardens — a retirement community that has recently been redeveloped by Lendlease. It'll boast a bright and airy balcony along with classic Shuk design elements. All three venues will have a consistent fit-out, including indoor and outdoor seating, long share tables and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The brand's head chef German Sanchez will oversee all three kitchens and is bringing over existing Shuk signatures to the new venues — including those baked egg shakshuka and gluten-free teff pancakes for brekkie, and eight-hour slow-cooked lamb and hummus platters for lunch. The brand's daily baked breads, bagels, sourdoughs and challah will also be available across the venues and Sanchez will introduce new dishes to both cafes, giving each a stand-alone 'personality'.

Shuk Chatswood is now open at 260 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood. Opening hours are Monday through Sunday from 6am–5pm. Keep an eye on this space for updates on dinner service and the Shuk Elizabeth Bay opening.