Overview
Norwest locals: if you haven't already started counting down the days until the arrival of Ciel Restaurant, you should start now. Following its initial announcement back in November of last year, the new venue is just a couple of months away from opening, with a confirmed opening slated for August of 2024.
This upcoming venture from renowned Aussie chef Joshua Mason is set to star upscale dining in The Hills District — and with over 500 bookings already secured, the venue's arrival has already stirred up excitement among the locals.
"Ciel Restaurant is poised to be the most sought-after premium rooftop in the area, and we're meticulously crafting every detail," said chef Joshua Mason. "For instance, our lavish balcony lounge features a customised DJ booth, adding a unique jazzy-party vibe to the venue."
With its name derived from the French word for 'sky', the rooftop venue promises stunning views over the Castle Hill Country Club from a spacious sky-high spot. The elegant restaurant is hoping to redefine social dining in The Hills by injecting a touch of luxury into the district's food and drink scene.
The 120-seat venue is set to showcase a sophisticated approach to fine dining, with luxe design elements that recall the likes of New York's Eleven Madison Park and California's The French Laundry. Expect brass and marble tones, comfortable seating, a green-hued stone bar as the centrepiece and a sophisticated ambience. There'll be both indoor and al fresco dining available, as well as a private room for events and occasion-based group bookings.
"Our venue will offer a sophisticated yet 'vibe-y' atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delightful meal and drinks with friends," said Mason. "As my second venture in the northwest, I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue investing in this vibrant community."
Mason – whose impressive CV includes stints at Michelin-starred San Francisco institutions Atelier Crenn and Coi — has taken inspiration from his Sicilian to craft the Mediterranean-leaning menu. Seafood is a particular focus, so expect the likes of an ice well filled with oysters, lobsters and locally sourced fish, alongside charcoal-grilled dishes and a woodfired selection cooked on a custom-made grill and charcoal oven that draw on French and Mediterranean techniques — perfect to pair with an ice-cold dirty martini or glass of champagne.
Ciel Restaurant plans to open sometime in August at 7 Maitland Place in Norwest, seven days a week. Bookings are now open — and you can secure a spot at the venue's reservations page.