Overview
It’s been one of the most anticipated openings Sydney’s seen in many an age. After an 18-month to-and-fro with tenders and short-term contracts, the new Peter Gilmore-driven Bennelong at the Sydney Opera House is set to open on July 1 — and you can already make a reservation.
Flying a culinary flag for the homeland, Bennelong's focus will be on Australian produce and wine. With celebrated Australian chef and Quay mastermind Gilmore at the helm, the revamped restaurant intends to showcase local, seasonal foods on one of the city's biggest, multi-level foodie stages.
Taking over the long-lovedstepfront space, the new Bennelong will feature different dining options depending on what you're up for. The big gun, ‘The Restaurant’, is your fine dining realm on the lower-level, serving innovative Australian cuisine by Gilmore. Diners can choose from a two- or three- course a la carte menu for lunch (Friday through to Sunday $95 for two, $125 for three), or a three course a la carte menu for dinner (Monday through Sunday $125) — and reservations are recommended. If you're taking in a spot of theatre or a Concert Hall gig, there's a 'Pre-Theatre' option: two- or three- courses, seven nights a week ($80 for two, $105 for three, Monday to Sunday 5.30 and 6pm sittings).
But it's not all pricey fine dining at Bennelong this time around, with the introduction of the 'Cured and Cultured' menu. This is Bennelong's more relaxed, casual dining option, the type of set-up to have a tipple and a bite without breaking the bank — you'll find a sharing menu with nothing over $30. Nice. You can watch the chefs at work on the central level or take a seat at the casual seating area known as 'The Circle' (not named for the Dave Eggers novel or Australian morning talk show).
Wanting to absorb the fancyschmancyness without actually sitting down to a proper dinner? Check out 'The Bar'. Bar manager Aaron Gaulke has worked with Gilmore under the Australian local ingredient focus to create a cocktail list worthy of a landmark, open every night from 5.30pm to late.
Find Bennelong at Sydney Opera House Bennelong Point, reopening from July 1. For bookings, (02) 9240 8000 or reservations@bennelong.com.au.