Now Open: Annamese Is The Streets of Barangaroo's New Upscale Vietnamese Restaurant with a Sweeping Harbour View
Get down for innovative Vietnamese cuisine, stay for culinary detours and harbourside sunsets.
Vietnamese cuisine has rarely looked this good with the opening of Annamese in The Streets of Barangaroo. Guided by the same team behind other admired Sydney restaurants like Muum Maam and Phamish, this contemporary interpretation of Vietnamese dining fuses locally sourced ingredients with sophisticated Asian influences. Plus, the inspiring harbourside setting is guaranteed to impress.
Named after 'Annam' – what Vietnam was referred to before French colonisation – the country's long and winding culinary history is immaculately presented through sustainable seafood and premium regional produce. While the flavours of Vietnam are the main focus, there are also detours into broader Asian cuisine to ensure this dining experience delivers an innovative twist on flavours that you know and love.
"We want to showcase the depth and vibrancy of Vietnamese cuisine in a way that is both elegant and exciting," says executive chef Andy Pruksa, who shaped Muum Maam's distinctive Thai menu. "It's been a joy to bring together flavours and techniques from both my Thai and Vietnamese heritage to bring something truly unique to Sydney."
Situated within the luxury One Sydney Harbour development, this 98-seat restaurant elegantly balances authenticity with contemporary flair. For instance, Sydney rock oysters are paired with nuoc cham haisan dressing, green chilli, lime and black caviar; Australian king prawns are wok-tossed with shrimp paste, garlic and shallot; and roasted duck and banana blossom salad is served with Vietnamese herbs, smoked chilli and roasted rice.
"We have always had a passion for showcasing the beauty and vibrant flavours of Vietnamese food, and with Annamese, we have the opportunity to introduce even more complexity of flavour through playing with broader influences," says head chef Matthew Pothong. "We want guests to enjoy food that is unique and deeply satisfying."
The beverage program also plays on Vietnam's cultural heritage, with a European wine selection offering a slight French slant. Alongside renowned Australian and New Zealand vintages, a cocktail menu features the same bold, aromatic flavours that have made Vietnamese cuisine such a staple around the globe. For instance, a pho-like cocktail sees Espolon tequila and dry vermouth combined with pho spices, Vietnamese herbs, lime and basil.
Considering its impressive location, Annamese's design is as plush as you'd expect. Led by Loopcreative's Rod Faucheux, the interior tastefully blends modern and traditional touches to create a luxurious yet casual atmosphere. Adorning the dining room, communal bar and outdoor seating area, sophisticated green and gold tones contrast with wood and concrete detailing to add another elevated element to the restaurant.
Annamese is open at 2/2 Watermans Quay, Barangaroo for lunch and dinner. Head to the website for more information and bookings.
Images: Steven Woodburn
