Overview
Next-level Cantonese cuisine is headed straight for the CBD, with Sydney's famed hospitality team Lotus Dining Group announcing the launch of its latest venue. The hospo team's newest venture, Pearl, will offer a contemporary Cantonese dining experience with top-notch views — serving up traditional dishes from China's Guangdong region with a modern flare.
The group's eighth restaurant location is set to open on Bridge Street in Quay Quarter next month, expanding the ever-growing hospitality empire even further.
"This is an exciting and new venture for our group, we have been looking to open a venue with a premium offering and are hoping to reimagine the perception of Cantonese dining," Lotus Dining Group founder and chairman Michael Jiang said.
The lavish 84-seat restaurant and bar, brought to life by Darren Kong Architects, will boast stylish banquette seating and accents of blue adorning the venue — alongside Pearl's eye-catching centrepiece, a sleek rectangle bar situated in the heart of the space.
If you're scoping out the scene for a special occasion or an especially intimate meal, there are private dining options available to book. Plus, you'll also be able to opt for al fresco dining on the 30-seat balcony, which, when paired with picturesque views of the Harbour Bridge, creates the ultimate Pearl experience.
Following the ethos of reimagining traditional dishes, Pearl's menu combines Hong Kong Chef and Director of Culinary Cheung Shui Yip's nostalgic ties and knowledge of Cantonese flavours with Executive Chef Steve Wu's modern dining expertise within Australia — all while drawing inspiration from Hong Kong's gorgeous culinary craftsmanship.
"We noticed a gap in the market and have been working to create what we feel is a perfect harmony between Canton traditions and the modern Sydney dining scene," Jiang continued.
When dining in, expect to see a celebration of traditional flavours and beautiful local Australian produce. From steamed and stir-fried dishes, barbecue and rice- and noodle-focused dishes to roasted duck, hearty soups and live seafood, there will be a plethora of flavoursome Chinese dishes to choose from.
Keep an eye out for the likes of a pork belly roast with crispy crackling, the scallop tart with dried ginger and crispy rice crackers and crab Xiao long bao — all of which are set to be standout features on the menu.
Head Sommelier Karen Dollimore leads the charge on the drinks offering, with an extensive beverage program that includes a range of signature cocktails. Get excited for the Kino Negroni, which will be made with Lotus mandarin gin, campari, vermouth and chocolate bitters, alongside over 200 wines ranging from familiar drops to newer, experimental sips.
Quay Quarter Lanes
You'll find Pearl at Shop R1013, Retail Level 1, 50 Bridge Street in the Quay Quarter Building. The venue will open next month for dinner Tuesday–Saturday and lunch Tuesday–Friday. Secure your spot prior to its opening at the restaurant's official website — bookings are now open.