Now Open: Maurice Terzini's Decadent New Bar in Sydney's InterContinental Hotel

Famed Australian restaurateur Maurice Terzini is at it again, this time opening a luxurious new cocktail bar that's set to reclaim the decadence of years gone by.

Terzini is of course known for many of his iconic spots around the city, including Bondi institution Icebergs Bar & Dining, which the restaurateur has overseen since 2002, Bondi Beach Public Bar and Mitch Orr-helmed trattoria CicciaBella — a second site of which was opened in Parramatta back in 2020. Closer to the city, Terzini took over Surry Hills pub The Dolphin back in 2016 and opened Belongil Beach Italian Foood up in Byron Bay last year.

Now he's bringing his Midas touch to The Bar, a sleek new addition to the food and beverage options in the InterContinental Sydney Double Bay. It's all part of a wider plan to return the hotel to its former grandeur, when it served patrons like Princess Diana, Bill Clinton and Elton John in its past life as the Ritz Carlton.

The Bar is bringing Icebergs' white-clothed elegance to the hotel, with tableside service and a menu focusing on classic Italian/Australian fare. Purists will be able to get their paws on The Bar's take on a classic martini, as well as several signature cocktail offerings like The Contessa, The Venetian, The Hugo and The Yuzu Spritz.

Jason Loucas

While the menu is still to be finalised, it promises to hero locally sourced ingredients like Sydney rock oysters, beef tartare and spanner crab. Of course, there will also be a classic American cheeseburger — if you've never had a waiter in a white tuxedo bring you a cheeseburger on a trolley, this is your chance.

The team at design practice Alfred are behind The Bar's interiors — all soft furnishings, flattering light, acclaimed artwork and even a grand piano, which acclaimed 'Piano Man' Scot Finnie is set to perform at.

Whether you're staying at the hotel during a luxurious getaway or a decadent staycation, Terzini's newest venture might just be a reason to book a seat at The Bar.

The Bar within the InterContinental Sydney Double Bay opens to the public today, Tuesday, June 14.

Top images: Jason Loucas