Overview
This November, Darlinghurst is slated to become home to a swanky new watering hole: The Waratah. Led by hospitality heavyweights Evan Stroeve (ex-RE, Bulletin Place and Swillhouse), Alex Prichard (current executive chef at Bondi Icebergs) and business partner Cynthia Litster. It marks the debut of the new Sydney hospitality group, Pollen Hospitality, founded by Stroeve and Litster.
Located on the corner of Liverpool and Victoria Street, The Waratah will seat 120 and span two storeys. There's also be an openair courtyard to chill during sunny arvos with your mates. Downstairs promises to be your classic warm and cosy local with Aussie wines and beers on tap. Venture upstairs, and you'll find the terrace bar, where staff will be slinging cocktails and a more substantial food and wine offering.
Named for the scarlet-hued emblem for New South Wales, the venue has a farm-to-table philosophy that directs the choice of suppliers and produce on the menu. Seasonal, local, native and thoughtfully sourced produce will make up the menu — the majority through NSW Growers and First Nations Providores.
On crafting the menu, Prichard — culinary director at The Waratah — says, "The menu is fresh, nourishing and most of all sourced with thought and care."
Prichard will remain at Icebergs but has entrusted the top dog position to his protégé, Lewin White (ex-Bondi Icebergs, Bistro Moncur, RE), as the new head chef for the Darlinghurst pub. The menu and pub lists are under wraps for now, but one thing that Prichard shared, which we're sure will bring footfall to the new watering hole, is a fairy bread ice cream sandwich. Yes, please.
Also slated to be on the payroll is Andie Bulley — current brand ambassador for Monnet Cognac and an award-winning bartender at her current mise-en-place, Savile Row Bar in Fortitude Valley, Queensland.
The Waratah will open in November at 308-310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst. For more details, follow @thewaratahsydney.