Overview
We've all been there: hankering for a bite to eat after a few drinks, a gig or a show, but unable to find anything that isn't fast food. Yes, Sydney's lockout laws might be behind us, but the city's dining scene isn't always able to serve up something satisfying when it comes to late-night meals — or, sometimes, even somewhere to grab a beverage. During Vivid, however, that's changing at a number of restaurants and bars around Circular Quay. During the huge citywide celebration of arts, music, culture and oh-so-dazzling lights, 12 spots are staying open later than usual.
On the list: Bistecca, Lana, Besuto, Tapavino, Grana, Londres 126, Bar Mammoni and Bouillon l'Entrecote, all of which will trade till midnight Wednesday–Sunday throughout Vivid.
And, if you'd prefer a late-night sip, Double Deuce, Mary's Underground, Apollonia and Maybe Sammy are doing the same — but until 2am.
All dozen venues are expanding their trading hours across those five nights per week — so, every night except Mondays and Tuesdays — throughout the entire festival, which kicked off on Friday, May 27 and runs through until Sunday, June 18. That means that you can pair your plans to see talks, shows, concerts and luminous installations with an 18-course omakase experience, bistecca alla Fiorentina, steak frites, mezcal, burgers, cocktails inspired by The Godfather and mini martinis.
The initiative has been badged Vivid Sydney Later, and is part of the event's efforts to make its first festival since 2019 (thanks to obvious reasons) as big as possible.
Across its opening 2022 weekend, 435,000 folks already hit up the fest. So, wherever you're now planning to head for a drink or bite after checking out the Vivid program, expect to have company.
Vivid Sydney Later runs from Wednesday–Sunday until Sunday, June 18. For further information, head to the Vivid website.