Continuing the dynamic theme from last month’s missive – we have lots of news to share from our dining tour precincts.

Firstly, we're thrilled to announce the opening of The Hook, a unique Kings Cross venue with an old New York vibe of oysters, classic cocktails and a nightly crooner at the baby grand piano.

In other news, we're delighted to introduce The Waratah, an innovative new venue on our Darlinghurst tour. With its captivating ambiance and beautifully designed up and downstairs spaces this bar and restaurant is a great addition to the Victoria street dining scene.

Lastly, we bid a temporary farewell to Big Poppa's as the crew take a break. While their closure is temporary due to stalled development in the precinct we will still miss the Lamb Ragu and late license venue on Darlinghurst’s Oxford Street. We eagerly await their return, knowing that they'll come back with even bigger beats and more silky pasta than ever before.

As always, stay tuned for more updates and discoveries from Sydney's ever-evolving food scene.

And remember to #supportyourlocal through winter, so we can all enjoy ourselves even more in Summer!

The Waratah joins Darlinghurst Tour

We are happy to announce our newest addition The Waratah as a Mains venue on our Darlinghurst Dining Tour, housed in a transformed grand terrace house positioned perfectly on the corner of Liverpool and Victoria Streets.

This new venue is a joyful celebration of Australiana, blending culinary expertise with artistic flair. Natural elements have been incorporated into the design, from the Waratah lightbox, shining onto Victoria Street, to the hand-painted flora ceiling mural, echoing the beauty of Australian landscapes in the urban setting of uptown Darlinghurst.

The Waratah offers a multi-faceted dining experience that caters to various preferences and occasions, from casual pub-style dining to a more refined and sophisticated atmosphere in the intimate upstairs dining room.

The short but very good menu allows guests to focus on seasonal ingredients from different regions of Australia, adding depth and diversity to the culinary offerings. It's inspiring to see a commitment to showcasing the richness of Australian produce, whether it's the flavours of the Queensland rainforest or using native ingredients like Davidson's Plum and Marigold.

The upstairs verandah provides a relaxed setting for indulging in a dozen Sydney Rock oysters and an Australian sparkling, offering a perfect spot for leisurely dining and people-watching on lively Victoria Street just beyond the filigree balustrade.

The Waratah has settled in nicely to this part of the Darlo ‘hood since its arrival in December 2023, providing a vibrant and welcoming destination that celebrates the best of Australian cuisine and hospitality. We look forward to introducing future guests to this buzzing new dining room.

The Hook

The Hook, nestled on Bayswater Road in the Kingscross Quarter has been masterminded by Dave and Amy Spanton, the dynamic duo behind the transformation of two iconic cafes into fabulous small bars – Piccolo Bar and Vermuteria.

This oyster bar, with its charming saloon-style ambiance lit by colourful lead-light lamps and lined in red velvet curtains, is rekindling the spirit of "oyster culture” on a street that for many decades boasted the famous Bayswater Brassiere.

Dive into freshly shucked oysters adorned with a classic mignonette or The Hook’s own signature Bloody Mary hot sauce. For a nostalgic twist, indulge in the grilled version served in four delightful variations, reminiscent of the '80s. If you're craving heartier fare, the menu also boasts an American-style smash burger + fries and LP's hot dog.

With a few well-known barmen and women at the helm, rest assured the libations are crafted to perfection. Behind a horseshoe bar that caters for all tastes, you'll find a Guinness tap and a splendid array of champagnes. Or if you prefer you can sip on a classic –Martini,  French 75 or a 1940s-style Hurricane and feel perfectly in sync with the venue's old world New York charm.

Spanton's meticulous three-month overhaul of the former Izgara space draws inspiration from journeys across Ireland, UK, and America where the dive bar reigns supreme. Collaborating once again with acclaimed designer Michael Delany, who lent his touch to Piccolo Bar and Vermuteria, the venue boasts a fantastical nautical theme with various ”relics” framed and placed around the room .

Adding to the ambiance will be a variety of performers serenading guests most evenings on the baby grand. Taking pride of place in the very theatrically draped red velvet window setting, over-looking Bayswater Road through the neon lights proclaiming the arrival of oysters & cocktails once again in the Cross. 

Big Poppa’s Takes a break

Big Poppa’s, the beloved haunt known for its late-night servings of pappardelle and extensive wine list, is temporarily closing its doors on Darlinghurst’s Oxford Street.

This unfortunate decision stems from the ongoing redevelopment of the block the restaurant calls home. For the past 21 months, Poppa’s has persevered amidst the construction, trading as usual until the wee hours, seven days a week. However, with delays prolonging the process and posing significant challenges to the business, the team has made the difficult choice to temporarily cease operations.

With optimism for the future, they eagerly anticipate the completion of construction and the prospect of reopening alongside new neighbours. While bidding farewell for now, the team assures loyal customers that this is merely a temporary departure. They promise to return, revitalised and prepared to offer an even better experience. Stay tuned to their social media channels for updates on their triumphant return, as they eagerly await the day when they can once again welcome guests through their doors.