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Local Restaurant Guide – 2010

We’ve combed Darlinghurst and Surry Hills for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!

1. The Blue Door

About The Blue Door
4.9 Google Rating

8/38 Waterloo St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

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Sarah L
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loved this find during on our little weekend away in Sydney to celebrate my partners 40th. The staff were fun and personable. The ethos around their produce, sustainable & ethical practices within their restaurant through to using and supporting local farmers with sustainable and ethical farming practices is fantastic and something I hope we start to see more of across the board. And the food! A fresh, fun 7 course experience of diverse flavours (wine pairing was also a delight). Unlike many fine dining establishments, this one has zero pretentiousness which to some may appear “too casual” but to me, it’s clear that this restaurant is all about the produce, the food and the connection to both your food, and the company you are with and just enjoying the experience together. No fancy bows, bells or whistles needed. And honestly, as much as in love a fancy degustation experience in a sexy dimly lit establishment, it’s was refreshing to feel at home and welcome in a more casual setting to what you may traditionally expect when you think of “fine dining”. Thanks for having us!! 🙏🏻

Emilie N
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 Stars!
The Blue Door is a true gem! The ambiance is warm and inviting, and the service is exceptional. I love that they focus on farm-to-table, serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make each dish stand out. The courses were absolutely delicious, and you can really taste the difference in the quality of the food. Their commitment to sustainability is clear, and the wine pairings were perfectly chosen to complement each course. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual night out, The Blue Door delivers every time. Highly recommend!

Laurie M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Blue Door is a fine dining culinary delight! This is one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had!! The variety of locally produced food, masterfully cooked into an array of delicious dishes, as the photos show.
The service is excellent with the personal touch you’d expect from the owners attending to you.
We probably went overboard having a full wine pairing each, but we got through it and exited feeling rather merry.
This is a fantastic restaurant and we look forward to coming up with an excuse to return soon.

2. NOUR

About NOUR
4.8 Google Rating

3/490 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

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J
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We tried the banquet menu and we enjoyed it. We loved most of the food, particularly the scallops, fried cauliflower, wood-fired eggplant, and tuna tabbouleh. Found the dessert lacking though, not as refreshing as I expected after the lamb as main dish. Service is good, our big group felt taken care of

Craig T
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It’s a true testament to a dining experience when you find yourself not wanting to leave. The atmosphere perfectly matched the exquisite layers of exciting tastes and textures. The service and attention given during our time had us wanting for nothing. Thankyou for a truely amazing dining experience.. Rach & Craig.

Lia C
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2nd time at Nour and both times impressed by the quality of the food and the service. The lamb and swordfish main were very nice, but the true standouts are the entrees and the sides. Loved the tabbouleh salad and mushrooms in particular

3. NOMAD

About NOMAD
4.6 Google Rating

16 Foster St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

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Chaoqun G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loved it!
Went to Nomad Sydney last Wednesday for their Mezze Lunches – so good! The portions were generous, and the variety of dishes was impressive. Each item was bursting with authentic Middle Eastern flavors. The harissa chicken skewer was a standout – tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. The roasted carrot hummus and grilled halloumi were also highlights. Really authentic Middle Eastern vibes. Staff were friendly too.
Highly recommend if you’re into flavorful food!

Jiantao W
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My local friend told me this is a one-hat restaurant with Middle Eastern fine dining. The place looks nice and the service is also good. The food tasted really flavorful and felt healthy. I ate many kinds of whole grains—very good for digestion. I was impressed by the dessert, with mango flavor ice, ice cream, and fresh mango. Sweet and a bit sour, super cool after a big meal.

S
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nice atmosphere, great service. The food is not bad, but nothing memorable. The olive ice cream was horrible, the biscuit/toppings were so good, but the Ice cream itself… very bad. The Zaatar bread was the stand out, very nice! The lamb shoulder was cooked very tender but lacking much flavour and the scallops were very tasty. Everything else was average.

4. Claire’s Kitchen at le Salon

About Claire’s Kitchen at le Salon
4.5 Google Rating

35 Oxford St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

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Lynne L
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another visit for the duck pie. It’s the only thing I want 😁. The food is fabulous, they do amazing cocktails. The staff are friendly. If there is a show upstairs it can get noisy but everything else is fantastic.

Nicole A
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My all time favourite French restaurant. Both the food and staff are always exceptional! The Steak Tartare and Duck Pie are standouts, a perfect balance of flavour in each dish. Le Citron Cocktail is a must try!

Shyama
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We loved our dining experience at the Claire’s kitchen. Food was delicious and the service was excellent. Restaurant has nice ambience and perfect for a date night. Will definitely return and highly recommend this place to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.

5. The Winery

About The Winery
4.4 Google Rating

285A Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

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Inna M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I would recommend The Winery for a casual lunch or dinner with friends or family. You can sit inside, on the deck or in the garden. I really enjoyed my fish, it was fresh and cooked perfectly. Service was satisfying and I loved sitting on the deck facing the garden. It is a lovely spot for a lunch or a glass of wine anytime of the day. The Quatre Vin organic rose from Provence is a valuable addition to a wine list. It is available by the bottle only, but so easy drinking that one glass is never enough!

Sydney Meetup
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hidden bar styled like a wedding reception with its fancy decks and overhanging lights that gives it a backyard-like atmosphere. No surprise that this laneway bar consistently attracts crowds despite how easy it is for one to pass by the heavy gates.
Val and the team gladly booked us the lower decks (overlooking terrace skylines) and able to stretch to the entrance. The jazz piece band adds natural tunes to the evening rather than a typical playlist on Fridays!
Should keep in mind for anyone after one-on-one dates while unwinding after the CBD hecticness.
Cocktails are kept to the classics – the martinis were fab 🍸
Incredible service by the staff – warm, friendly and professional. Felt very welcome. 10/10 recommend and would go again 🇫🇷

Darryl S
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Easy reservation through their website. We went on a 12nn Saturday lunch. The food was excellent. Portions were appropriate. The barramundi was fresh and the gnocchi texture was excellent. Max was very helpful and approachable and even gave us a brief tour of the function rooms for our event.

Surry Hills Cyclist Critical After Truck Crash at Busy Intersection

A man is fighting for his life after being hit by a truck while riding his bicycle through a Surry Hills intersection, in an incident that’s shaken the local community.

Evening Crash Leaves Cyclist in Critical Condition

The crash happened just before 7 p.m. on Sunday, 2 June, at the intersection of Bourke and Rainford Streets in Surry Hills. According to NSW Police, the 40-year-old cyclist was riding through the area when he was struck by a truck. The man was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to St Vincent’s Hospital in critical condition.

*Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only*

The driver of the truck, a 34-year-old man, was not physically injured. Police confirmed he was taken to the same hospital for mandatory testing, a standard part of investigations in incidents involving serious injury or possible impairment.

Police Call for Witnesses and Footage

Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command closed off the area and established a crime scene shortly after the crash. Specialist police are now reviewing the scene and are working to piece together what led to the collision.

Authorities are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the crash or who were in the area at the time. They are especially keen to obtain dashcam or mobile phone footage that could help in the investigation.

People with information are being urged to contact Surry Hills Police Station directly or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Reports can also be made confidentially online through the Crime Stoppers website.

Community Impact and Road Safety Concerns

The incident has sparked renewed concern in the local Surry Hills community about the safety of cyclists on shared roads. The intersection where the crash occurred includes a bike path that merges into a one-way street, a setup that some residents say can be confusing for both drivers and cyclists.

While no official statements have been made about the cause of the crash, the layout of the intersection and surrounding bike infrastructure may be considered as part of the investigation. Residents and cycling groups have previously called for clearer signage and safer crossing points in the area.

Ongoing Investigation

As of Monday, police had not laid any charges and confirmed that inquiries are ongoing. Investigators will continue to review CCTV, speak with any available witnesses, and wait for the results of the driver’s hospital tests.

The name of the injured cyclist has not been released, and his condition remains critical.

Published 3-June-2025

Paddington Cinema Hosts World’s Leading Smartphone Film Festival

A quiet cinema in Sydney’s Paddington will soon be buzzing with stories from around the world, all captured using just smartphones. The SmartFone Flick Fest (SF3), now in its 11th year, returns to the Palace Chauvel Cinema with more than $50,000 in prizes and entries from filmmakers as young as five and as old as eighty.

Local Stage, Global Stories

The festival will run from 7 to 9 November, turning Paddington into a hub for creative minds who rely not on expensive gear but on everyday devices to tell powerful stories. The Chauvel Cinema will host screenings of the top entries, red carpet premieres, networking events, and masterclasses aimed at growing skills in areas such as film sound, screenwriting, and music composition.

Organisers say entries are open until 1 September, welcoming filmmakers of all levels from across Australia and around the world. The event, which began as a grassroots movement, has grown into a respected platform that highlights the possibilities of mobile filmmaking. It features five main competition categories: Gala Finals, Kids, Feature Films, SF3 Mini (three-minute films on the theme “Breath”), and a dedicated SF3 AI section for projects exploring artificial intelligence.

SF3 Day 2 Kids — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Celebrating Talent and Access

Festival co-founder Angela Blake said the goal is to show that anyone can be a filmmaker if they have a story and a phone. She encouraged people from all walks of life, regardless of background or experience, to take part. Blake believes accessibility is key to broadening the range of voices represented on screen.

Mina Asfour winning at SF3 2024
Photo Credit: Supplied

Returning ambassador and film director Phillip Noyce noted that SF3 empowers creators by removing the need for expensive equipment. He said the festival provides an important outlet for aspiring storytellers who may not have access to traditional industry pathways.

Actor John Batchelor, another ambassador, described his experience filming a smartphone project as eye-opening, explaining how the compact gear opened up new creative opportunities in tight spaces.

Support and Industry Links

The 2025 edition includes significant backing from industry sponsors, including Blackmagic Design and Røde Microphones. Røde’s Ryan Burke said strong storytelling doesn’t need a large budget, and the company is proud to help showcase creativity powered by everyday tech.

Chicken & Chips Casting continues its support with the SF3 Best Pitch Award, offering entrants the chance to have their pitched film professionally cast. Filmmakers must submit either a one-page document or a one-minute video pitch by 17 June to qualify.

Sponsors like Melodie Music are also playing an important role by granting access to full music catalogues for films entered into the competition.

Nicole da Silva and Dr Benjamin Schostakowskipresenting at the SF3 Gala 2022 — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Community, Creativity, and Recognition

The festival offers 36 awards, with categories ranging from Best Film and Best Director to specific recognition for First Nations storytelling and female creatives. The event aims to provide not just prizes but genuine industry exposure and learning opportunities.

Judges and mentors include well-known industry figures such as Louis Nowra, Ros Gentle, and Yolandi Franken, adding further credibility to the competition.

Blake said the festival’s mission is to support creatives of all ages and backgrounds: “We want people to know that there’s a place for their stories, no matter where they come from or what equipment they have.”

For full entry details, updates, and the official festival trailer, visit www.sf3.com.au.

Published 28-May-2025

Bar Conte Grows from Surry Hills to Sydney CBD

Photo Credit: Conte Sydney/Instagram

Bar Conte has expanded its Negroni-focused Italian dining from Surry Hills to a larger, two-level venue in Sydney CBD, continuing its distinctive offering.

Background and Concept Development

Bar Conte originally launched in Surry Hills as what is promoted as the world’s first dedicated Negroni bar and Italian restaurant. Located at the corner of Riley and Foveaux Streets, the venue introduced a model focused on Italian cocktails and shared dishes, with operations extending from morning coffee and brunch through to aperitivo and dinner service.

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The Surry Hills site includes a day menu under the banner of Caffè Conte, offering breakfast specials, sweet displays, focaccia sandwiches, and pasta lunch sets paired with drinks. The drinks menu presents over 30 Negroni variations, tasting flights, and a wide range of aperitivi, amari, vermouths, and Italian wines.

*Photo Credit: Bar Conte Surry Hills/Instagram*

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Sydney CBD Expansion

Bar Conte’s operators have now opened a new location on 151 Clarence Street in the Sydney CBD. Branded as Conte Sydney, the venue features a 130-seat capacity across two floors and builds on the Surry Hills format with a broader scale.

This new venue continues the Negroni theme with over 40 varieties, including infused and barrel-aged versions, premium spirits, and a $1000 Negroni available by pre-order. The menu also features an extensive selection of Italian vermouths, bitters, gin, and amari, highlighting premium and rare labels across categories.

Bar Conte Sydney Italian food — *Photo Credit: Bar Conte Sydney/Instagram*

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The food offering at Conte Sydney mirrors the Italian focus of the original site, with updated versions of established dishes such as focaccia, fritto misto, Wagyu tartare, and handmade pasta. Mains include dishes like duck breast with beetroot and a one-kilogram T-bone steak. The kitchen remains open until late, maintaining the flexibility seen in the Surry Hills location.

*Photo Credit: Bar Conte Sydney/Instagram*

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Design and Layout Distinctions

While both venues emphasise Italian hospitality, the CBD site presents a more formal dining environment. Interiors feature green marble, nine-metre ceilings, and vintage Italian film and liquor artwork.

Seating options include booth dining, bar stools, and an upstairs space with views over the venue. The upper level also houses private dining areas and function rooms, including the Negroni Room, intended for tastings and events.

*Caption: Bar Conte Sydne | 151 Clarence Street, Sydney*

In contrast, the Surry Hills location maintains a homely and compact atmosphere, with an emphasis on day-to-night service that accommodates both casual and cocktail-focused visits.

*Caption: Bar Conte Surry Hills | 340 Riley Street, Surry Hills*

Comparison Between Locations

Bar Conte in Surry Hills serves a neighbourhood clientele with day menus and accessible lunch specials, while Conte Sydney in the CBD targets a more expansive audience with an elevated layout and late-night offering.

While the two operate independently, they share core elements—premium Italian spirits, Negroni innovation, and a consistent commitment to Italian dining culture.

Ongoing Development

With two locations now operating in Surry Hills and Sydney CBD, Conte continues to expand its position in Sydney’s hospitality scene. Both venues maintain distinct identities while adhering to a shared vision of Italian-focused cocktails and food.

Published 24-May-2025

Parking Space Sells for $608,000 in Sydney CBD

Photo Credit: Colliers

A six-car parking lot in Sydney CBD has sold for $3.65 million, setting a new national benchmark with each individual space valued at over $600,000.

Record-Breaking Sale in Sydney CBD

A cluster of six parking spaces located at 2 Phillip Street, Sydney CBD, has sold for a total of $3.65 million, with each space effectively priced at $608,000. The property is part of The Quay, a 29-storey residential complex positioned near Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House.

Sydney CBD parking — *Photo Credit: Colliers*

Background of the CBD Parking Market

Parking in the Sydney CBD has become increasingly valuable due to limited availability and high demand from both residents and commercial occupants. Prior to this sale, the highest known price for a single parking space in Australia was $304,700, recorded at Notts Avenue, Bondi, in January 2024.

Details of the Transaction

The six spaces were sold by Colliers Sydney through agents James Cowan and Cameron Colquhoun. Situated on the ground floor of the building, the spaces feature direct street access. The listing attracted strong interest, with 92 inquiries and 16 inspections prior to auction. More than 30 bids were submitted, with the reserve reached early in the process.

Investment Appeal in Sydney CBD

The location of the property, approximately 150 metres from Circular Quay Ferry Terminal and train station, has contributed to its appeal. The proximity to major residential developments such as Opera Residences and Bennelong Apartments has further heightened demand for secure, centrally located parking.

Sydney property market — *Photo Credit: Colliers*

Market Trends and Community View

Alice Stolz, Domain’s Property Editor, noted that some buyers view parking acquisitions as lifestyle decisions. In suburbs like Bondi, individuals are willing to pay premium prices for convenient access to high-traffic areas, such as beachside locations.

Future Implications

The high sale price reflects the scarcity and competitiveness of secure parking options in central Sydney. While not explicitly stated by agents, the outcome may be viewed as indicative of broader interest in non-residential assets in the Sydney CBD.

Published 22-May-2025

Man Threatens Staff at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, Triggers Lockdown

Photo Credit: St Andrew's Cathedral School/Facebook

St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney was forced into lockdown after a man threatened staff and entered a classroom, sparking a swift police response.

Lockdown Triggered by On-Campus Threat

The incident unfolded on Monday morning, 20 May, when a 46-year-old man, later identified by police as Marc Ben James O’Har, entered the school without permission. He threatened a security guard, reportedly saying, “Don’t touch me or I will jab you with a needle,” before making his way inside the building and reaching a classroom with students.

*Photo Credit: St Andrew’s Cathedral School/Facebook*

Staff placed the school into lockdown as police searched room by room, though the man wasn’t found on campus at the time. He was later arrested around midday at a Surry Hills hotel, where he was reportedly acting erratically. Police said he had no connection to St Andrew’s Cathedral School and appeared disoriented.

Charges and Courtroom Outburst

O’Har appeared in Downing Centre Local Court the next day, pleading guilty to unlawful entry and intimidation. He caused delays by shouting obscenities and refusing to speak with his lawyer, claiming he’d been naked during a prior attempt at contact.

*Photo Credit: KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels*

Magistrate Greg Grogin intervened, and the accused eventually agreed to proceed with representation. The court also heard that a mental health assessment would be conducted before addressing an additional charge relating to goods in custody. Bail was refused, and sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday.

Community Impact and Past Tragedy

While no injuries were reported, the event sparked anxiety within the school community, which is still recovering from a recent tragedy. Less than two years ago, the school was the site of a murder involving a young staff member.

The school confirmed O’Har was not known to any staff or students and praised the swift actions of police and staff during the lockdown. The incident has highlighted the need for strong campus security and emergency planning, particularly in inner-city schools.

Focus on Safety and Support

The NSW Department of Education has not commented publicly, as the school is an independent institution. However, counsellors have been made available to students and staff affected by the event.

School leaders have reviewed safety procedures and said they’re confident in the emergency response, with families promptly informed once police gave the all-clear. Many in the community, including parents, have praised the school’s transparency and the quick actions of police.

Published 20-May-2025

Wrexham’s Hollywood Owners Bring UK Club Hype to Allianz Stadium in Sydney

Photo Credit: Wrexham AFC/Facebook

Wrexham AFC, the Hollywood-owned football team that’s sparked a global fanbase, is set to take on Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium in a headline local match.

A Club’s Unlikely Rise

The Sydney match will take place on 15 July, with Wrexham facing Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park. Other tour stops include Melbourne on 11 July and Wellington, New Zealand on 19 July.

Wrexham’s rise from England’s fifth tier to the Championship has drawn global attention. The club’s rapid climb began after Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought it for $4 million in 2021.

The Disney+ series “Welcome to Wrexham” helped turn the club into a global name. Since the takeover, Wrexham’s value has surged to $200 million, with fans now reaching far beyond Wales.

Allianz Stadium Set for Local Football Showcase

Allianz Stadium in Moore Park will set the stage for Wrexham’s Sydney match. Known for hosting major clubs like Sydney FC and the Waratahs, the venue is no stranger to big moments. With the buzz around Wrexham’s Hollywood rise, local fans are expected to show up in force.

Tickets are now available through Ticketek, starting at $59 for adults and $39 for children. Organisers say demand is already strong, especially with school holidays around the corner.

Reynolds’ Appearance Still Unconfirmed

It’s unclear if Ryan Reynolds will attend the match. Wrexham board member Humphrey Ker said they’re trying to get him to Sydney, possibly with help from Hugh Jackman. There’s been no confirmation yet.

Even without Reynolds confirmed, the club’s visit is making waves. NSW officials see it as a tourism boost and a chance to put local sport on the world stage. Minister Steve Kamper said Wrexham’s broad appeal brings both economic and sporting upside.

Fans Get Rare Chance to Cheer Live

For many Australians, this may be the only chance to see Wrexham live without going overseas. The centrally located Sydney match is already drawing interest from local clubs and school groups.

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As the countdown begins, Wrexham’s story continues to grow, not just as a sporting tale, but as a rare mix of community, pop culture and persistence, now landing at one of Sydney’s premier venues.

Published 15-May-2025

Sydney Metro West Dig Reveals Hidden Colonial-Era Structures in City’s Heart

Photo Credit: Sydney Metro/Facebook

A significant archaeological find beneath the Sydney Metro West construction site has been uncovered — remnants of early colonial life, just metres beneath one of the CBD’s busiest areas.

Historic Footprints Beneath the Pavement

During Sydney Metro West works at Hunter Street station, archaeologists uncovered building foundations once owned by 19th-century merchant Prosper de Mestre. His home and office stood where De Mestre Place now runs between George and Hunter streets.

The find came during work on the $25 billion Sydney Metro West line linking the CBD to Parramatta, with remains dating back nearly 200 years to early European settlement.

A Glimpse into Colonial Sydney

The site revealed early 19th-century artefacts including an 1834 coin, slate pencils, glass beads, bottle fragments, and bullet shells from Sydney’s first military barracks.

Researchers found the site was used for military waste in the 1790s. By the 1840s, it had evolved into a built-up area, showing Sydney’s early urban growth.

Community Ties and Ongoing Discovery

Descendants of Prosper de Mestre and historians helped confirm the find with records and knowledge of the site. Sydney Metro teams and archaeologists are now documenting and preserving the materials.

Transport officials have described the discoveries as a significant reminder of how infrastructure work can uncover unexpected layers of the past. The items and information from the dig will help broaden public understanding of Sydney’s urban growth and colonial heritage.

Sharing the Story with the Public

The artefacts will be shown at a community event on 18 May, giving locals a chance to explore the area’s hidden past. Organisers say it’s an opportunity to reflect on how the city has changed over time.

The Sydney Metro West project, while focused on the future of transport, has unintentionally offered a glimpse into the past. In the process of digging forward, it has also dug deep.

Published 15-May-2025

Surry Hills Residents Face Fewer Local Festivals Due to Park Policy

Photo Credit: Night Noodle Markets/ Facebook

Surry Hills and other Sydney communities will have fewer opportunities for local festivals and gatherings after authorities reaffirmed their ban on many events in local parks.

Initially made in 2022, this decision has sparked debate about its impact on community spirit and the city’s economic vitality.

Council’s Reasoning and Premier’s Disagreement

local festivals — *Photo Credit:* *Night Noodle Markets/ Facebook*

Council has stated that the increasing severity of weather events due to climate change, particularly heavy rainfall, has caused significant damage to parklands during and after large outdoor events. They argue this damage disrupts public access and requires costly repairs.

However, NSW Premier Chris Minns has strongly criticised this justification, suggesting it masks Council’s reluctance to host such events and negatively affects efforts to bring life back to Sydney’s centre. He expressed concern that this stance could influence the state government’s willingness to support future parkland expansions proposed by Council.

Community Impact and Economic Concerns

The ban means that many community-focused events, especially those run by smaller organisations that cannot afford larger state-run venues like the Domain, can no longer take place in local parks. Councillor Olly Arkins had attempted to have the Council approve new commercial events in Victoria Park, highlighting the importance of these events for neighbourhood connection and celebrating local culture through music and creativity.

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou has warned that this policy harms Sydney’s cultural and economic scene, impacting its reputation as a global city. Event promoter Simon Beckingham shared that recent proposals for music festivals in Victoria Park and Sydney Park in Alexandria were rejected, placing Sydney behind other major international cities in its event offerings.

Chef Luke Mangan, who is trying to establish a new Sydney Food Festival, described the blanket ban as unreasonable and suggested a system where event organisers are responsible for restoring parklands to their original condition.

Council’s Response

A Council spokesperson suggested that the state government should make venues like the Domain and Tumbalong Park more affordable for event organisers. They argued that if these larger spaces were more financially accessible, they would provide more options for live music and other events without the risk of damaging local parks or limiting residents’ access to them.

The ban followed incidents like the Night Noodle Markets in 2022, which left Prince Alfred Park significantly damaged. Certain long-standing community events, like Mardi Gras Fair Day and the Yabun Festival, are exempt from the current restrictions.

Published Date 15-May-2025

Sydney CBD Buildings Set for Demolition for New Town Hall Square

Photo Credit: LMCloverMoore/ Facebook

The Sydney CBD is poised for a major change as the city authority moves forward with its proposal to demolish several older commercial buildings to create a large public plaza across from Town Hall.

Sydney ratepayers have already spent over $36 million on the upkeep and improvements of these buildings that are now set to be removed for this major civic space.

Council voted in February to speed up the demolition work for the long-planned Town Hall Square, aiming to start in early 2028 and finish by early 2031. A total of $150 million has been set aside in the Council’s draft long-term financial plan for this project.

LM Clover Moore told a Council committee meeting that strong community support exists for this bold undertaking. He hoped that the state and federal governments would also contribute to what she believes will be a very important place for Australia’s global city.

Long-Term Vision

The idea for a civic square in this part of the city has existed since the early 1800s, and past administrations have acquired land on George and Park Streets for this purpose since the 1980s.

Council’s chief executive officer stated that $36.4 million has been spent in the last five years on the six properties marked for demolition, including $16 million on regular maintenance and ensuring they meet regulations and another $20 million on renovations and upgrades.

Council believes continuing to invest in buildings intended for demolition is not sensible. Ms Moore explained that the increasing costs of maintaining and upgrading these buildings to current standards and attracting new tenants are becoming too high.

Impact on Businesses and Residents

Among the businesses affected by these plans is the Woolworths Town Hall supermarket, a crucial shopping spot for people living and working in the Sydney CBD. Under its chief executive officer, Monica Barone, Council is looking to start the demolition within the current term, which could mean one less supermarket for nearly 30,000 residents in the area.

A spokesperson for Woolworths said that their Town Hall store is very popular and that they are talking with Council to understand the plans and the timeline better. Council has confirmed that these discussions with Woolworths are ongoing and will be considered as the project develops.

Broader City Transformation

The new Town Hall Square project builds on the recent pedestrianisation of George Street, which has created more than 26,000 square metres of public space. Council reports that this change has encouraged over $8 billion in private investment and has seen more people returning to the city centre.

Ms Moore said that pushing ahead with this project is a response to changes since the pandemic, such as high numbers of empty older office buildings and changing expectations from tenants. She noted that while current leases on the buildings on the Town Hall Square site cover their upkeep, the cost to upgrade them to meet current standards has become too expensive. Council believes it must reassess projects and adapt to changing circumstances to serve the city and its people best.

Community Reactions

Online discussions show a mix of opinions about the project. Some people are keen on improvements to the nearby town hall station. There are worries about the potential loss of the Woolworths supermarket and the underground food court, with some hoping the supermarket can remain in some form. Concerns have also been raised about the design of the new square, with some fearing it will be a large, unshaded concrete area that might not be very inviting, especially in warmer months.

Some have compared it to Melbourne’s Federation Square and questioned whether lessons have been learned about creating a useful public space. Others are more optimistic, hoping for a European-style plaza with cafes and restaurants to bring life to the area and provide a central gathering point for events and festivals. One commenter praised Council’s long-term approach to acquiring the necessary land for the project.

Upgrade of Sydney Square

The development of Town Hall Square is happening at the same time as a $35 million upgrade to Sydney Square, the plaza between Town Hall and St Andrew’s Cathedral, built in the 1970s. This upgrade aims to refresh the space with new granite paving, trees, and street furniture that matches George Street, continuing Council’s wider plan under the Sustainable Sydney 2030-2050 vision.

Ms Moore believes that as more people are encouraged to return to the city for work, tourism, and social activities, the need for a large civic square has never been clearer, stating that this new civic square will further their work in creating a city for people.

Published Date 14-May-2025

1. The Blue Door

About The Blue Door4.9 Google Rating

Google Reviews

2. NOUR

About NOUR4.8 Google Rating

Google Reviews

3. NOMAD

About NOMAD4.6 Google Rating

Google Reviews

4. Claire’s Kitchen at le Salon

About Claire’s Kitchen at le Salon4.5 Google Rating

Google Reviews

5. The Winery

About The Winery4.4 Google Rating

Google Reviews

Evening Crash Leaves Cyclist in Critical Condition

Police Call for Witnesses and Footage

Community Impact and Road Safety Concerns

Ongoing Investigation

Local Stage, Global Stories

Celebrating Talent and Access

Support and Industry Links

Community, Creativity, and Recognition

Background and Concept Development

Sydney CBD Expansion

Design and Layout Distinctions

Comparison Between Locations

Ongoing Development

Record-Breaking Sale in Sydney CBD

Background of the CBD Parking Market

Details of the Transaction

Investment Appeal in Sydney CBD

Market Trends and Community View

Future Implications

Lockdown Triggered by On-Campus Threat

Charges and Courtroom Outburst

Community Impact and Past Tragedy

Focus on Safety and Support

A Club’s Unlikely Rise

Allianz Stadium Set for Local Football Showcase

Reynolds’ Appearance Still Unconfirmed

Fans Get Rare Chance to Cheer Live

Historic Footprints Beneath the Pavement

A Glimpse into Colonial Sydney

Community Ties and Ongoing Discovery

Sharing the Story with the Public

Council’s Reasoning and Premier’s Disagreement

Community Impact and Economic Concerns

Council’s Response

Long-Term Vision

Impact on Businesses and Residents

Broader City Transformation

Community Reactions

Upgrade of Sydney Square

About The Blue Door
4.9 Google Rating

About NOUR
4.8 Google Rating

About NOMAD
4.6 Google Rating

About Claire’s Kitchen at le Salon
4.5 Google Rating

About The Winery
4.4 Google Rating