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Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel Earns Global Food Honour

A Sydney seafood restaurant has earned a spot on one of the world’s most prestigious travel lists, with Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the top new dining venues across the globe.

A Sydney Pub Reimagined

The recognition comes from the 2025 Hot List, which showcases standout global spots in food, travel and design. Saint Peter, led by Josh and Julie Niland, moved to its new Paddington home in mid-2024, now serving sustainable seafood inside a reworked 1930s pub.

Saint Peter built its reputation on a bold, zero-waste seafood philosophy, using every part of the fish, skin, eyes, bones and blood. Its move to The Grand National Hotel gave the restaurant room to grow while keeping its intimate feel.

Design That Reflects the Food

Studio Aquilo, the architecture firm behind the transformation, took inspiration from Saint Peter’s disciplined kitchen methods. The materials are subtle and deliberate: polished limestone, stainless steel, walnut timber and textured glass. The finishes create a sense of order and calm, balancing warmth with precision.

Instead of obvious ocean motifs, the design suggests the sea through soft curves, marine tones and clean lines, reflecting the restaurant’s thoughtful use of every ingredient. The space, like the food, is quiet, focused and refined.

A Place to Stay, Not Just Dine

Above the restaurant, 14 boutique hotel rooms extend the same natural tones and refined textures, with blues, soft greens and terrazzo creating a calm, understated feel.

The idea was to offer guests more than a meal, a full experience of hospitality, design and comfort. While Saint Peter has gained international acclaim, the atmosphere upstairs remains relaxed and local. It’s a place for visitors and Sydneysiders alike.

Bookings and Global Recognition

Saint Peter takes bookings for lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday, with two-hour seatings that often fill fast.

book here

The 14-seat counter faces an open kitchen, while the front bar is walk-in only, offering small plates and cocktails on the same days. Dietary needs are considered with notice, though menu changes are limited.

The bar stays unbooked and casual, welcoming walk-ins for drinks or a quick bite. Despite global recognition in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Hot List, Saint Peter remains a Sydney story, shaped by local talent, sustainability and care.

Published 1-May-2025

Surry Hills in Focus: DNA Project Reveals Ancestral Surprises

Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Instagram

Residents of Surry Hills have participated in a large-scale DNA testing project as part of an Australian documentary series uncovering unexpected ancestral connections.

Background and Format of the Series

The four-part documentary series, The Secret DNA of Us, began airing on SBS on 17 April 2025. Hosted by Marc Fennell, with Rae Johnston and Brad Argent, the program offers mass DNA testing to residents in four Australian locations, including Surry Hills. The series aims to reveal hidden family ties and reshape understandings of local and national identity through genetic science.

Developed over ten years and initially trialled in the Cotswolds, the project was ultimately realised in Australia. The featured locations span Bairnsdale, Geelong, Bathurst, and Surry Hills in Sydney’s inner suburbs.

*Caption: Mr Marc Fennell*
*Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Surry Hills Episode: Layers of Migration and Identity

In the Surry Hills episode, DNA results expose complex waves of migration and identity. Stories include links to Russian refugees who arrived through displacement camps and previously unknown ties to underworld figure Kate Leigh. These findings illustrate how successive immigration waves shaped the suburb’s distinctive social fabric.

While some family myths were debunked, others were confirmed in greater detail than previously known. Participants uncovered unexpected ethnic backgrounds and long-lost connections, with some discovering they were related to each other.

Surry Hills DNA Testing — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Ethical Considerations and Participant Experience

While many residents embraced the process, some declined due to concerns around genetic privacy and unexpected revelations. Series producers emphasised voluntary participation and prioritised community safety and emotional care. Participants were briefed on potential outcomes, including the discovery of unknown biological relatives or corrections to assumed ethnic identities.

The team stressed that while DNA offers powerful insights, it cannot replace cultural identity, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Ms Johnston noted that identity also involves connection and acceptance within communities, beyond genetic markers.

The Secret DNA of Us Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Broader Relevance and Impacts

The series reflects a shift in public attitudes towards Australian ancestry. Once-taboo connections, such as convict heritage, are now seen with interest or pride. The program encourages viewers to examine the roles ancestors may have played in Australia’s colonial and post-colonial narratives.

Mr Fennell explained that combining DNA analysis with historical records allows the team to reconstruct local and national stories, showing Australians as the latest chapter in a much older lineage.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Surry Hills instalment of The Secret DNA of Us airs as the second episode in the series, available weekly on SBS and SBS On Demand. The series demonstrates how combining scientific tools with personal narratives can transform perspectives on identity and reveal previously unknown historical links.

Published 24-Apr-2025

Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Emerge in Sydney CBD

Photo Credit: Mayo Clinic

Six people have been hospitalised with Legionnaires’ disease after recently spending time in the Sydney CBD, prompting a public health alert for the area.

Health Alert Following Hospitalisations

NSW Health issued the warning after confirming the six cases. The individuals who did not know each other visited parts of the city centre over the last three weeks before falling ill.

South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit Director, Dr Vicky Sheppeard, confirmed that all six individuals required hospital admission. Health authorities are now asking anyone in the Sydney CBD within the past 10 days to be aware of potential symptoms and seek medical advice if they feel unwell.

About Legionnaires’ Disease and Its Risks

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria. The illness cannot be passed from person to person. Instead, people get infected by breathing in fine water droplets or dust containing the bacteria.

NSW Health indicates that outbreaks can happen when environmental sources, particularly cooling towers on top of large buildings, become contaminated with the bacteria.

Dr Sheppeard explained that symptoms might take up to ten days to appear following exposure to the bacteria. These typically include fever, chills, coughing, and difficulty breathing, potentially progressing to serious chest infections like pneumonia. Certain groups face a higher risk of infection, including older people, smokers, and individuals with existing lung problems or other serious health conditions.

Authorities Investigate Potential Sources

The exact source of the recent infections is still under investigation. Dr Sheppeard noted that the origin of the infections remains unknown, and it is possible the cases are not all connected to a single source.

NSW Health collaborates closely with City of Sydney officials to identify the cause. This work involves checking the maintenance records of cooling towers throughout the CBD to determine which ones require priority inspection and testing. NSW Health also reminds building owners to ensure their cooling towers are properly maintained and operated according to the NSW Public Health Regulation 2022.

Prevention and Health Advice

Controlling the growth of Legionella bacteria in water systems like cooling towers, spa pools, and hot water systems is key to preventing the disease. People can also reduce their risk by being careful around other potential sources, such as potting mix and certain home water sources.

This outbreak follows a significant cluster of over 100 Legionnaires’ cases in Melbourne last year, which sadly resulted in two deaths. Government data indicates that NSW recorded 129 confirmed cases per 100,000 people so far in 2024.

Anyone experiencing potential symptoms should contact their doctor or seek medical advice. For health concerns that are not emergencies, the public can call the free Health Direct service anytime at 1800 022 222. For details on managing water-cooling systems, local public health units can be contacted online or by calling 1300 066 055.

Published Date 21-April-2025

MLK Deli Ordered to Clear Outdoor Seating in Surry Hills

Photo Credit: Paul Fleetwood/Facebook

MLK Deli in Surry Hills has been blocked from using footpath space for outdoor seating, a practice that has sparked safety concerns and resident complaints.

Mlk Deli Told To Remove Outdoor Seating After Local Complaints In Surry Hills

MLK Deli, a popular eatery in Surry Hills, has been told to stop using part of the footpath for outdoor dining after complaints from nearby residents led to a formal review by the City of Sydney Council.

MLK Deli’s plan to add tables and benches to 12 square metres of footpath was knocked back, with council citing safety rules and a lack of space for pedestrians.

Council Denies Application Over Footpath Width And Safety

The City of Sydney said the deli’s plan breached Outdoor Dining Guidelines, which require at least two metres of clear footpath. The proposed layout would have reduced it to 1.5 metres.

Owner Myra Karakelle said the extra seating aimed to ease indoor crowding and improve safety after nearby tree branches fell. She called the refusal unfair, citing council support for outdoor dining.

Community Concerns Led To Investigation

Nearby residents raised concerns about noise, litter, and safety on the narrow footpath. One claimed the deli had previously placed stools outside without approval, prompting a complaint.

The council confirmed that these issues were taken into account when making its decision. Council staff carried out a site inspection before formally refusing the application.

Deli Owner Accepts Decision But Remains Disappointed

Karakelle said she’d remove the outdoor furniture as required, though she felt a small group of locals may have influenced the decision. Despite her disappointment, she values the Surry Hills community and plans to keep operating within the rules.

Council records show each outdoor dining application is assessed individually, with rules in place to protect public space and pedestrian safety in busy areas.

Published 15-April-2025

Surry Hills Architect Weighs in on NSW Housing Pattern Amid Housing Crisis

As Sydney grapples with an ongoing housing shortage, the push for more affordable homes has sparked a debate about the role of standardised designs in urban development. The New South Wales Housing Pattern Book, which introduces pre-approved designs for various types of housing, aims to streamline construction and make housing delivery faster and more cost-effective.

Read: Surry Hills Warehouse to Become $500m Apartment Complex

However, for areas like Surry Hills, known for its unique blend of heritage terraces, modern apartments, and vibrant arts scene, the introduction of these standardised designs raises important questions about how they might impact the character of the neighbourhood.

The NSW Housing Pattern Book includes designs for terraces, semi-detached homes, and mid-rise apartment buildings, all intended to speed up construction processes. While these plans address the need for more housing, their uniformity may not be suitable for every community, particularly in areas like Surry Hills, where the character is defined by a mix of old and new.

The rapid gentrification of the area has already seen significant changes to its landscape, and the introduction of more generic housing options could risk further altering the neighbourhood’s unique charm.

While the intention behind these designs is to provide affordable housing solutions quickly, critics argue that they may not fully meet the diverse needs of Surry Hills’ residents. The area is home to a wide demographic, from young professionals and families to retirees, and the challenge is whether a one-size-fits-all approach can truly cater to the variety of housing needs without compromising the neighbourhood’s character or residents’ quality of life.

Adapting Standardisation to Local Needs

Architect Amelia Holliday, whose studio in Surry Hills was shortlisted in a recent NSW Pattern Book competition, understands the delicate balance between innovation and tradition. While her studio’s entry didn’t win, Holliday appreciates the competition’s potential to foster collaboration across industries.

She believes that architects have a critical role in ensuring that new housing developments remain functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sensitive to the existing urban context. For Surry Hills, this means adapting the standardised designs to maintain the neighbourhood’s distinct character, while also meeting the pressing demand for affordable housing.

By incorporating local design elements and considering the area’s architectural heritage, developers and architects can ensure that new housing complements, rather than disrupts, the existing streetscape. In Surry Hills, where heritage terraces stand side by side with modern apartment blocks, there is potential to create housing that reflects both the historical and contemporary nature of the community.

Read: Mixed Reactions as Surry Hills Development Moves Forward

Meanwhile, the design teams are collaborating and conducting consistent design reviews to ensure the patterns meet the required standards for inclusion in the NSW Housing Pattern Book.

The low- and mid-rise architects’ designs will be combined with the winning designs from the NSW Housing Pattern Book Design Competition to form the NSW Housing Pattern Book, which will be available for use in mid-to-late 2025.

Published 10-April-2025

Marriott Street Terraces Bring a Contemporary Edge to Classic Sydney Living

The final phase of the Surry Hills Village redevelopment has introduced a distinct residential offering in Sydney’s inner city: the Marriott Street Terraces.

Read: New Glebe-Ultimo Cycleway Opens, Paving Way for Surry Hills Link

Located just off Cleveland Street, these three newly constructed terraces mark the conclusion of a years-long transformation of the former Surry Hills Shopping Village site.

Photo credit: SJB/surryhillsvillage.com.au

Designed by architecture firm SJB, the terraces reinterpret the traditional Sydney terrace house with a focus on both contemporary functionality and urban lifestyle. Each of the three residences presents a unique façade, contributing to the sense of individuality within the streetscape. Internally, the layout diverges from convention, with main living areas positioned on the upper floor to maximise privacy and views, while the bedrooms—three in total including a master suite—occupy the entry level.

This reverse floorplan allows the upper level to become the social centre of the home. Kitchens are central to the design, finished with durable stone surfaces and equipped with high-end appliances. A separate scullery and integrated kitchen island further support both everyday use and entertaining. Living areas include a fireplace and custom joinery, with additional features such as a built-in bar tucked behind concealed doors.

Outdoor connections are a key element of each terrace. An adjoining alfresco area, complete with barbecue facilities, extends from the kitchen and living space, taking advantage of the western orientation for afternoon light. Landscaped courtyards and private access options reinforce the balance between openness and seclusion.

Additional practicalities include private parking and on-site storage, features that are often absent in traditional terrace designs but have been integrated here to support modern expectations.

Read: Surry Hills Warehouse to Become $500m Apartment Complex

Set beside Wunderlich Lane, the terraces sit within immediate reach of a growing network of restaurants, bars, and speciality retailers. Though surrounded by activity, their placement off the main thoroughfare allows for a quieter residential atmosphere.

As the final residential release in the broader Surry Hills Village development, the Marriott Street Terraces encapsulate the project’s approach to mixing heritage references with modern urban design.

Published 11-April-2025

New Glebe-Ultimo Cycleway Opens, Paving Way for Surry Hills Link

Photo Credit: LMCloverMoore/Facebook

Sydney cyclists now have a safer 650-metre route between Glebe and Ultimo, advancing the city’s plan for an important connected cycleway reaching into Surry Hills.

New Route Details

A new separated, two-way cycleway is now open and ready for use along Mary Ann and Kelly streets. This path stretches for 650 metres, creating a dedicated east-west link for people riding bikes. It connects riders travelling directly from the lower-traffic streets in Glebe to the Goods Line pathway in Ultimo. From there, cyclists have easier access into Darling Harbour, Haymarket, and other parts of the city centre.

Safer Travel for Community

The opening of this cycleway is particularly good news for the many students and teachers in the area. It provides a much safer journey for those cycling to campuses like the International Grammar School, TAFE NSW, and the University of Technology, Sydney.

The project aims to make cycling a more attractive and secure option than travelling by car through the precinct by creating a separated path. As part of the work, a new crossing for pedestrians and cyclists was also installed at Jones Street, making it safer for people walking near TAFE NSW and UTS.

City Vision for Cycling

Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore AO stated that the city is committed to delivering more bike lanes and improving connections within the cycling network. She emphasised that the goal is to ensure that people who choose to cycle around Sydney can do so safely.

The Lord Mayor noted that this important east-west link will significantly improve cyclist safety, benefiting local residents who might leave their cars at home and the large student population. She added that cycling is a cost-effective and healthy transport choice, and the City of Sydney continues to expand the network to benefit more people.

Transport for NSW’s Executive Director Cities Integration, Kathryn Crestani, said Transport was pleased to support City of Sydney on this project. Ms Crestani stated the new cycleway improves safety and access for riders in the CBD and will help reduce traffic congestion. She also highlighted that cycling supports healthier lifestyles, provides economic advantages for local neighbourhoods, and is an environmentally friendly option for individuals and the community.

Future Connections

This project is a step towards further improvements in Sydney’s cycling infrastructure. The City of Sydney plans to construct another dedicated cycling link, connecting Ultimo with Surry Hills, within the next year. This future project will use a mix of separated two-way cycleways, shared pathways, and routes along quiet streets. It aims to seamlessly connect the Goods Line and existing cycleways on Castlereagh Street and Campbell Street in Surry Hills.

Greener Streets

Alongside the cycling infrastructure, the project has added 300 square metres of new garden beds along the roads. These gardens are intended to help cool the surrounding area and make the streetscape more visually pleasant for the community. The Mary Ann and Kelly streets cycleway was delivered by City of Sydney and received funding from the NSW Government.

Published Date 10-April-2025

New Sydney Fish Market Faces Contractor Collapse in Blackwattle Bay

Photo Credit: New Sydney Fish Market

The redevelopment of Sydney Fish Market at Blackwattle Bay has encountered a financial setback following the collapse of a key construction contractor.

Background and Progress

The new Sydney Fish Market at Blackwattle Bay was designed by the Danish firm 3XN. They designed it alongside BVN and GXN Innovation. It reached a significant structural milestone with its 200-metre-long floating canopy. The roof, comprising 594 timber beams and 400 aluminium cassettes, is now recognised as the largest timber canopy in the southern hemisphere.

Sydney Fish Market delays — *Photo Credit: New Sydney Fish Market*

Originally announced in 2018 and approved in 2020, the $836 million redevelopment aims to revitalise Blackwattle Bay through the addition of 26,000 square metres of retail, dining and public space. The project forms part of a broader urban renewal plan, including a waterfront promenade and over 1,100 new homes.

Financial Setback and Administration

The project’s timeline has been disrupted after Sharvain Facades, a key contractor responsible for the roof’s construction, entered voluntary administration. The firm previously worked on several high-profile façades in Sydney, including the Chau Chak Wing Building. In October 2024, Sharvain Facades reportedly received a $16 million loan from Multiplex, the main contractor, to support its role in the project.

Despite the financial assistance, increasing cost of labour and materials and delays led to the company’s collapse. Multiplex has since called for government support as overall project costs rose from an initial $750 million to $836 million.

Blackwattle Bay development — *Photo Credit: New Sydney Fish Market*

Design and Functionality

The roof’s completion marked a shift from structural work to interior finishes. Designed to reflect traditional market layouts, the building features glass-surrounded ground floor operations including fish landing, wholesale activities and auction areas. Above, public spaces such as restaurants and retail outlets are accessible via plaza-linked auditoriums overlooking the harbour and Anzac Bridge.

Sustainability features of the structure include daylight access, natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and solar readiness.

Sydney Fish Market constructor collapse — *Photo Credit: New Sydney Fish Market*

Community and Urban Impact

Intended as a public destination, the new market integrates working fish trade facilities with tourism and community areas. The redevelopment also aims to improve pedestrian and cycling connections across the harbourfront.

Although the collapse of Sharvain Facades has caused uncertainty, the project continues toward its target completion in 2025.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Proposed Five-Storey Hostel in Chippendale Aims to Accommodate Growing Tourist Numbers

A bold proposal has been lodged in Chippendale, one of Sydney’s rapidly evolving suburbs, aiming to transform a former telecommunications hub into a ‘backpackers accommodation’ that could reshape the local tourism landscape.

Read: Parkline Place: Sydney’s Green Tower to Host NSW Agencies and Private Sector From Early 2025

The site, located at 184-200 Broadway, was once the home of Telstra’s exchange building but is now set to become a five-storey tourist accommodation hub designed to meet the soaring demand for affordable lodging in the city.

Artist’s impression only (Photo credit: City of Sydney DA Tracker)

This $13 million project is poised to bring 1,058 beds to the heart of Chippendale, with the transformation focusing on making the most of the building’s existing structure while reimagining its interior spaces to create a modern, welcoming environment for visitors from around the world.

With a growing number of tourists flocking to Sydney, the need for diverse and accessible accommodation options has never been greater. The development aims to address this gap by offering a unique blend of hostel-style rooms, including four, six, and eight-bed options, perfect for short-term stays, with a maximum stay of 28 days to ensure a constant flow of guests.

The plans (D/2024/1165) also include a host of attractive communal amenities, such as a rooftop terrace complete with a swimming pool and sunbathing decks, as well as an on-site bar and café to create a vibrant social atmosphere.

Guests will be encouraged to engage in activities like walking tours, food and drink sessions, and live events, fostering a sense of community among travelers. To accommodate the growing interest in cycling around the city, the development will also feature 100 parking bays for bicycles.

The choice of Chippendale for this project is no accident. This inner-city neighbourhood has seen rapid gentrification in recent years, with a thriving arts scene, innovative cafes, and a variety of lifestyle offerings that attract both locals and visitors alike. The building’s proximity to public transport and local amenities makes it an ideal location for tourists who want easy access to the city’s top attractions while enjoying the unique charm of a more local, creative community.

The hostel is being designed with a European influence, drawing inspiration from large-scale hostels like the Next House in Copenhagen, known for their modern, functional spaces that cater to a wide range of guests. This international inspiration is reflected in the project’s intention to provide a high-quality, affordable alternative to Sydney’s traditional hotel offerings, which are often out of reach for budget-conscious travelers.

Notably, while the building itself is not heritage-listed, it is situated within the Chippendale Heritage Conservation Area, meaning the development will need to respect the area’s historical significance while introducing a contemporary architectural design. This balance of old and new will help preserve Chippendale’s character while accommodating the needs of a growing and diverse population of tourists.

Read: Legal Dispute Over St Mary’s Cathedral Development Plans in Sydney

As Sydney continues to experience a surge in visitor numbers, with millions of tourists flocking to the city each year, the need for more diverse accommodation options is critical. This Chippendale hostel promises to be a key player in meeting that demand, offering a modern, cost-effective, and community-oriented space for travelers to stay, explore, and connect.

Published 10-April-2025

Surry Hills Streets to Be Transformed Under New Bike Lane Plan

A major change is coming to Surry Hills, where two key streets are set to become part of a new separated cycleway despite local concerns about traffic, safety and parking access.

The City of Sydney approved the Surry Hills to Central Quietway project, moving forward with a plan to convert parts of Cooper and Arthur streets into one-way roads with eastbound cycleways. The project is part of the city’s long-term goal to boost bike use to 10 per cent of all trips by 2030, as outlined in its Cycling Strategy and Action Plan.

Project Scope and Community Impact

The Quietway will form an important east-west cycling route from Elizabeth Street near Central Station to South Dowling Street, improving access for school students, local workers and residents travelling through the area. The council says the changes will reduce traffic volume and speed, while making it safer to walk and ride.

To achieve this, the project will turn sections of Cooper and Arthur streets into westbound one-way roads and install a contraflow cycleway going eastbound. The plan includes widened footpaths, raised pedestrian crossings, new garden beds and tree planting for shade. Lighting and stormwater upgrades will also be part of the works. The design does not involve major changes to road shape, and property access will remain in place.

However, some locals and business owners worry the changes will create new risks. There are safety concerns about the cycleway running past the Evening Star Hotel, where delivery workers regularly move beer kegs across the street. There is also frustration from residents who say the one-way traffic will force detours of up to 1 kilometre just to reach their homes. Others are concerned about rubbish collection and loss of car access to their properties.

Parking and Access Questions

Under the plan, 12 car parking spaces will be removed. Council documents show that 12 new spaces have been identified in nearby streets, though these are still subject to further review and community feedback. Even with this offset, some residents fear that already tight parking conditions in Surry Hills could worsen, especially during peak hours or on weekends.

Business owners also raised issues about service vehicles not being able to turn into driveways, particularly those on Elizabeth Street. The council’s response highlights that changes have been made to the design to protect property access and improve traffic sightlines.

Consultation and Next Steps

The proposal went through public consultation in mid-2024, drawing more than 270 submissions. A majority were in favour of the plan, according to the council’s engagement report, though several changes were made in response to community feedback. These included more traffic calming features, better pedestrian access, and greening efforts with additional trees and garden beds.

Transport for NSW has given in-principle support for the traffic changes. The revised design will be brought to the Local Pedestrian, Cycling and Traffic Calming Committee later in 2025 for further review. Design completion is expected by the end of this year, with construction to run from mid-2026 through to mid-2027, depending on funding approval.

Balancing Safety, Transport and Environment

The Quietway is part of a broader strategy to make Sydney a city for walking, cycling and public transport. The council says the improvements will not only support safe travel but also contribute to healthier lifestyles, lower transport costs and a more environmentally friendly city.

The route is also expected to serve students attending Inner Sydney High School, where 20 per cent of students cycle. It will provide a safer link between Bourke Street Cycleway and Prince Alfred Park, helping reduce the number of cars on the road during school travel times.

Despite concerns, the City of Sydney maintains that the project will improve community safety and access. The council has committed to monitoring traffic conditions after the works are completed and making adjustments if necessary.

Published 28-March-2025