Surry Hills has welcomed a charming new addition to its dining scene with the opening of 40Res, a cosy neighbourhood wine bar that prioritises genuine hospitality over flashy trends.
Photo Credit: 40Res
Located at 40 Reservoir Street, the intimate venue is the first solo venture from chef-owner Josh Raine, who served as executive chef at the renowned Tetsuya’s restaurant for six years until its closure in 2024. Raine, who is also the inaugural chef-in-residence and culinary director at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s Restaurant Canvas, has partnered with general manager Keliann Zellman to create what they describe as a relaxed space for locals to enjoy quality food and wine.
The 60-seat venue takes a deliberately low-key approach, situated away from the bustle of Crown Street in a quiet side street near Central Station. The pair have recruited head chef Michael Tran, whose experience includes working at Michelin-starred restaurants in Ldsgondon, including the now-closed Hibiscus, as well as Sydney venues The Bellevue and Clove Lane.
40Res opened its doors in early 2025, with the team focusing on creating an unhurried dining experience where walk-ins are welcome and there’s no time limit on bookings. The interior design makes clever use of the previous restaurant’s infrastructure, featuring whitewashed walls, dried flowers suspended from timber rafters, and artwork by Mitsuo Shoji that creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a European farmhouse kitchen.
The menu reflects both chefs’ international experience, with Raine drawing inspiration from his British heritage alongside global wine bar culture. Dishes include creative takes on familiar favourites, such as coral trout fish fingers served with a house-made pil-pil sauce, and casarecce e pepe featuring the traditional cheese and pepper combination. The kitchen also prepares fresh seafood dishes and seasonal salads to complement the wine selection.
The wine program celebrates boutique winemakers and top-tier Australian produce through a snack-driven menu inspired by the team’s travels abroad. Sommelier Lauren Baker has curated a concise list focusing on drops from boutique producers worldwide, with selections served in quality Plumm glassware.
The venue operates Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm to 11pm, with outdoor seating available year-round thanks to space heaters and blankets provided during cooler months. The philosophy encourages guests to “stop in for a glass, stay for a bottle” and enjoy the beauty of an unhurried evening.
For Surry Hills residents seeking a neighbourhood spot that prioritises quality over pretension, 40Res represents a welcome addition to the local dining landscape, offering the expertise of fine-dining professionals in a relaxed, accessible setting.
More information is available at www.40res.com.au or by visiting 40 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills.
Published 13-September-2025
![Tower Ad](https://brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au/images/thenewtv-tower-ad.gif")
