Surry Hills Archives - Page 10 of 19

Wunderlich Lane: A Gastronomic Oasis in Surry Hills

Located at the intersection of Cleveland and Baptist Streets, the soon-to-open Wunderlich Lane culinary and retail precinct marks a significant transformation of the former Surry Hills Shopping Village site, breathing new life into the suburb’s heart.

A Gastronomic Tapestry

*Photo Credit:* *Apollo Restaurant/ Facebook*

At the epicentre of Wunderlich Lane will be Olympus, a sprawling 200-seat Greek garden restaurant helmed by renowned restaurateur Jonathan Barthelmess.

Drawing inspiration from his travels through Greece, Barthelmess aims to showcase the diversity and richness of Greek cuisine, focusing on traditional and regional dishes from the mountainous regions.

*Photo Credit:* *House Made Hospitality/ Instagram*

Adding to the culinary mosaic, House Made Hospitality is set to unveil three distinct venues within the precinct. An all-day café-wine bar will cater to those seeking a casual yet refined experience, while a dedicated cocktail bar will offer expertly crafted libations. Completing the trio will be an Asian-inspired restaurant showcasing the culinary talents of Chef Andrianto Wirya.

*Photo Credit:* *LuMi Restaurant/ Instagram*

Italian cuisine will also have its place in Wunderlich Lane, with Chef Federico Zanellato, owner of the acclaimed LuMi restaurant, set to open a wood-fired pizzeria. This venture promises to be more than just a pizzeria, offering a diverse menu beyond traditional pizza offerings.

Beyond Dining

*Photo Credit:* *Collection by TFE Hotels*

Wunderlich Lane isn’t just about food. The precinct will also be home to The Eve, a hotel with 102 stylish rooms. Over 100 residential apartments will enhance the area’s appeal as a vibrant urban hub. A curated selection of high-end retail outlets will complement the dining options, creating a multifaceted destination for locals and visitors.

A Fresh Start

The Surry Hills Village project, of which Wunderlich Lane is a crucial component, represents a $60 million investment in revitalising the area. A contemporary, mixed-use development that considers the community’s changing needs has replaced the site’s previous incarnation as a shopping centre, known as the “murder mall.”

A Feast for the Senses

Wunderlich Lane’s commitment to culinary excellence extends beyond its restaurants. The precinct will feature diverse specialty food stores, including a flagship Harris Farm Markets. Spanning approximately 1,200 square metres, this market will showcase a wide selection of fresh produce, gourmet groceries, and artisanal products.

With its blend of high-quality dining, boutique retail, and vibrant atmosphere, Wunderlich Lane is poised to become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and discerning shoppers alike. As the precinct prepares to open in late 2024, Surry Hills residents and visitors can anticipate a new era of culinary delights and urban experiences.

Published Date 22-August-2024

Former Waverley Councillor Faces Court for Violent Assault on Elderly Surry Hills Resident

Photo Credit: LinkedIn / Sam Einfeld

Sam Einfeld, a 45-year-old former Waverley councillor and lawyer, appeared in court today, August 22, for a sentencing hearing following his violent assault on 82-year-old Margot Priday in her Surry Hills home back in April 2022.

The court heard that Einfeld, who had been battling a decade-long addiction to prescription medication, rammed his car through Mrs. Priday’s garage door before physically attacking her as she lay defenseless on the floor. The Waverley councillor and lawyer’s assault left the elderly widow with cuts, bruises, and a fractured finger.

**Margot Priday**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Greg Desmond

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mrs. Priday described the lasting effects of the “violent, senseless and unprovoked” attack. “I am wary in public spaces and fearful in private spaces. I startle in my own home and struggle to sleep,” her statement revealed, highlighting the profound impact on this long-time Surry Hills resident’s sense of safety and well-being.

The incident has raised concerns about community safety in Surry Hills, particularly for vulnerable residents. Mrs. Priday’s daughter, Polly, previously expressed their fear for their safety and desire to see Einfeld locked up again.

Einfeld, who was known to the Priday family and had been a promising local politician, told the court that his time in custody had forced him to confront the consequences of his addiction. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I can never forgive myself for what I did, and I’m sorry.”

Einfeld admitted he had not previously sought treatment for his addiction, despite facing charges for separate assaults in 2017 and 2019.

Published 22-August-2024

Torrens University Campus: A Testament to Partnerships and Future-Focused Learning

Photo Credit: Torrens University Australia

Did you know that the Surry Hills campus of Torrens University is a “super campus,” accommodating up to 14,000 students and offering health, business, and hospitality programmes in a heritage-listed site that seamlessly blends historic elements with modern design? It even has a mock hotel lobby for hospitality students, and a fully operational, student-led health clinic called The Practice.

The campus also boasts industry-standard, future-proof learning environments that will benefit students across health, nursing, and hospitality disciplines. It will also house the university’s Social Enterprise Hub, which is set to launch impactful projects, and The Practice Wellbeing Centre, a low-cost health clinic open to the community. These initiatives underline Torrens University’s commitment to social responsibility as a certified B Corporation.

A Milestone Celebration with Government and Industry Leaders

*Photo Credit:* *MPAlisterHenskens/ Facebook*

The state-of-the-art campus was inaugurated with a grand celebration on 13 April attended by notable figures such as Alister Henskens, NSW Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology and Minister for Skills and Training, and John Ajaka, Former State Minister and Chair of Sydney Local Health District Board. Their presence underscored the university’s strong ties with business and government in New South Wales.

Henskens commended Torrens University for its close industry partnerships and highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and universities in driving innovation and job growth.

A New Chapter for Face-to-Face Learning

After two years of online learning due to the pandemic, students and staff are thrilled to reunite at their new home near Central Station.

The campus building, a heritage-listed site, seamlessly blends historic elements with modern design. It features cutting-edge technology for teaching and learning, including a mock hotel lobby for hospitality students and a fully operational, student-led health clinic called The Practice.

Health students will benefit from specialised facilities such as a dispensary for Western Herbal Medicine students, advanced 3D imaging technology for anatomy and physiology classes, and fully equipped hospital labs for nursing students.

The Surry Hills campus is designed to reflect the university’s core values. The emphasis is on fostering industry connections, promoting student well-being, and providing hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

Published Date 09-August-2024

Surry Hills Evening Star Hotel Sold to Universal Hotels Group

The iconic Evening Star Hotel in Surry Hills has been sold to Universal Hotels, marking a significant change in ownership for the historic Sydney pub directly opposite Central Station.

JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group confirmed the sale on the 7th of August 2024, though the exact date the deal was closed was not specified.

The Evening Star Hotel has long been a fixture in Surry Hills, known for its colourful trading history and popularity among media and newspaper tycoons in past years. Its prime location on Elizabeth Street, opposite Central Station, has made it a notable establishment in the area.

The Evening Star Hotel offers a range of services including food and beverage options, as well as gaming facilities with 24 electronic gaming machines. Its strategic position allows it to benefit from growth in the Southern CBD, including developments in the Central Station and Tech Central Precincts.

JLL Hotels’ Managing Director Ben McDonald and Senior Vice President Kate MacDonald handled the transaction. The hotel was sold on behalf of private operators who own several hotels in Regional NSW. It was purchased by Universal Hotels, owned by the Kospetas Family, adding to their portfolio and bringing their total to 17 venues across NSW.

The sale has generated significant interest in the industry, drawing strong attention from publicans seeking exposure in a tightly held market segment. This transaction positions JLL for a leading role in the 2025 fiscal year and is expected to be the first of many transaction announcements in the coming months.

Mr McDonald stated that the firm’s main objective is to improve their clients’ investment strategies, whether buying or selling. He noted that both parties involved in this transaction pleased with the outcome.

Published 9-Aug-2024

The Great Surry Hills Ramen Ruse: How a Living Room Pop-Up Fooled Sydney Foodies

Hundreds of enthusiastic diners formed long lines in Surry Hills, enduring the cold weather to try a newly launched ramen restaurant, only to discover at the end of the evening just how much social media, some clever brand positioning, and social pressure can affect one’s perception of the ‘truth.’

What was promised? An exclusive serving of high-quality ramen from a mysterious new eatery rumoured to have journeyed across the globe. What was the reality? A meticulously planned practical joke by YouTuber Stanley Chen, who converted a modest living room into a mock five-star restaurant, serving only instant noodles along with a touch of irony.

The Deceptive Setup

Mr Chen, known for his sharp wit and social experiments, decided to pull back the curtain on the pretentiousness of the high-end dining scene. With a grudge against overpriced, underwhelming restaurants, he set out to see if he could convince people to fall in love with a restaurant that didn’t even exist.

Mr Chen shared a disappointing experience from his past job at a restaurant. He explained that the eatery claimed to serve fresh food, but in reality, the meals were pre-cooked elsewhere and simply reheated. He was shocked by the high prices, with dishes costing $30 to $40, despite being little more than fancy microwave meals. He felt this practice was dishonest and almost fraudulent.

Stanley Chen Ramen Prank 4 — *Photo Credit: Stanley Chen/YouTube*

Enter Nise Janagaru Ramen—a name that literally means “fake” in Japanese. Mr Chen built an entire online presence around this imaginary eatery, crafting a sleek website and reaching out to food influencers with the allure of a bold, uncharted dining experience.

Nise Janagaru Ramen was marketed as a “Japanese Italian” fusion, with the unique twist that diners would receive a dish customised to “their aura.” The setup was meticulous: a living room in Surry Hills was transformed into an atmospheric restaurant with a DJ, dim lighting, and faux waitstaff—all played by Mr Chen’s friends. The pièce de résistance? Instant ramen noodles, the kind that most people wouldn’t think twice about eating at home on a lazy night.

The Faux Gourmet Experience

On the much-anticipated opening night, the line stretched down the block as hopeful patrons shivered in the cold, eager to be among the lucky few to taste the ramen that had allegedly been served in private tastings around the globe. As the “restaurant” doors finally opened, diners were ushered into a world where reality was put on hold.

Each guest was promised a ramen experience tailored to their essence, resulting in bizarre moments like a couple being told they would have to share a bowl due to their “bad aura.” Mr Chen and his team played their roles to perfection, spinning tales of ancestral ramen recipes and the mystical process that went into creating the perfect bowl. One guest, sporting an earring, was assured that this detail influenced the creaminess of his dish.

As bowls of dressed-up instant noodles were served, diners commented on the unique flavors and textures, unaware that they were consuming the same 70-cent packets available at any supermarket. Some patrons were so impressed by the “Japanese Italian” fusion that they suggested paying $50 or even $80 for the experience.

Meanwhile, outside, the line of expectant foodies continued to grow, with many left disappointed when the 70 packets of ramen ran out.

The Social Media Unveiling

After hours of immersive deception, the reveal came—Mr Chen’s grand experiment was nothing more than a prank, a satirical jab at the food industry’s tendency to prioritise style over substance. When the truth hit social media, reactions ranged from amusement to admiration for the sheer audacity of the stunt. Many praised Mr Chen for exposing how easily perception can be manipulated, especially when it comes to food and branding.

However, others admitted they found the entire experience humorous despite being duped. Some even suggested that Chen’s fake ramen night was more memorable than many genuine restaurant experiences.

A Playful Critique of the Food Scene

Whilst some might have felt cheated by the hoax, Chen’s light-hearted apology—and the fact that the event was free—softened the blow. His prank not only entertained but also served as a playful critique of a dining culture that often elevates form over function.

With just a handful of instant noodles and a bit of clever branding, Stanley Chen proved that perception is often everything in the world of dining.

Published 9-Aug-2024

Surry Hills Welcomes Bistronomie by OK: A Parisian Dream on Crown Street

Photo Credit: Bistronomie by OK/ Instagram

A new culinary star has risen in Surry Hills. Bistronomie by OK, Chef Opel Khan’s latest venture, is making waves in Sydney’s vibrant dining scene. Located on Crown Street, this French bistro is not merely a restaurant; it’s an invitation to experience the soul of Paris without leaving the city.

Bistronomie by OK in Surry Hills, Crown Street — *Photo Credit:* *Bistronomie by OK/ Instagram*

Khan, known for his diverse culinary portfolio, has woven his passion for French cuisine into every aspect of Bistronomie by OK. From the warm, inviting ambience to the meticulously crafted menu, every detail exudes a love for classic French dishes.

The menu at Bistronomie by OK celebrates French gastronomy’s rich and diverse flavours.

Each dish is a symphony of taste and texture, from the escargot, a classic French delicacy, to the melt-in-your-mouth beef bourguignon.

The restaurant also offers a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring a selection of French and Australian vintages, perfectly complementing the culinary offerings.

However, Bistronomie by OK is about more than just the food and wine; it is about the dining experience. The attentive staff, the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, and the lively buzz of conversation create a charming ambience reminiscent of a Parisian cafe.

book a table

For those seeking a taste of France, Bistronomie by OK in Crown Street offers an unforgettable culinary journey. Whether you’re a Francophile or a food enthusiast, this charming bistro promises an authentic and delightful experience.

Published Date 29-July-2024

Akira Isogawa: Former Surry Hills Atelier’s Fashion Pieces Set to Surge in Value

Fashion pieces created by Akira Isogawa, whose atelier once operated in Surry Hills, are predicted to double in price on the secondary market within two years, potentially reaching $1,000 per item.

Andrew Shapiro, managing director of Shapiro Auctioneers, provided this forecast, noting growing interest in Isogawa’s designs both in Australia and overseas.

Designer’s Career Track

Isogawa’s Australian fashion career began in 1988, just two years after arriving from Japan. Key milestones include:

– 1993: Opened his first store in Woollahra
– 1996: Breakthrough presentation at Australian Fashion Week
– 1998: Debuted on Paris catwalks

Studio Locations

Isogawa’s work has been associated with several Sydney locations:

– Surry Hills: Home to his early atelier
– Woollahra: Site of his first retail store on Queen Street
– Strand Arcade: Location of his recent archive store
– Marrickville: Current studio for collaborations and individual clients

His breakthrough moment came during Australian Fashion Week in 1996, where he presented as part of the new generation group show. This event attracted prestigious international buyers, including Browns in London and Biffi in Milan.

Unique Style and Influence

Isogawa’s East-meets-West style, incorporating vintage kimono fabrics, was ahead of its time in embracing upcycling. His designs have been featured in major exhibitions, including shows at the National Gallery of Victoria and the Powerhouse Museum.

Fleur Watson, an associate professor at RMIT University and long-time fan of Isogawa’s work, highlighted the designer’s ability to create preciousness in simple fabrics and his mastery of folding and cutting techniques.

Originally priced between $1500 to $2000 for evening dresses in the 1990s, with later commercial ranges selling for $600 to $1000, Isogawa’s pieces are now highly sought after by collectors.

Shapiro noted that collectors of other Japanese designers like Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto are particularly interested in acquiring Isogawa’s work.

Future Prospects

While Isogawa has stepped back from the mainstream fashion industry as of mid-2023, he continues to work on artistic collaborations and with individual clients from his Marrickville studio.

Watson emphasised the significance of Isogawa’s designs in Australian fashion history, describing them as an important part of the country’s collective culture.

Published 25-July-2024

From Nour to Empire: Moubadder’s Rise in the Hospitality Scene

Photo Credit: esca

In the heart of Surry Hills, Nour on Crown Street stands as a testament to Ibrahim Moubadder’s remarkable rise in the hospitality scene. This one-hatted contemporary Middle Eastern restaurant was the cornerstone that launched Moubadder’s now-thriving Esca Group, marking the beginning of his ascent in Sydney’s competitive culinary landscape.

Moubadder, now 35, opened Nour about eight or nine years ago with a vision to present classic Lebanese flavours in a fresh, exciting way. “When I started Nour eight or nine years ago, I wanted to do great things,” Moubadder said. Little did he know that this ambitious venture would be the first step towards building a hospitality empire.

The story of Moubadder’s success is one of perseverance and passion. Having moved to Australia from Lebanon as a teenager in search of a better life, he initially pursued a career in healthcare. Moubadder completed a nursing degree and worked as a registered nurse for several years while harbouring dreams of studying medicine.

To fund his studies, Moubadder opened a café in Newtown called Cuckoo Callay. This decision would unexpectedly alter the course of his life. “I started the cafe because I needed passive income so that when I went back to uni to study medicine, at least I had that,” Moubadder explained. “But I fell in love with hospitality, the act of giving, giving service, looking at people’s faces while they are enjoying something that you’ve created.”

**Cuckoo Callay in Newtown**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Cuckoo Callay

This newfound passion led to the creation of Nour, which became the foundation of the Esca Group. The restaurant’s concept of reimagining Middle Eastern cuisine resonated with Sydney diners, earning critical acclaim and a loyal following.

**Aalia in Martin Place**
Photo Credit: Instagram / @aaliarestaurant

Today, Nour continues to thrive under the leadership of Executive Chef Paul Farag and Head Chef Gianluca Lonati. The restaurant’s success has enabled Moubadder to expand his culinary vision across Sydney, with venues ranging from Aalia in Martin Place to lilymu in Parramatta Square.

**lilymu in Parramatta Square**
Photo Credit: LILYMU

Moubadder’s journey from a single Crown Street eatery to a string of successful establishments across Sydney showcases the potential for growth in the city’s hospitality scene. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring restaurateurs and a reminder of the industry’s resilience.

As Sydney’s dining landscape continues to evolve, Moubadder remains optimistic about its future. “Sydney is an international city,” he stated, expressing his belief that the hospitality scene is “coming back, and you can see it in certain parts of the CBD. I believe it will be back stronger than ever.”

From the humble beginnings of Nour to his latest ventures, including the upcoming rooftop restaurant and bar Joji in the CBD, Moubadder’s trajectory in Sydney’s hospitality scene is a testament to his vision, hard work, and the enduring appeal of innovative dining concepts in Sydney.

Published 23-July-2024

$5.2-Million Revamp to Transform Former Surry Hills Church into Culinary and Business Hub

A deconsecrated Surry Hills church will soon become a vibrant $5.2-million restaurant and commercial precinct following the approval of the development plans.

Project Details and Community Impact

The project, located at 422-424 Cleveland St and also known as The Kirk, will feature a 200-patron dining hall within the church’s existing structure. An additional six-storey building is set to be constructed behind the church, providing a kitchen for the restaurant and four levels of office space.

This development, DA/2023/997, aims to revitalise the intersection of Crown, Baptist, and Cleveland streets, enhancing the area known as Surry Hills Village.

TOGA’s initiative is designed to attract a diverse crowd, including local residents, workers, and visitors, by offering boutique hospitality and workspace options. The Kirk will operate its dining hall from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, extending its hours until midnight on weekends.

Historical Significance and Architectural Plans

The Victorian Gothic church, constructed in 1879 and operational as a place of worship until 1970, has a storied past, including when it was known for Sydney’s vibrant nightlife under the ownership of Gretel Pinniger, famously known as Madame Lash. The building has served various community purposes over the years and was last used in 2010.

The Kirk Surry Hills Church — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia*

The new plans involve demolishing rear additions to the church and constructing a five-storey infill building that will connect to the church through a new basement level. This development will also feature commercial office spaces and a licensed restaurant that extends across both the new and old buildings, including architectural features like open-pitched portals.

Strategic Development and Future Plans

This redevelopment is part of TOGA’s broader vision for Surry Hills, which includes the Surry Hills Village redevelopment project. This larger project, already underway with a $200-million investment, includes residences, restaurants, boutiques, and workspaces. It aims to transform Surry Hills into a more built-up and diverse commercial, retail, and entertainment hub.

TOGA acquired the church site in November last year for $6 million, viewing it as a prime opportunity for adaptive reuse that respects the area’s heritage and enhances its economic vitality. The overall development is strategically designed to blend The Kirk’s historical essence with modern architectural elements, ensuring a seamless transition between the old and new structures while enriching the local streetscape.

Published 15-July-2024

Surry Hills Venues Among 77 Sites Receiving Grants to Boost Live Music Scene

Seventy-seven NSW venues, including those in Surry Hills, will be able to play louder and longer thanks to grants of up to $100,000 for soundproofing and to encourage live music.

The grants, announced on 30 June 2024, will benefit a variety of venues, from inner city clubs to bush pubs. Among the 21 venues receiving up to $100,000 each are Darlinghurst’s Club 77, The Lansdowne Hotel in Chippendale, and Avoca Theatre. Another 56 venues, including Surry Yulli’s Brews and the Hollywood Hotel in Surry Hills, gain substantial funding to help host live performances.

New Noise Complaint Regulations

Alongside the grants, new noise complaint regulations will come into effect on 1 July 2024. These regulations include the “order of occupancy” as a key factor in resolving noise complaints, ensuring new residents cannot limit the operating hours of long-standing venues.

Additionally, the number of people required to make a statutory disturbance complaint will increase from three to five, requiring complainants to attempt to resolve issues with the venue before lodging a formal complaint.

Liquor & Gaming NSW will now handle all noise complaints related to licensed premises, streamlining the process.

Impact on Venues

Club 77’s director, Dane Gorrel, stated that the funding will significantly change their operations, allowing the club to expand its trading hours. Club 77, a 25-year-old venue known for electronic music, faces noise challenges due to its high-density residential location and old building structure. The soundproofing grant will enable them to trade 24/7 without disturbing neighbours.

“The old NSW sport of moving in next to a music venue and complaining until it gets shut down, is now history. That era is coming to an end,” NSW Arts Minister John Graham said in the press release.

“The soundproofing and venue support will mean venues can host more live music, whilst reducing the impact on their neighbours.

“Bit by bit, we are rebuilding Sydney’s night-time economy, venue by venue, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.

“We made a commitment to increase the number of live music venues across NSW and through ongoing reform and the Venues Unlocked grant programs we are enabling venues to expand their offerings, while also supporting new music venues to get their performance programming off the ground.”

“We know through the recent State of the Scene report that there are 795 venues across NSW that offer live music – so this is a great start to supporting venues in a real and tangible way and to help them navigate the challenges of operating in NSW,” Head of Sound NSW, Emily Collins, said.

“It has been fantastic to work alongside Liquor & Gaming NSW and the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner to deliver the Venues Unlocked program for venues across our state.”

NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues noted that the Vibrancy reforms tackle regulatory challenges, and the Live Performance Venue Program equips hospitality operators with the skills and infrastructure needed to re-establish diverse performance spaces.

These measures reflect a commitment to fostering a vibrant live music scene in NSW, providing financial support and regulatory protection to ensure venues can thrive without conflicts with their communities.

Published 1 July 2024