Despite the potential to create hundreds of jobs, the developer behind the $60m redevelopment on Elizabeth St in Surry Hills claims that lack of commercial interest has hampered progress.
The substantial redevelopment plan, approved in September 2023, aims to transform vacant buildings into a 10-storey commercial hub in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. The proposed site, located just meters from public transport on Elizabeth St in Surry Hills, is set to include 6,300 square meters of new commercial office space alongside ground-floor retail.
This development would convert five separate terrace buildings into modern office spaces reaching 50 meters in height, significantly changing the area’s landscape.
The $60-million project, spearheaded by the development company Stasia, is projected to generate between 200 and 300 construction jobs and an additional 800 to 1,200 operational jobs once completed. This job influx is anticipated to revitalise the local economy and enhance the area’s unique character through increased activity and service demand.
Photo Credit: Stasia
Commercial Interest and Challenges
While initial documents from the City of Sydney suggested that the development would attract major creative firms, Matthew Harris, a Stasia project developer, reported that commercial interest has been disappointing.
Mr Harris highlighted the challenges of securing commercial tenants without significant precommitments, indicating that the market’s dynamics have shifted unfavourably over the years.
The redevelopment is expected to have a broader positive impact on the community by activating the precinct. The plan includes the creation of a new laneway and significant architectural contributions by Candalepas, enhancing pedestrian connectivity between Foster Lane and Reservoir Street. These changes will foster a vibrant, transient working population and stimulate further commercial growth.
Surry Hills welcomes a serene escape with the arrival of Capybara Bathing, a unique sauna spa that invites visitors to unwind and ease their mind from the buzzling city life.
Found on Commonwealth Street, Capybara Bathing offers a space where phones are encouraged to be put on DND, or better yet on airplane mode, allowing customers to distress themselves upon entry.
Co-owner Natalie Cheung envisioned Capybara Bathing as a retreat from urban chaos, where people can experience a slow-paced life rather than their normal busy one.
Ms Cheung, along with a team of friends including Daegeon Song, Justin Lo, Nicholas Souksamrane, Sebastian Tsang and Rebecca Qin, drew inspiration from global wellness traditions to create a sanctuary that celebrates relaxation and cultural diversity.
The uniqueness of the spa’s name didn’t go unnoticed. According to the team, the name reflects their philosophy of friendliness and wellness inspired by the animal, capybara, itself.
Unlike other relaxation and wellness centers, inclusivity and uniqueness is found within the four-heated walls of Capybara Bathing that pays homage to bathing rituals from Japan, Russia, Morocco, and beyond.
Ms Qin referenced a Northern Asian family tradition of resting on hot benches in public bathhouses after their sauna.
Through these influences, the concept of Capybara Bathing was born, offering heated benches and communal spaces that encourage connection and rejuvenation that everyone deserves.
Local artists and designers contributed to the spa’s ambiance, with ceramic basins crafted by Daegeon Song and staff uniforms designed by Sean Tran of Redfern-based label Shhorn.
The space also features artwork by Sally Anderson and lush plants sourced from High Swan Dive in Newcastle.
Guests can indulge in a 90-minute session that includes time in a hot-stone sauna, steam room, and a large heated magnesium bath. Scrubs are available for purchase, and there’s even a two-person ice plunge and nooks that are specialised for heated bench and ice scrub—a refreshing addition to the spa experience.
Surry Hills residents rejoice! Craving a delicious meal after 9:00 p.m.? Look no further than Bar Conte! The owner of Australia’s first negroni bar has introduced a late-night dining menu, drawing inspiration from his Italian heritage.
Inspired by the Italian lifestyle where late dinners are the norm, Bar Conte will now offer patrons delicious food options from an acclaimed chef until 11:15 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This comes as a welcome change for Mr Lombardi, who, like many others, found himself limited to fast food choices after a late night out or his son’s Sydney FC soccer practice.
“It’s been a struggle for me in Sydney to have dinner late,” says Mr Lombardi. “Even 9pm is too early for me, but so many restaurants close their kitchens before then.”
With the new menu, Bar Conte moves beyond smaller share plates to offer more substantial, satisfying dishes.
Head Chef and co-owner Steven De Vecchi, formerly of Potts Point’s famed Apollo, has crafted a menu featuring over seven pastas, including king prawn and squid ink spaghetti, alongside a showstopping 500g O’Connor rib-eye steak.
“Everything is made to share and comes in generous portions,” explains Mr Lombardi. “It’s high-quality food, but it’s not fine dining—that’s the Italian way.”
Taking a cue from traditional Italian bars, Bar Conte aims to be a one-stop-shop for all your cravings, from morning coffee and pastries to late-night digestives. With plans to extend their late-night dining options to earlier days of the week, Bar Conte promises to be a haven for those seeking a taste of Italy, no matter the hour.
“Sly Groggin’ with Kate Leigh the Gangster Queen,” an event series, is set to captivate audiences with spellbinding intimate performances, plunging them into the heart of the infamous history of Surry Hills.
This immersive experience will run from Saturday, 20 April 2024, until Saturday, 11 May 2024, at Jazzy Cafe Bar on Devonshire Street, a venue steeped in history. The site is the former residence of Kate Leigh, the most notorious gangster queen of Surry Hills. Ms Leigh operated her sly grog business from this location until her later years.
Photo Credit: Jazzy Cafe Bar/Google Maps
“Sly Groggin’ with Kate Leigh the Gangster Queen” promises to transport attendees back to the turbulent 1920s and ’30s of Surry Hills, offering a glimpse into the life of Ms Leigh and her associates, Snowy “Magic Gingers” Mackenzie and Bludger “Banjo Playing” McGurk.
Guests are invited to knock on the door of Ms Leigh’s illegal bar, entering a world where the lines between law and crime blur. The intimate setting of Jazzy Cafe Bar, limited to 20 attendees per session, ensures a personal experience with true stories about Ms Leigh and her cohorts.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The narrative focuses on their exploits during the Depression era, highlighting Surry Hills’ transformation from a destitute neighbourhood to its present-day refined character.
The event is a storytelling session and a social gathering where guests can meet at shared tables. Upon arrival, guests will be served an antipasto plate and desserts will be served during the interval. This format encourages interaction among attendees, making the experience more communal.
Surry Hills’ history as a haven for criminals in the early 20th century, with large Catholic families living in cramped conditions and a proliferation of illegal activities, sets the backdrop for this performance. The series aims to educate and entertain by highlighting a pivotal time in the suburb’s past, making history accessible and engaging through the arts.
For more details, reservations, and inquiries, interested parties can reach out via phone at (02) 8034 4036, email at snazzy@jazzycafebar.com.au, or visit the official site.
The Evening Star Hotel, a prominent fixture on the border of Surry Hills and the Sydney CBD, has hit the market, presenting a rare opportunity for investors and operators in this thriving inner-city suburb.
Situated on Elizabeth Street, just steps away from Central Station and the Light Rail, the Evening Star is poised to benefit from the ongoing transformation of the area. The hotel’s prime location puts it at the heart of Sydney’s burgeoning $3 billion Tech Central precinct, which is expected to bring an influx of approximately 25,000 office workers to the neighbourhood.
The property boasts a spacious public bar, commercial kitchen, and a separate gaming room operating under a valuable 24-hour license. With 24 gaming machines and a historically strong ranking in the Top-250, the Evening Star presents significant potential for revenue growth, particularly in its food offerings.
Current owner Barham Hamarashid, who acquired the hotel in late 2020 for $12 million, has overseen recent refurbishments to both the bar and gaming areas. The sale comes as part of a shift in Hamarashid’s portfolio, which includes other commercial properties in Surry Hills.
Ben McDonald of JLL Hotels, who is handling the sale along with colleague Kate MacDonald, emphasised the unique positioning of the Evening Star. “This property offers a convergence of demand drivers that are rare in the tightly-held Sydney CBD and fringe areas,” McDonald stated.
The sale is expected to attract strong interest from operators looking to capitalise on Surry Hills’ ongoing gentrification and the anticipated economic boost from nearby developments. While specific price expectations haven’t been disclosed, industry insiders suggest comparable properties in the area are valued at no less than $20 million.
For Surry Hills residents and businesses, the sale of the Evening Star Hotel represents not just a change in ownership of a local landmark, but potentially a barometer for the neighbourhood’s rising property values and economic prospects.
Expressions of Interest for the Evening Star Hotel close on Wednesday, 8 May, marking a significant opportunity for investment in one of Sydney’s most vibrant and rapidly evolving suburbs.
Active retirees and semi-retirees in the Surry Hills area will soon have a new community organisation to make new friends, participate in trips and outings, listen to interesting guest speakers, enjoy a wide range of organised activities, have fun and enjoy exclusive discounts.
The new Surry Hills Probus Club’s initial meeting is scheduled for the East Sydney Community & Arts Centre (Lower Hall) at 34-40 Burton St, Darlinghurst. Mark your calendars for the 7th of May 2024, 10:00 a.m.
Probus is known for fostering fun and friendship in retirement, and the new Surry Hills chapter is no exception. Warm invitations to join the Club are extended to any retired or semi-retired individuals seeking to connect with peers, share interests, and enjoy the simplicity of good company.
To ensure a personalised welcome, the Club is hosting a complimentary morning tea—a perfect chance to mingle and share stories with future friends.
Prospective applicants who can’t attend the inaugural meeting are encouraged to fill in their details to allow the Club to keep them posted on future communications and events.
What is Probus?
Probus is proud to operate as a not-for-profit and non-fundraising organisation. With over 1,500 clubs across Australia, Probus remains committed to keeping retirees active in all walks of life—mentally, physically, and socially.
The club will offer various engaging activities: monthly meetings with intriguing guest speakers, interest groups, regular outings, day trips, and even holiday getaways.
To join the Surry Hills Probus Club, there’s a modest one-time fee of $30 to cover the name badge and administrative costs. A minimal annual fee of $60 supports club insurance, PSPL administrative support, and venue hire—sometimes including your morning tea.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Embrace the Probus spirit of lively social engagement and enrich your retirement with the new Surry Hills Probus Club.
Surry Hills is known for its innovative and pioneering spirit in a city renowned for its lively culture. As part of the Raising the Bar event, the suburb is set to host a series of thought-provoking talks.
On Tuesday, 1 April 2024, 10 local bars in Surry Hills, Camperdown and Chippendale will hold 20 discussions of groundbreaking ideas – from climate change and sustainable investing to the future of healthcare and emission-free aviation.
This event, supported by the City of Sydney and in partnership with the University of Sydney, is set to ignite conversations and inspire change.
A Global Initiative, Locally Tailored
Raising the Bar is a global movement to increase accessibility to education and innovation. By moving these important conversations from the traditional confines of lecture halls to the relaxed and inclusive atmosphere of bars, the initiative seeks to engage a broader audience.
The event promises a diverse array of topics. Highlights include “Unleashing purposeful investment for a better world” with Vis Vythilingam at Brix Distillers and “Migrapreneurs can unlock a better future for all” with Usman Iftikhar at Soultrap, both located in Surry Hills. These sessions will explore the frontiers of sustainable investing and the role of migrant entrepreneurs in our economy, respectively.
Photo Credit: David Shirley/Brix Distillers/Google Maps
Healthcare and technology merge in talks like “Can your health be programmed like an app?” by Pete Field at The Abercrombie in Chippendale, offering insights into personalized healthcare through technology. Similarly, “Harnessing brain waves to improve mental health” by Cameron Higgins at The Barrie in Chippendale delves into wearable neuro-tech’s potential to aid depression recovery.
From the future of electric flights discussed by Siobhan Lyndon and Andrew Moore at Wayward Brewing Co in Camperdown to Emma Bacon’s blueprint for cooler cities at Fortress Sydney in Chippendale, the event underscores the urgent need for innovation in addressing climate change. Moreover, “Ocean advocacy is for everyone” by Emily Rowland at Hermann’s Bar in Camperdown emphasizes the importance of community engagement in ocean conservation.
A Call to Action
Raising the Bar is more than an event; it’s a call to action to inspire change. With free tickets available to all, the organizers invite Sydney’s residents and visitors to partake in this unprecedented evening of insight, inspiration, and community spirit.
Whether you’re passionate about technology, the environment, or social change, Raising the Bar 2024 offers a unique opportunity to explore these topics in the congenial settings of Surry Hills and beyond.
Nestled within the vibrant Hollywood Quarter of Sydney, Foster Street boasts a dynamic mix of culinary, cultural, and entertainment options, encapsulating what makes a neighborhood genuinely cool, according to Time Out, who placed the area in the 23rd spot on its Top 30.
Foster Street’s Charms
Foster Street is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the real taste of Sydney. The street boasts a rich history and cultural significance, exemplified by the iconic Hotel Hollywood. Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of dining options, including the highly recommended Pellegrino 2000 and Nomad. You can embark on a culinary journey like no other on Foster Street.
Art enthusiasts can enjoy live music at the Great Southern Nights festival and visit China Heights Gallery, an artistic haven that contributes to the street’s eclectic atmosphere.
The Hollywood Quarter: A Cultural Beacon
Located in the vibrant Hollywood Quarter, Foster Street and Campbell Street have become synonymous with Sydney’s inner-city culture. This area is popular for attracting high-profile visitors, including celebrities like Taylor Swift.
It boasts an array of culinary delights, artistic endeavours, and sustainable initiatives. Pellegrino 2000, a favourite Italian restaurant among locals and stars alike, epitomizes the street’s culinary excellence with its inviting pasta dishes, which even the most privacy-conscious celebrities venture out to enjoy despite the paparazzi.
Photo Credit: Nomad/Facebook
Culinary and Artistic Haven
Foster Street is not just a place where celebrities can be spotted; it’s a hub of culinary innovation and artistic expression. The street offers a diverse range of food options, from Nomad’s heartwarming dishes served in an industrial-chic setting to Malibu’s hefty sandwiches, which cater to all tastes.
The Paramount Building is another area attraction. It houses the Paramount Coffee Project, AP Bakery, and the Golden Age Cinema and Bar, making it a cornerstone of cultural and social activity.
Photo Credit: Paramount Building/Facebook
Nightlife and Entertainment
The street’s vibrant nightlife is centred around the Hollywood Hotel, a historic Art Deco pub that has been a Sydney institution since Doris Goddard opened it in 1977. Adjacent to the Hollywood Hotel, Tio’s Cerveceria and The Rover offer diverse evening entertainment options.
Photo Credit: Hollywood Hotel/Facebook
The Great Southern Nights music festival further enhances the Hollywood Quarter’s reputation as a dynamic venue for live performances and highlights the area’s dedication to promoting a lively entertainment scene.
Artistic Flourishes
Art enthusiasts can explore the creative heart of Sydney at China Heights, a gallery located on Foster Street. This venue is dedicated to showcasing the works of emerging artists in the city and offers a glimpse into the area’s unique cultural landscape. The gallery’s warehouse-style space is an added attraction that enhances the overall experience.
Looking Ahead
The recognition Foster Street received from Time Out not only acknowledges its current appeal but also lays the foundation for its future evolution. As Sydney keeps growing and redefining its urban spaces, Foster Street’s recognition serves as a reminder of its neighbourhoods’ lasting charm and potential.
For both locals and visitors, Foster Street offers a unique experience that blends the historical with the contemporary, and the global with the local, making it a true embodiment of what it means to be cool in the eyes of the world.
Time Out’s selection process for the coolest streets involved input from editors and contributors worldwide, ensuring a diverse representation from every continent except Antarctica. The list, which includes entries from capital cities like Buenos Aires, Manila, and Tokyo, also highlights the cultural richness of second cities such as Sydney, Vancouver, and Rio de Janeiro. With London’s Gerrard Street and Lisbon’s Rua da Boavista also making the cut, the compilation offers a kaleidoscope of destinations that blend history, heritage, and modern vibrancy.
Did you know tht the man behind the bakery, which opened in February 2024, is “Fast Ed” Halmagyi, known for his stint on TV’s Better Homes and Gardens?
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Avner’s Bakery is more than just a place to eat—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. Despite being a recent addition to the area, it has already gained a loyal following.
Reviving Family Recipes: The Heartbeat of Avner’s Bakery
Avner’s is a restaurant that has a strong family legacy and a passion for culinary intrigue. Inspired by his grandmother’s treasured recipes, Ed has set out to revive old traditions in the lively neighbourhood of Surry Hills.
With the help of cryptic notes from an ancient notebook, Ed carefully unravels the secrets of Transylvanian rye bread and other cherished delicacies, infusing each dish with a tangible sense of history and nostalgia. Every creation at Avner’s is a testament to craftsmanship and homage, from the slow fermentation of bagel dough to the subtle infusion of pastrami with smoky undertones.
Photo Credit: Avner’s/Instagram
Artisanal Mastery: Crafting Culinary Perfection at Avner’s Bakery
Avner’s stands out in an era where mass production dominates by championing the ethos of artisanal excellence. The bakery rejects mechanised monotony and instead infuses each creation with a labour of love and attention to detail that goes beyond mere sustenance.
From the custom-built smoker, meticulously crafted from WWII relics to the daily ritual of hand-shaping bagels, the dedication to authenticity permeates every aspect of the bakery’s operations. Every slice of pastrami and every braided challah bears the mark of human touch, serving as proof of the enduring allure of traditional craftsmanship.
Must-Try Treats at Avner’s Bakery
Avner’s Bakery boasts a wide variety of baked goods, but a few items stand out as customer favourites.
One such item is the signature lox-loaded bagel, a delicious combination of smooth lox, creamy schmear, and perfectly toasted bagel that showcases the bakery’s culinary skills.
Photo Credit: Avner’s/Instagram
Other popular choices include the chocolate babkas, which feature rich chocolate swirled into flaky pastry layers, and the freshly baked challah bread, which is made every Friday to celebrate the start of shabbat.
Photo Credit: Avner’s/Instagram
For those looking to try something new, the ube and date babka is a unique fusion of flavors that combines the exotic taste of ube with sweet, caramelized dates. Additionally, Avner’s offers smaller treats like rugelach and babka bites, each of which is packed with flavour and nostalgia.
Whether you’re indulging in a classic dish or trying something new, every bite at Avner’s Bakery is sure to be a delicious experience that reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality.
Immersive Experience at Avner’s Bakery
With antique wood accents and an open layout, the bakery invites patrons to stay a while. The centrepiece of the space is an antique wood island bench, where the magic of bagel-making unfolds before your eyes, adding to the bakery’s allure.
Here, amidst the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and the gentle hum of conversation, customers find solace and connection. They forge bonds over shared meals and memories.
Avner’s founder, Halmagyi, has infused the concept of “tikkun olam,” a Jewish custom of benevolence, into the very fabric of the bakery. The bakery follows the age-old Turkish tradition of “askida ekmek,” which invites customers to purchase loaves and bagels for those in need.
Taylor Swift, the global pop sensation currently in Australia for her Eras Tour, made an unexpected appearance at Surry Hills’ popular Italian eatery, Pellegrino 2000, on Tuesday evening, February 20, 2024. The singer, accompanied by her tour’s support act Sabrina Carpenter, chose to dine among other patrons rather than booking out the entire venue.
Pellegrino 2000, which opened in 2022, has quickly become a local favourite, even claiming the top spot in the delicious. 100 list that same year. The restaurant is known for its exceptional Italian trattoria-style dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
According to reports, Swift and Carpenter enjoyed a meal consisting of focaccia, olives, pasta dishes, and sides, accompanied by wine. The bill for their dinner reportedly came to approximately $620. In a show of appreciation for the service, the pop star left a generous $300 tip for the staff.
The news of Swift’s presence spread rapidly, drawing local fans and press to the area. Eager Swifties gathered outside the restaurant, hoping to catch a glimpse of the record-breaking artist as she exited the venue later in the evening.
Pellegrino 2000 is one of several establishments run by the hospitality trio of Daniel Pepperell, Michael Clift, and Andy Tyson. The restaurant, located in the former Bar H space, has become a popular spot for Sydneysiders seeking quality wine, excellent food, and warm hospitality.
Daniel Pepperell, Michael Clift, and Andy Tyson with the Pellegrino 2000 team. Photo Credit: Instagram / @pellegrinos2000
Swift’s choice to dine at Pellegrino 2000 marks a departure from the typical celebrity haunts in Sydney, such as Mimi’s, Icebergs, and Jonah’s. Her visit to this comparatively casual and affordable venue is likely to significantly boost its popularity, potentially making reservations hard to secure in the near future.
This public appearance in Sydney comes after Swift managed to keep a low profile during her stay in Melbourne over the weekend. Her visit to Pellegrino 2000 has sparked speculation about where else the star might be spotted during her time in Australia.
