Taylor Swift Dines at Pellegrino 2000, Leaves Generous Tip

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.

Photo Credit: Facebook / John Michael Damian


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.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @pellegrinos2000

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.



As Swift continues her Australian tour, local businesses and fans alike remain on high alert for potential sightings of the pop icon.

Published 22-February-2024

Locals Split on Surry Hills’ Taylor Swift Mural

A massive mural of pop superstar Taylor Swift has appeared in Surry Hills ahead of her upcoming Eras tour in Sydney, but the artwork is dividing opinions among locals.


Read: 3 Things You May Not Know About the Adam Goodes Mural in Surry Hills


The large-scale portrait by street artist Scott Marsh is located at Rivareno Gelato on Crown Street. It depicts Swift with her eyes cast downward and wearing a red wrap dress.

Swift can be seen wearing an ’87’ necklace, instead of her signature ’89, her birth year, sparking speculation it could reference her boyfriend Travis Kelce’s jersey number for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Photo credit: Gay Sydney Australia/Facebook 

Marsh is best known for his politically-charged murals, so some fans were surprised by his decision to paint Swift. 

“Seems a little off brand for you. I know you’ve done pop stars before but they’ve tended to be queer cultural icons who have great sentimental and cultural meaning and now… Taylor Swift!?” commented one of Marsh’s Instagram followers.

However, others defended the mural. “Look y’all, tay tay brings so many peeps joy! Even though I love scotties more political art I think it’s nice to have murals of peeps who bring joy. As they say, let people have fun!” wrote another user.

Photo credit: Taylor Swift/Instagram 

This isn’t the first time one of Marsh’s murals has sparked debate online. The Australian artist’s provocative works have made headlines around the world, including murals like Saint George, Tony Loves Tony, and Merry Crisis.

Meanwhile, Swift will perform at Accor Stadium on February 23-26 as part of her global Eras tour. She recently wrapped up a record-breaking run of shows in Melbourne, where she performed for the biggest crowds of her career. Over 290,000 fans flocked to see Swift at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Taylor swift
Photo credit: Taylor Swift/Instagram 

As Swiftmania sweeps through Australia, the Surry Hills mural is the latest flashpoint for her devoted fans and critics. Regardless of its mixed reception, it has created a new selfie hotspot for the singer’s local supporters ahead of her concerts at the Accor Stadium.


Read: Art Exhibit at Hotel Hollywood Offered a Glimpse Into the Life of Sydney Legend Doris Goddard


Published 19-February-2024