Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney to open in 2008

Following the success of their latest restaurant venture in Melbourne, Neil Perry, Trish Richards and David Doyle have announced that they will open Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney in mid 2008.

To be located in the landmark City Mutual Building at 66 Hunter Street, Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney will feature the classic elements that have made the Melbourne restaurant famous; a unique location, a sophisticated design with a capacity to seat over 200 diners, an extensive menu using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced from Australia’s best and most reputable suppliers, and the signature Rockpool service.

Neil, Trish and David have appointed design firm BatesSmart the creative forces behind Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne and the soon-to-be-completed renovation of Rockpool Sydney, to undertake the project.

While the new Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney will be based on its Melbourne predecessor, Neil says that will have a character all of its own, situated in a heritage listed Art Deco 1936 building, dominated by a grand central atrium space.

“Our fundamental philosophies will be carried through with an emphasis on the fine produce and the open display kitchen with its wood-fired grill. A new element, a casual ‘snack’ bar located in the kitchen back of house will be like no other in the city.

“Since Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne opened in October 2006, we have wanted to bring this concept to Sydney. The location at 66 Hunter Street is perfect for what we want to achieve, and it’s right in the heart of the business district and close to many of the city’s major hotels, as well as easily accessible from the surrounding suburbs,” he says.

While still finalising the major elements of the restaurant including the appointment of kitchen and management teams, they have started to formulate the menu that will feature dry aged Grass Fed Beef both 36 month and yearling, and the finest Blackmore Wagyu. The wine list will feature an impressive selection of over 1,500 wines from Australia and around the world.

“Like with Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne, the new Sydney restaurant will fuse the Rockpool ethos with a classic North American steakhouse. It will be completely different to Rockpool Sydney where our focus is on presenting a total fine dining experience,” says Neil.