6 minute read
FOOD & BEVERAGE: PRIVATE DINING
The art of private dining
There are many components that go into making a dining event special and memorable, and sometimes, it’s all in the details. Recently, Spice teamed up with a savvy and discerning group of EAs and event professionals to uncover and taste test some of Sydney’s best private dining venues (hard work, but someone’s gotta do it). From nine different palates and perspectives, here are our top picks.
The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar
Nestled on the corner of King and York Streets, this elegant venue is as welcoming as it is beautiful. From the opulent gold mid-century inspired chandeliers to the roving dessert trolley, there’s a touch of European charm at every turn. The private dining room is located on the mezzanine and seats 12. Partitioned by a thick curtain, it can be combined with the mezzanine area, which seats 30, offering flexibility for larger events.
Unique feature: “While the space is private, it overlooks the restaurant downstairs allowing the ambience to flow through into the space,” – Cate, EA and Women in Hospitality board member.
The verdict: “The guest experience matched the ambience, food and great wine list – I have been back to The Charles for three private events since!” – Michelle, business strategist and CEO.
Hot tip: “Head next door to sultry underground speakeasy Tiva Lounge for a post-dinner night cap and live jazz,” – Lana, Spice editor.
thecharles.sydney
The Rotunda at InterContinental Sydney
Following an extensive $120 million renovation, InterContinental Sydney has introduced a luxe new private dining space for up to 16 guests. Named The Rotunda for its circular shape, this intimate space is swathed in deep green velvet with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the historic sandstone streetscape. The centrepiece, however, is the spectacular round green marble table with the world's largest Lazy Susan sitting proudly on top (genius!).
Best for: "The high-end private dining experience us perfect for special occasion Board dinners and when you want to impress important clients or international guests," - Catherine, EA
The verdict: "The hotel's refurb has brought it to a sky-high level and this type of private dining space is a rare find in Sydney," - Beccecene, senior EA.
Top tip: "Host your pre-dinner drinks to breathtaking views at rooftop bar, Aster - it's an unbeatable way to kick off your dinner event!" - Emma, managing director and venue expert.
sydney.intercontinental.com
Ploós
Situated within the heritage listed waterfront warehouses of Campbell’s Cove, Ploós has made a big splash on Sydney’s dining scene since opening a little over a year ago. Renowned chef and restauranteur Peter Conistis marries his unique take on South Aegean and modern Greek cuisine with high-quality local ingredients, resulting in a menu that is fresh, vibrant and innovative. There are two private dining rooms on the first floor, each offering 140 square metres of space for up to 80 guests seated.
Best for: “The rooms are spacious and flexible, making them perfect for hosting larger events, whether it be a sitdown banquet or cocktail-and-canapé function,” – Sam.
What we love: “The historic sandstone walls and original characteristics of the building are perfectly complimented by the stunning harbour views, making for a stunning event space with loads of character,” – Lana.
Top tip: There are also two semi-private spaces on the ground floor – the Chef’s Semi-Private Dining Room where you can watch the talented chefs at work, and the SemiPrivate Bar which can seat up to 30.
www.ploos.com.au
INDU
Nestled beneath Angel Place, INDU celebrates the vibrant flavours of Sri Lanka and South India, and its new autumn menu from head chef Erry Salimann packs a punch.
With crowd pleasers such as Aloo Masala Potato Dosa with chana dhal and Colombo King Prawns with ghee, Ceylon olive, and mango pickle, it’s a good thing they’re made to share because you’ll want to try them all! There are two semi-private dining alcoves (six to 14 pax), which have been carved out of the heritage-listed building the restaurant resides in, giving them plenty of character.
Best for: “INDU has a really fun vibe which makes it great for when you’re after something a bit more relaxed and laid back, like a mid-week team dinner,” – Amanda, EA.
Top tip: “The INDU Feast is the way to go for groups –it allows you to enjoy every section of the menu and experience a range of delicious dishes,” – Emma.
indudining.com.au
The Gantry at Pier One
With its enviable waterside location on the Pier One heritage wharf, The Gantry has been a firm favourite with the corporate events crowd for quite some time. This chic restaurant has a semi-private dining space for 12 guests which has stylish wrap-around curtains and is enclosed by the floor-toceiling glass wine fridge, providing an intimate and private space. The soft lighting adds a touch of romance and intrigue to the intimate cellar ambience.
What we love: “The stunning setting coupled with the warm ambience makes it easy for guests to relax and connect over great food and wine,” – Megan, event planner.
Top tip: “If you’re looking for a fully private space, there’s a separate dining room for 10 at the hotel which can be catered for by The Gantry or by Pier One’s events menus,” – Hannah, event planner.
www.thegantry.com.au
Luna Lu
Affording views of Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, this swanky waterfront restaurant in Campbell’s Cove provides the perfect setting for a business lunch or dinner.
The upstairs space, Bar Lulu, features two uniquely charming private dining rooms, seating up to 10 and 12 guests respectively, with an adjoining cocktail bar and lounge that can be hired out for private functions.
What we loved: “The food here is simply exquisite. Head chef Pier Davide Mair’s newly launched menu is centred around seasonal ingredients and inspired by flavours from Asia and beyond, resulting in a highly sensory dining experience,” – Lana.
Top tip: “Take it up a notch and delight your group with a bespoke four-course degustation inside the clear round Dining Dome overlooking the harbour,” – Sam, event planner.
lunalu.com.au
