Pioneering Australian chef Neil Perry swung open the heavy brass doors of Rockpool Bar and Grill back in 2009. Ever since then, the restaurant has been consistently heralded as one of Sydney’s – if not Australia’s – finest restaurants, winning as many accolades as Ms T Swift (well, perhaps nearly as many – 1989 was a hit). It’s an epic achievement, and a near-impossible undertaking when you consider the cut-throat and fickle world of hospitality, coupled with the Emerald City’s tumultuous history. And while Perry has since passed the reins to the competent hands of culinary director Corey Costelloe, Rockpool is showing no signs of slowing down. That’s the thing with the classics – they never go out of style.
The Sydney Opera House. Hugh Jackman. The Manly Ferry. Vegemite. Rockpool Bar and Grill.
What do all of these things have in common? They are so integral to the very fabric of Sydney that they’ve reached icon status.
And after being open for close to 15 years, Rockpool Bar and Grill is still at the top of its game, never resting on its accolades and reputation, rather striving for greatness each and every day. There’s only one word for it. Legendary.
It’s an epic achievement, and a near-impossible undertaking when you consider the cut-throat and fickle world of hospitality, coupled with the Emerald City’s tumultuous history. And while founding chef Neil Perry has since passed the reins to the competent hands of culinary director Corey Costelloe, Rockpool is showing no signs of slowing down. That’s the thing with the classics – they never go out of style.
It’s true there were many worthy contenders for Time Out’s Legend Award – a nod to Sydney’s robust and thriving hospitality scene. Nonetheless, Rockpool Bar and Grill was the clear winner in our books. A restaurant that showcases local, seasonal produce at its prime; a venue that displays exceptional cooking skills paired with best-in-class service; and one of Sydney’s most beautiful dining rooms.
Congratulations, Rockpool. Here’s to the next 15.