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A New Era: Opera Bar Sydney
Applejack Presents: Opera Bar
Applejack has officially taken over the iconic Sydney locations – Opera Bar and House Canteen.
Set against the glittering backdrop of Sydney Harbour and the sails of the Opera House, our food and drink menus bring classic dishes with global flavours to the table, showcasing some of Australia’s best produce.
A New Era
The Sydney Opera House announced a 10-year agreement with Applejack to run the popular harbourside dining venues Opera Bar and House Canteen, two of the country’s most picturesque and popular dining destinations. The appointment follows a highly competitive tender process.
Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer, Jade McKellar said: “We’re thrilled to have appointed Applejack Hospitality to run the Opera House’s popular harbourside venues, Opera Bar and House Canteen, for the next 10 years. We were delighted by the exceptional standard of the submissions received, with Applejack’s detailing a compelling, vibrant vision for this community space that thousands of locals and visitors enjoy every year. There’s nothing quite like the Opera House, and I’m looking forward to working with Applejack to make the most of this tremendous opportunity.”
The Opera House also thanked the existing operator, Solotel, Matt Moran and General Manager John Gallas, for their outstanding contribution over 24 memorable years.
“Solotel has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists over decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney’s hospitality scene. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered together over this long-standing partnership. We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy.”
Applejack Co-founders, Ben Carroll & Hamish Watts, said: “This is a dream come true for our entire team. To be entrusted as custodians of venues at the Sydney Opera House – the world’s most iconic cultural stage – is both humbling and inspiring. We can’t wait to share the exciting new concepts we’ve developed for both locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location. Our gratitude goes to Solotel for their excellent stewardship, and we’re looking forward to building on that foundation with genuine innovation and care.”
The appointment follows a comprehensive tender process that began in September 2024 in line with NSW Government procurement policy. The new contract commences from mid-September at Opera Bar, with House Canteen changing hands in mid-November. Solotel will continue to run both venues until that time. Applejack will take over ahead of the busy summer season, with refurbishments starting in 2026.
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In The Press...
Good Food
Celebrity chef Matt Moran and hospitality group Solotel’s joint 24-year reign at Opera Bar is over, with the Sydney Opera House announcing restaurant operator Applejack has won the tender to run the landmark harbourside venue.
The Urban List
After 24 years of defining one of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront venues, hospitality powerhouse Solotel are handing over the keys to Opera Bar. Now, the baton passes to Applejack Hospitality.
The Daily Telegraph
After nearly a quarter century under the same management, Sydney’s famous harbourside Opera Bar is set for its biggest shake-up yet.
Concrete Playground
A 24-year run is a stellar effort in anyone’s books. Still, the time has come for change at Opera Bar, as Applejack has taken over the restaurant from Matt Moran and his Solotel hospitality group.