Serving Mont Blanc Bombe Alaskas In An 1880s Sandstone Space, This Sydney Restaurant Is A Must-Book

There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cosy corners nestled among the cobbled laneways of The Rocks. The tourist traps are easy to find. But to spot the real gems, the places that blend historic architecture with unique character, flair, and genuinely delicious food, you need to know where to look. 

Set within a historic sandstone building from 1881, Ananas Bar & Brasserie is one of these gems. Combining its distinct architectural heritage with a modern French brasserie aesthetic, Ananas offers elevated French dining in a relaxed atmosphere. 

It’s the kind of place you can take to impress your clients over long lunches by day and cosy up on a date by night. It’s also a good shout for when your parents are visiting, and you want to give off a low-key “look how well I’m coping with life” vibe. 

On one hand, Ananas has an undeniable air of luxury that’s perfect for special occasions, and the wait staff will add a touch of finesse that you don’t get in any old Sydney restaurant. On the other hand, it’s warm and grounded, with a menu designed to strike that specific balance between elevated and approachable.

Start with fresh Sydney Rock Oysters and spanner crab rillettes prepared and served tableside. In the mood for something a little richer? Try the hand-diced steak tartare or go full French with Escargots à la Bordelaise, snails in red wine with bone marrow butter. Or, for a comforting classic that will leave you feeling full and satisfied, opt for the Steak Frites, a 250g free-range barley-fed Wanderer scotch fillet au poivre with fries. Ooph, we’re already dribbling.

The desserts are just as indulgent. If you want something sweet with a bit of tableside theatrics, opt for the Baba d’Ananas, a rum-soaked savarin served with pineapple and crème fraîche chantilly. If you behave yourself, you’ll probably get an extra-generous pour of house-infused pineapple rum as it’s delivered to your table. 

Another fan favourite is the Mont Blanc façon Bombe Alaska, a nutty, sweet, and textured combination of chestnut, prune, armagnac, and torched meringue. The vegan menu also features the delicious Gâteau Pistache served with raspberry sorbet and olive oil. If you’re a pro at this fine dining malarkey, you’ll order all of these desserts and share (or not!). 

Like any self-respecting French brasserie, the Ananas drinks menu features an impressively extensive wine list. Choose from over 40 curated wines by the glass, as well as an assortment of seasonal cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, beers, cidres, and liqueurs. 

A traditional Ricard or Pernod served over ice makes an excellent aperitif. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, you can never go wrong with a glass of sommelier-recommended champagne or the Kir Royal, made with house Kir Liqueur and Veuve Clicquot ‘Yellow Label’ Champagne. 

All in all, Ananas Bar & Brasserie bridges the gap between theatrical indulgence and good old-fashioned comfort. So next time you’re looking for a spot to settle in for a birthday dinner, a special anniversary, or a Thursday arvo team lunch that justifies a few hours away from your desk… Ananas should be at the top of your list.

Keen to check out Ananas Bar & Brasserie for yourself? Book a table here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Ananas Bar & Brasserie and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why, read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: Ananas Bar & Brasserie | Supplied