Rafi

With an array of culinary delights popping up all around northern Sydney, the area is well on its way to rivalling parts of the inner city. Now, joining the line-up this spring is new North Sydney venue, Rafi.

Behind the swanky new venue is Applejack Hospitality, who's also responsible for much-loved Sydney spots such as Bopp & Tone, The Butler, SoCal, and The Botanist. And now they're bringing us a 300-person drinking and dining behemoth—and one that's decked out with sunny terraces, a cocktail bar, a restaurant, a private dining room, a chef's table experience, and a central glasshouse structure called The Abor. Yes, it's big—and where you'll want to spend many summer arvos. 

Hailing all the way from Peru, Rafi's Executive Head Chef Matias Cilloniz has created a menu that draws from our fair city's coastal elements and can be summed up in two words: "fresh" and "seasonal". Australia’s world-class produce finds its home in vibrant combinations made from sustainably sourced seafood and greens cooked over charcoal.

Menu highlights include the glacier 51 toothfish with chickpea miso, fresh chickpeas and chilli; raw south coast tuna with cucumber, avocado and fresh yuzu; and dry-aged duck crowned with fresh plum and mustard leaves. Feeling adventurous? Better order the crispy potatoes with cultured cream, chives and sea urchin then (yes, really).

“Our food is meant to surprise and nourish with simple dishes creatively combined to be as tasty, nutritious, and sustainable as possible. Our team is focused on delivering an amazing experience, starting at sourcing our produce with care to pouring a glass of wine,” says Cilloniz. 

Speaking of drinks, Applejack Group Bars Manager Lachy Sturrock and Group Sommelier Amandine Rouviere are the brains behind the bar. So, expect plenty of artistic cocktails along with handpicked local tap beers and a carefully curated wine list, which again heavily champions Aussie drops. 

But, really, Rafi's main attraction is its atmosphere. Headed by leading design firm Luchetti Krelle, the overall design is playful, fun, and warm—think cheery colour palettes and eye-catching patterns.

The interior’s star is its large custom-made, geometric island bar, which is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that flood the room with natural light. Stone and marble flooring are accented by bar stools clothed in fabric by Walmajarri Aboriginal artist Jimmy Pike, who draws from the flora and fauna of his Australian desert life. Stunning. 

Outside on the terrace, the vibe is more Euro summer thanks to the bright striped fabric banquettes, custom tiled tables, colourful umbrellas, festoon lighting, lush greenery, and daydream-worthy lounges. For those seeking to bask in the sun come spring, settle down by the bright central glasshouse, The Arbor, or hide out in your own private outdoor gazebos decorated with lush greenery.

In the mood to treat yourself? Book a table here.

Image credit: Rafi