A New Era for Sydney’s Opera Bar
Sydney’s iconic Opera Bar is set for a major transformation as it transitions to new management. The venue, known for its breathtaking views of the harbor and its status as one of the city’s most sought-after dining spots, has been handed over to Applejack, a rising player in the hospitality industry. This marks the end of a 24-year tenure by celebrity chef Matt Moran and Solotel, who have played a pivotal role in shaping the bar into a beloved destination.
Applejack, which launched in 2011, has built a reputation for its trendy and innovative approach to hospitality. The group now boasts a collection of popular venues, including Bopp & Tone, The Butler, and RAFI. Their recent success in securing the Opera Bar contract comes after a competitive tender process that saw them outperform established players in the industry.
Solotel, a well-known hospitality group with a portfolio that includes renowned venues like Aria, Chiswick, Barangaroo House, and the Golden Sheaf, was left empty-handed. This development signals the end of an era for the Opera Bar, which has been under Solotel’s stewardship for over two decades. During this time, the venue became a hub for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike.
The Opera Bar and its neighboring venue, House Canteen, are considered some of Sydney’s most prized hospitality assets. Located at the base of the Sydney Opera House, these venues offer stunning harbor views and have become a staple of the city’s dining scene.
Matt Moran, along with Solotel founder Bruce Solomon, played a significant role in transforming the Opera Bar into an iconic destination. Their vision focused on making the space approachable and fun, celebrating Sydney’s culture and its people. Despite the change in management, both Moran and Solomon expressed gratitude for their long association with the venue.
In a joint statement, they highlighted their commitment to creating a welcoming environment that reflects the spirit of Sydney. They also acknowledged the contributions of the previous team, including Opera Bar general manager John Gallas.
The Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer, Jade McKellar, praised the efforts of Solotel, Matt Moran, and John Gallas. She emphasized the importance of their work in delivering unforgettable experiences to locals and visitors alike. McKellar also expressed excitement about working with Applejack, highlighting their compelling vision for the venues.
Applejack co-founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts described winning the tender as a “dream come true.” They expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to bring new concepts to the venues while respecting the legacy of the location.
This transition comes after a period of uncertainty, including a legal battle in 2014 when the Opera Bar was last up for tender. The dispute involved accusations of unfair advantage, but the matter was eventually resolved through mediation.
Applejack’s contract for the Opera Bar will begin in mid-September, with the House Canteen following in mid-November. Plans for refurbishments are set to start in 2026, signaling a fresh chapter for these iconic venues. As the new management takes over, the focus will be on maintaining the high standards set by previous operators while introducing new ideas that reflect the evolving tastes of Sydney’s dining scene.
