North Sydney has added a new restaurant to its portfolio and it’s no ordinary, run-of-the-mill venue. Presented by Applejack Hospitality — the team behind Sydney heavyweights like SoCal, Forrester’s and The Butler, this new venture has now officially opened its doors. Dubbed Rafi, you can expect stunning interiors, a cocktail bar, alfresco dining spaces and a world-class menu to dive into.
Rafi, North Sydney
Executive Head Chef Matias Cilloniz leads the kitchen for this ambitious new project. Cilloniz hails from Peru and has previously spearheaded Four Seasons & Hilton Hotels across the USA and Australia.
Rafi is a massive space. We’re talking 300-seats, lots of open spaces to soak up the sun and breezy, roomy interiors. It’s already on top of our list of spots to soak up these balmy spring evenings.
As for menu offerings, guests can expect Sydney’s coastal vibes and fresh seasonal food galore. Highlights include raw south coast tuna, cucumber, avocado and fresh yuzu, delicious crispy potatoes and sea urchin. You can also get your hands on chickpeas and chilli, steamed beans and peas with cured egg yolk and schmaltz, dry aged duck crown with fresh plum and mustard leaves and more.
“Our food is meant to surprise and nourish with simple dishes creatively combined to be as tasty, nutritious, and sustainable as possible,” Cilloniz says.
And of course with Applejack at the helm, drink options will be plenty. There’s inventive cocktails, local beers on tap and a giant wine list.
Tying it all together is tastefully done decor with calming elements like hanging plants and festoon lighting in the central glasshouse structure The Arbor. It also comes with private outdoor gazebos if you’re after a cosy night out and coloured umbrellas for an Insta-worthy snap with the crew.
Rafi is now open. Snag a spot here and be one of the first to experience this new space.