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Aussie chef Matt Stone, best known for his work at You Beauty in Bangalow (croc toast, anyone?) and Oakridge Estate in the Yarra Valley, is taking the helm of Taronga Zoo’s harbourfront restaurant, Me-Gal, in Mosman this summer.
The restaurant will relaunch as Me-Gal by Matt Stone on Tuesday, December 15, with a produce-led menu celebrating seasonal native Australian ingredients, local producers and sustainable cooking.
“My goal is to serve yummy food. Simple food based around beautiful produce,” says Matt.
Dishes on the menu include tuna crudo with desert lime and potato terrine; Jersey milk cheese curds with sunrise lime and globe artichoke; peppered lamb scotch fillet with spring vegetables; and lemon and green ant tart with cultured cream (it’s delicious).
The drinks list will also reflect the restaurant’s focus on sustainability and considered winemaking. Half of the list will feature female winemakers (how good!), alongside biodynamic, organic and carbon-neutral producers. It will also include First Nations-owned wine businesses such as Mt Yengo, Munda Wines and Bidja Wines, as well as selections from Matt’s own label, Wines by Matt Stone.
"There aren't many places in Sydney where you can sit surrounded by nature and look straight across to the Opera House," says Matt. "We wanted the food to be worthy of that view, without getting in its way. Good food should feel generous, not intimidating. Come for a long lunch, stay for the afternoon."
"I cook produce-first. Find the best Australian ingredients, respect the people who grow them, and let them do the talking," adds Matt.
Located beside the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Me-Gal by Matt Stone shares the zoo’s commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Paul Romanella, executive general manager of retail and events at Trippas White Group, says, “Matt Stone is one of Australia’s most exciting culinary talents, bringing a distinctive approach to Australian cuisine and a genuine commitment to sustainability. Partnering with Matt marks an exciting new chapter for Me-Gal, with a simple ambition: to create one of Sydney’s great dining destinations, set against one of the world’s most spectacular backdrops.”
Nick Boyle, executive director of Taronga Zoo, says, “At Taronga, conservation and sustainability are at our core. From protecting wildlife and wild places to inspiring people to make more sustainable choices in their everyday lives.”
"Matt's philosophy is closely aligned with these values. His commitment to ethical sourcing, reducing food waste, celebrating local producers and creating menus that tread lightly on the environment reflects the approach we strive to take across our organisation.
"We're delighted to welcome Matt to Me-Gal, where his innovative approach to food will help create a dining experience that not only showcases exceptional Australian produce but also encourages a deeper connection with nature and the importance of protecting it," says Nick.
Me-Gal by Matt Stone opens on Tuesday, December 15, 2026.
Make a booking here.
Address: 2A Bradleys Head Road, Mosman NSW 2088
Note, I was kindly hosted by Me-Gal by Matt Stone, but our editorial recommendations are always honest. Find out more, here.
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