Thanks to Sydney’s ridiculous good looks, the city boasts more waterfront restaurants than you can throw a shell at. But there are fewer with harbour views that also overlook Sydney’s most famous house (and without Quay’s price tag). Enter Luna Lu, a modern Asian restaurant situated along the sandstone Campbells Cove in The Rocks. In terms of quintessential Sydney views, this is as good as it gets.
The fitout of the 160-seat restaurant is stylish and sophisticated, featuring moody black marble tables, blue suede chairs, and hand-crafted ceramics. Diners can take a seat in the open-yet-covered space, allowing you to enjoy fresh air while sitting outside regardless of the weather conditions.
Executive chef Dario Nencioni brings solid experience, including co-owning a restaurant in Tuscany and working alongside star chef Alessandro Pavoni at Chiosco by Ormeggio. At Luna Lu, Nencioni and the team celebrate the traditions and flavours of Asia with a contemporary twist. Highlights on the menu include kataifi-wrapped tiger prawns with yuzu and avocado, sweet and spiced mayo, and fresh starfruit; dim sum made fresh daily (try the Hokkaido scallops and king prawn dumplings, and slow-cooked duck dumplings with Chinese five spice and hoisin sauce). Larger numbers include premium Wagyu rump cap wok-fried with black pepper sauce, asparagus, pickled kohlrabi, and Thai basil; and crisp barramundi with Thai chilli jam, ginger, and galangal sauce topped with fresh chilli and coriander.
The cocktail and wine menu has been curated to pair well with Asian flavours. You can also opt to try traditional Chinese yellow wine and Baijiu, a colourless Chinese liquor, if you’re after something stronger.
Plus, with cocktail masterclasses, whiskey tastings, dumpling making, traditional tea ceremonies, and weekend high tea experiences, there are plenty of reasons to visit Luna Lu sooner rather than later.
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