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Meet RUMA: Double Bay’s Must-Visit Restaurant for Food Lovers

RUMA offers a unique all-day dining experience that blends Modern Australian cuisine with bold Asian flavours in Double Bay.

With a cosy atmosphere, inventive dishes, and a carefully crafted drinks menu, RUMA delivers a dining experience that feels both exciting and familiar.

A Name That Feels Like Home

RUMA means “home” in Malay, and the restaurant truly lives up to its name. From the moment you step inside, the space feels warm and inviting, striking the perfect balance between casual comfort and modern elegance.

Chef Faheem Noor, the talent behind RUMA’s menu, draws inspiration from Sydney’s diverse food culture. He creates dishes that feel both comforting and exciting, using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to bring each plate to life.

RUMA’s interior combines earthy textures and native floral arrangements creating an intimate yet relaxed atmosphere. The design takes cues from traditional Malay homes but with a contemporary twist.

A Menu That Surprises and Delights

RUMA’s menu reflects Noor’s creative take on classic flavours, bringing together unexpected combinations and bold, fresh ingredients.

A Breakfast Spread with a Twist

RUMA turns morning staples into something special. The Kimchi and scallion hash browns offer a crispy, flavour-packed start to the day, while the Thai-style sausage McMuffin adds a fun, spicy kick.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Strawberry Sando is a light and airy treat. If you prefer savoury, the house favourite Australian scrambled eggs with Sambal Matah is for you.

Lunch and Dinner: Comfort Food, Elevated

RUMA’s menu encourages sharing and indulging, with small plates that highlight fresh, punchy flavours.

Start with:

-Infused Watermelon

-House Taramasalata and WA Octopus

-Korean Fried Chicken with Caviar

-Sydney Rock Oysters and Tuna Tartare

-Kingfish and Cooked Tiger Prawns

Move on to something more substantial:

-Lemon Ravioli with crispy chilli oil and kaffir limes

-Wagyu Striploin with Sarawak pepper jus and charred peppers

-Crumbed Lamb Cutlets with peas, baby cos, and mint sauce

-Grilled Salmon with stir fry warrigal greens

-Asian-style chermoula

And if you try only one dish, make it the King Prawns Egg Noodles with shellfish butter and scallions.

food menu

Cocktails That Hit the Spot

A great meal deserves a great drink, and RUMA’s cocktail menu delivers. Created by Alex Raclet and Alex Cameron (Table Manners Bronte), the drinks list focuses on fresh ingredients and layered flavours.

For something bright and tropical, try the ‘Ruma’, featuring vodka, passionfruit, ginger, orange blossom, orange juice and lime. If you love a margarita, the ‘Kumquat Margy’ featuring patron blanco that brings a citrusy twist with kumquat and calamansi. Whisky fans should go for the ‘Manuka Old Fashioned,’ a honey-infused rye whiskey with maple, indian tonic, and orange bitters. For wine lovers, you’ll love ‘Stone Fruit Bellini,’ a sparkling wine with a mix of mirabelle plum, mango, and allspice.

Drink menu

Why RUMA Stands Out in Double Bay

From early morning coffee to late-night cocktails, this is a place where food, drinks, and atmosphere come together effortlessly.

If you’re searching for a fresh new spot with exciting flavours, a welcoming vibe, and a menu worth coming back for, RUMA is it.

Visit RUMA

– 1/1 Kiaora Lane, Double Bay
– Open daily for breakfast & lunch (7am – 5pm)
– Dinner Wednesday to Sunday (5pm – 10pm)

book table

Published 17-Feb-2025

Manly’s Best Cycling Routes Are Now Closer Than Ever for Double Bay Riders

Love cycling but tired of the same routes? Double Bay riders now have a shortcut to Manly’s best bike trails, all thanks to a new 30-minute ferry ride. Unlock an entirely new world of cycling opportunities for those looking to swap urban streets for oceanfront trails and bushland adventures.

From Harbour Streets to Coastal Trails

Double Bay’s streets and parks offer a refined, scenic ride through boutique-lined avenues and waterfront paths, but for those craving a change of scenery, Manly provides a different kind of experience.

Upon stepping off the ferry at Manly Wharf, cyclists are immediately greeted with access to expansive coastal rides, including the popular Manly Lagoon to North Head loop. This route takes riders through a mix of open beaches, bushland trails, and panoramic lookouts, making it a must-ride for those wanting to experience Sydney’s rugged coastline firsthand.

For those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Manly to Shelly Beach path offers a smooth beachfront track, perfect for casual cyclists or families. This short yet stunning route allows riders to soak in the atmosphere before stopping at Shelly Beach for a swim or a quick coffee break at one of the area’s well-known cafés.

Must-Visit Destinations for Cyclists in Manly

Manly Beach: One of Sydney’s most famous ocean beaches, perfect for a post-ride swim or just enjoying the lively beachside atmosphere. Cyclists can park their bikes and relax by the shore after a long ride.
North Head Lookout: A breathtaking spot with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. The ride up to North Head includes scenic bushland trails and quiet roads, making it a rewarding climb for cycling enthusiasts.
Shelly Beach: A peaceful cove just a short ride from Manly Beach, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or enjoying a relaxed coffee break. The ride to Shelly Beach follows a smooth coastal track with beautiful ocean views.
Manly to Spit Bridge Ride: A longer scenic route that takes riders through coastal boardwalks, bushland paths, and harbourside tracks. This route is perfect for those looking to extend their cycling adventure beyond Manly’s main area.
Fairy Bower Pool: A historic ocean pool located along the ride to Shelly Beach. A great spot to take a quick dip and enjoy the stunning rock formations surrounding the pool.

North Head in Manly — North Head Lookout
Photo Credit: National Parks NSW

Cycling Meets Café Culture: Manly’s Best Refuel Spots

Cycling isn’t just about the ride—it’s also about the stops along the way. Manly is home to a thriving café and restaurant scene, making it the ideal destination for those who enjoy good food as much as good cycling.

The Boathouse Shelly Beach – Known for its fresh Australian-style breakfasts and unbeatable ocean views, this café is a must-visit for cyclists looking to refuel with high-quality food.
Bare Naked Bowls– A go-to for healthy smoothies and acai bowls, this café is popular among Manly’s active crowd and provides the perfect energy boost for riders.
4 Pines Brewing Co – After a long ride, cyclists can unwind at this local favourite for craft beer and hearty food. It’s a relaxed, welcoming spot with plenty of seating.
Rollers Bakehouse – Famous for its buttery croissants and artisan pastries, this is an excellent stop for cyclists looking to indulge in a well-earned treat.

4 Pines Brewing Co in Manly — *Photo Credit: 4 Pines Brew Pub/Google Maps*

Why This Changes the Game for Double Bay Cyclists

For Double Bay residents, Manly has always been a great weekend destination, but with the new ferry route, it has become more accessible than ever. Instead of dealing with the stress of loading a bike into a car or navigating Sydney’s busy roads, cyclists can now simply roll their bikes onto the ferry and enjoy a smooth ride across the harbour. Once in Manly, they can take advantage of expansive bike-friendly pathways, coastal boardwalks, and national park trails, offering a refreshing change from city riding.

Beyond the ride itself, the ferry trip adds to the overall experience. The journey across Sydney Harbour is a scenic adventure in itself, offering views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Sydney’s famous skyline, making it one of the most picturesque commutes a cyclist could ask for.

Exploring the Other Side: Why Manly Cyclists Should Visit Double Bay

While Double Bay cyclists are encouraged to explore Manly’s rugged coastline and bike-friendly paths, the journey can go both ways. Manly riders looking for a change of pace can take the same ferry service to Double Bay and experience its European-style café scene, peaceful harbour beaches, and hidden garden trails. Unlike Manly’s open ocean waves, Double Bay offers calmer waters and shaded parklands, making it a perfect post-ride retreat for those looking to relax after a long cycling session.

A Ride Worth Taking

With the Double Bay to Manly ferry now in service, Sydney’s cyclists have an exciting new way to experience two distinct cycling landscapes in a single day. Whether it’s for the long coastal loops, the café culture, or simply the thrill of a new route, this harbour-to-beach cycling adventure is one worth adding to the weekend itinerary.

BOOK A Ferry RIDE

Published 17-February-2025

Woollahra Library at Double Bay: A Modern Community Hub

Photo Credit: WoollahraMunicipalCouncil

Woollahra Library is a shining example of how libraries have evolved to meet the needs of today’s communities in Double Bay. Once in a historic harbourside mansion, it moved into a larger, purpose-built space above a shopping centre. The shift was made to accommodate the growing number of visitors and provide better facilities.

Woollahra Library is much more than a place to borrow books. It’s designed for learning, creativity, and connection. Visitors can access a huge range of resources, including:

Books
E-books
Audiobooks
Films
Journals
Digital databases

The library also runs many community programs, such as author talks, tech workshops, baby rhyme time, and storytelling sessions. Its flexible spaces for study, work, and social gatherings make it a popular venue for events and meetings.

Woollahra Library at Double Bay — *Photo Credit: WoollahraMunicipalCouncil*

Easy Access and Facilities

Getting to the library is simple. Visitors can park for one hour free in the Kiaora Place car park, with extra parking available nearby. Public transport is also convenient, with bus routes 323, 324, 325, and 326 stopping close by, and Edgecliff Station within easy reach.

The library is designed to be accessible to everyone. Facilities include:

Wheelchair access and accessible toilets
Baby change rooms and a welcoming space for breastfeeding
Lifts from New South Head Road and Kiaora Place arcade

Study and meeting spaces — *Photo Credit: WoollahraMunicipalCouncil*

For those needing a quiet space or a place to collaborate, the library offers:

Paid Spaces:

Event Space (up to 100 people)
Tech Room (up to 13 people)

Free Spaces:

Study Rooms (up to 8 people)
Quiet Pod (up to 2 people)

For bookings, a library membership is needed.

A Green and Welcoming Space

One of the library’s standout features is its use of greenery. A lush green wall at the entrance and cascading ivy help soften the modern design. Natural light, timber-slatted ceilings, and organic elements create a warm and inviting atmosphere. This focus on nature reflects the suburb’s commitment to sustainability.

iPad wall — *Photo Credit: WoollahraMunicipalCouncil*

The Junior section is especially fun for children, featuring:

An interactive iPad treehouse
A slide leading into a colourful reading cave
A storytelling space with floor projections

Children’s interactive learning space — *Photo Credit: WoollahraMunicipalCouncil*

Opening Hours and Contact Details

Woollahra Library at Double Bay is open every day:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Closed on public holidays

Woollahra Library is more than just a library in Double Bay. It has helped revitalise the suburb and strengthen the local community.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Australian 18 Footers League in Double Bay Celebrates 90 Years

Photo Credit: 18footers League

The Australian 18-footers League, based in Double Bay, is planning a weekend of festivities to celebrate its 90th anniversary.

The club, known for its exciting 18ft skiff races on Sydney Harbour, has a rich history of innovation, community engagement, and sporting excellence.

A History of Innovation and Community Spirit

The League was formed in 1935 by James J. Giltinan, who saw the potential for a new type of 18ft skiff racing. Giltinan’s entrepreneurial spirit led to early success, with large crowds drawn to the spectacle of the races. The club also strongly committed to the community, raising significant funds for the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children through its ‘Queen of the Waves’ competition.

In the late 1950s, the League secured its current clubhouse in Double Bay thanks to the generosity of skipper Alf Beashel. The 1970s marked a ‘Golden Era’ for the sport, with advancements in design and construction pushing the boundaries of speed and performance.

From Sydney Harbour to the World Stage

The Australian 18-footers League has consistently pushed the boundaries of the sport. In 1985, it staged a unique ocean-going race, ‘The Ocean Challenge,’ which saw skiffs racing from Palm Beach down the coast and into Sydney Harbour. More recently, the League has embraced technology, livestreaming its races with commentary to a global audience.

Over the years, the League has also played a key role in expanding the sport internationally. The Giltinan World Championship, held in 1938, now attracts competitors from over 20 countries.

Anniversary Celebrations

To mark its 90th anniversary, the League is hosting a weekend of events on February 1st and 2nd. Saturday will feature the ‘Skiff Sydney Harbour Marathon,’ with all skiff classes invited to compete.

Sunday will see the traditional ‘Queen of the Harbour’ race, in which current fleet skippers compete for a special anniversary trophy. The club also invites all past Club Championship-winning skippers to join the celebrations.

Published Date 29-Jan-2025

Sydney’s Newest Adventure: Double Bay to Manly in 30 Minutes

Double Bay residents now have a direct ferry to Manly, offering a faster and more scenic way to reach Sydney’s Northern Beaches. The new Bay2Beach Express service provides a 30-minute connection, making it easier for locals and visitors to explore both destinations without the hassle of traffic or parking.

A Journey That Redefines Convenience

Introduced in November 2024, the Bay2Beach Express from Fantasea Cruising, which is part of the NRMA group, offers an opportunity to discover the lively harbour attractions of Sydney. Connecting Double Bay, Watsons Bay, and Manly, this service offers a fast and scenic alternative to driving.

In just 30 minutes, you can hop from Double Bay’s glamourous streets to Manly’s relaxed beachfront vibe. With fares capped at just $9.50, the journey is both affordable and hassle-free.

“We wanted to bridge two of Sydney’s most loved areas while providing a way for locals and tourists to avoid the parking struggles,” an NRMA spokesperson explained.

Why Take the Bay2Beach Express?

Beyond convenience, the Bay2Beach Express lets passengers enjoy Sydney Harbour’s natural beauty without the stress of traffic or parking. The ferry route itself is an experience, with stunning views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and iconic waterfront landscapes.

For those who love outdoor activities, this service offers a gateway to some of Sydney’s best experiences. Whether it’s Double Bay’s tranquil harbour beaches or Manly’s famous surf breaks, the ferry seamlessly connects two distinct lifestyles.

Bay2Beach Express Routes

1. Double Bay: Elegance by the Water

Starting your adventure in Double Bay sets the tone for luxury and leisure. This Eastern Suburbs gem is famous for its high-end boutiques, trendy bars, and fine dining. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon at Bobbie’s Bar with its retro-inspired interiors or an indulgent Mediterranean feast at Gitano, Double Bay is where sophistication meets relaxation.

Unlike Manly, Double Bay is more residential and exclusive, attracting locals rather than large crowds of tourists. The harbor beaches here, such as Redleaf Beach, offer calm waters perfect for a peaceful swim, though they lack the surf breaks found in Manly. If you prefer high-end dining, boutique shopping, and a more refined atmosphere, Double Bay is the perfect place to begin your journey.

2. Watsons Bay: A Seaside Haven

A short 15-minute cruise from either Double Bay or Manly brings you to Watsons Bay, a spot where nature and history collide. From the towering cliffs of the Gap Bluff to the tranquil beachside restaurants, there’s no shortage of charm here. This stop is ideal for families, couples, or anyone craving a serene escape.

3. Manly: Beachfront Bliss

End your day in Manly, the Northern Beaches suburb known for its surf culture, vibrant eateries, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re catching a wave or simply enjoying a stroll along the Corso, this destination captures the quintessential Sydney lifestyle.

Unlike Double Bay, Manly attracts more tourists and backpackers, thanks to its relaxed, beachside charm. The suburb is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a more active lifestyle with:

Surfing at Manly Beach and Freshwater Beach
Scuba diving and snorkeling at Shelly Beach and Fairy Bower
Coastal walks, including the famous Manly to Spit Bridge walk and North Head lookouts
Cycling routes, such as Manly Lagoon to North Head

For nature lovers, Manly’s proximity to Sydney Harbour National Park also means access to incredible hiking trails, lookouts, and wildlife spotting. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy adventure and the great outdoors.

Dining in Manly is also more casual and beach-friendly, with relaxed cafes, fish and chips spots, and craft breweries like The Boathouse, Manly Wharf Bar, and 4 Pines Brewing. In contrast, Double Bay is home to more high-end restaurants and European-style cafes, such as Matteo and 18 Footers.

For nightlife, Manly offers a fun and laid-back pub scene, with places like The Steyne and Wharf Bar being popular social spots. Double Bay, on the other hand, has a more boutique and upscale nightlife scene, perfect for those looking for a more exclusive evening out.

More Than Just a Ride

For Fantasea Cruising, the Bay2Beach Express is about more than convenience. It’s about creating a unique way to experience Sydney Harbour. While awareness of the service is still growing, early riders are already singing its praises.

“Sydney-siders often struggle to think of recommendations when they have friends or family visiting from interstate or abroad however, no visit to Sydney can be complete without exploring Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and Fantasea Cruising is the ultimate way to do so,” NRMA Chief Operating Officer Marine Nigel Ellsmore said.

Whether you’re in the mood for Double Bay’s sophistication or Manly’s adventure-driven lifestyle, this ferry is the perfect way to explore both worlds.

“Another positive for Northern Beaches locals and tourists alike is that by taking the Bay2Beach Express they can avoid the headache that finding parking can be in the East and enjoy a tipple responsibly,” Mr Ellsmore added.

BOOK A RIDE

With its combination of stunning harbour views, convenient travel time, and access to Sydney’s most iconic coastal spots, the Bay2Beach Express is set to become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re after an adventure-packed day in Manly or a relaxing afternoon in Double Bay, this ferry makes the journey just as exciting as the destination.

Published 28-January-2025

Security Upgrade Planned After Double Bay Cafe Incident

A popular cafe in the heart of Double Bay is considering a significant security upgrade following a disturbing incident where a man allegedly terrorised staff and a garbage truck driver.

The early Wednesday morning incident on Knox Lane has shaken the typically peaceful neighbourhood.

Around 5:30 a.m., police were called to the scene following reports of a man causing a public disturbance. It is alleged the 26-year-old man chased a garbage truck driver into the cafe before harassing staff members who were preparing to open for the day.

Police located the man unconscious at the back of the cafe, where he was allegedly found with a small quantity of drugs. He was treated by paramedics at the scene before being transported to St Vincent’s Hospital for assessment under police guard.

Following his release from hospital, the man was taken to Waverley Police Station and charged with a string of offences, including entering a vehicle without consent, drug possession, stalking and intimidation. It is alleged the man had earlier broken into a barista’s car parked nearby.

A cafe employee who has lived in Double Bay for ten years expressed shock at the incident, describing it as “highly unusual” for the area. In response to the ordeal, cafe management is considering installing security cameras and a panic button to enhance safety for staff and patrons.

Video footage shows the man walking down Knox Lane past the garbage truck and towards the cafe. Further footage depicts paramedics treating the man on the street, surrounded by police officers.

The man was refused bail and will appear in Waverley Local Court on Thursday.

Published Date 21-Jan-2025

Double Bay Style Maven Maree Conley Lists Bellevue Hill Sanctuary for $11.5M

Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby's International Realty/YouTube

Maree Conley, founder of Conley + Co in Double Bay, has listed her meticulously redesigned Bellevue Hill apartment with an $11.5 million price guide, following years of luxurious renovations.

Ms Conley, a well-known figure in the Double Bay homewares scene, purchased the Bellevue Hill apartment at 2/34 Drumalbyn Rd for $1.95 million in 2014.

Double Bay luxury property — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Over the past decade, she has transformed the residence into a high-end sanctuary featuring bespoke interiors and luxury finishes. Ms Conley is now looking for her next creative challenge, having recently acquired an $8.4 million property nearby, reportedly for her daughter.

Property Features

The four-bedroom apartment boasts high ceilings, curved Crittal windows, and expansive north-facing views towards Manly from every seat in the room.

Luxury property listed in Double Bay by Maree Conley — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Design elements include Versailles parquetry flooring and a 19th-century French Carrara marble mantelpiece, adding Parisian sophistication to the space.

The bedrooms and bathrooms exhibit meticulous artistry, enhancing the overall luxurious atmosphere. The apartment is situated within a boutique block of five whole-floor residences, providing exclusivity and privacy. The interiors feature super high-end finishes, with every detail carefully curated to create a seamless blend of elegance and comfort.

Double Bay apartment with high-end interiors and views — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Exclusive Bellevue Hill residence — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Market Response and Trends

Listed with agents Richard Faludi of Raine and Horne Double Bay and Clint Ballard of Sotheby’s, the property has attracted significant interest since it was placed on the market just before Christmas.

Mr Faludi noted a strategic advantage in listing ahead of the traditional post-Australia Day rush, positioning the property uniquely in a competitive market.

Parisian-inspired home in Double Bay — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Conley’s Double Bay home — *Photo Credit: Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty/YouTube*

Future Prospects

Market experts anticipate a strong 2025, with potential interest rate cuts driving buyer sentiment.

Despite current market conditions, Ms Conley’s track record and the apartment’s exceptional features are expected to command strong offers.

As Ms Conley moves on to her next venture, her Bellevue Hill apartment stands as a testament to her signature design style, offering prospective buyers a rare and luxurious opportunity in one of Sydney’s most sought-after suburbs.

Published 22-Jan-2025

Victoria Todorov’s ‘Uppers’ Exhibition Arrives at Woollahra Gallery in Double Bay

Photo Credit: Victoria Todorov/Instagram

Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf in Double Bay will host “Uppers,” a free contemporary art exhibition by Victoria Todorov, featuring hyperreal oil paintings and sculptures that explore themes of beauty, consumerism, and economic systems.

Jocelyn by Victoria Todorov — Photo Caption: The painting is titled “*Jocelyn” (2024) by Victoria Todorov*.
*Photo Credit: Victoria Todorov/Instagram*

Double Bay is known as a cultural hub within Sydney, attracting contemporary artists and exhibitions that challenge societal norms.

Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf has previously showcased thought-provoking works that examine identity, technology, and modern consumer habits. “Uppers” continues this tradition, offering a visually striking critique of performative beauty standards and productivity culture.

Exploring ‘Uppers’: Key Themes and Artistic Approach

Curated by Sarah Hibbs, “Uppers” presents hyperreal oil paintings and sculptures that explore pro-plastic aesthetics and self-optimization pressures.

Ms Todorov’s style features bold palettes and intricate textures that critique class and labour systems. The exhibition launches on Friday, 14 February, alongside works by Hal Witney and Ariel Ruby.

Untitled (Cicciolina), 2024 — *Photo Caption: Untitled (Cicciolina) 2024 by Victoria Todorov*.
*Photo Credit: Victoria Todorov/Instagram*

Ms Todorov, a Melbourne-based interdisciplinary artist, works across installation, video, sculpture, and painting. Her practice draws from online communities and their intersection with the art world, examining technology, identity, and culture. Her visually bold works reflect modern image saturation and explore the blurred boundaries between humans and technology with a touch of humour.

Alternatives and Comparisons

In contrast to traditional exhibitions focusing on aesthetics alone, “Uppers” offers a multi-layered exploration of socio-economic realities.

Other recent exhibitions in Double Bay, such as those at nearby 99% Gallery and Discordia Gallery, have touched on similar themes but with a more conventional approach to artistic representation.

*Photo Caption: Untitled (Marriage) 2024 by Victoria Todorov*.
*Photo Credit: Victoria Todorov/Instagram*

Conclusion and Future Implications

The exhibition will run until 9 March, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public to explore Ms Todorov’s thought-provoking work.

Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf aims to continue its commitment to hosting exhibitions that challenge perceptions and foster cultural discourse in Double Bay.

Published 22-Jan-2025

$1-Billion Redevelopment Set to Transform Double Bay Waterfront

Photo Credit: 33 Cross St

Did you know that the landmark InterContinental Hotel in Double Bay may be demolished to give way to a proposed $1-billion lifestyle precinct, a major transformation for the waterfront suburb?

A New Vision for Double Bay

The project, located at 33 Cross Street, has been submitted for approval (DA 489/2024), with construction anticipated to begin by 2026. Designed by COX Architecture, the redevelopment will include high-end retail, dining, a 40-room boutique hotel, office suites, wellness facilities, and 29 luxury apartments priced at around $30 million each.

Developers Allen Linz, Eduard Litver, and Mervyn Basserabie acquired the site for $215 million earlier this year. They aim to revitalise the area with a mixed-use precinct that balances public accessibility with luxury living. Nearly half the site will be dedicated to community spaces, including green areas, cinemas, and a pedestrian walkway connecting the precinct to Double Bay Beach.

33 Cross St Double Bay — *Photo Credit: 33 Cross Street*

Community-Centred Design

The redevelopment prioritises community integration, with developers emphasising a more inclusive street-level experience. Features such as a landscaped atrium, public art installations, and pedestrian-friendly pathways are central to the design. The proposal also incorporates facilities catering to Double Bay’s ageing demographic, including medical services, saunas, and gyms.

The new precinct will retain elements of the site’s history, though the 140-room InterContinental Hotel—once a destination for celebrities like Princess Diana and David Bowie—will largely be replaced. Developers plan to manage the non-residential spaces directly, ensuring high-quality retail and hospitality services.

Luxury Apartments in a Booming Market

The apartments, spanning around 300 square metres each, will occupy the top seven levels of the precinct, offering views of Sydney Harbour. These residences, marketed on an invitation-only basis, have already garnered significant interest. The redevelopment aligns with a broader trend of rising property values in Double Bay, where luxury developments have seen apartment prices grow by 16.6 per cent over the past year.

Developers believe the new precinct will cement Double Bay’s status as a global lifestyle destination, drawing comparisons to exclusive developments in cities like London and New York. The project will complement existing high-profile establishments in the area, such as Neil Perry’s restaurant Margaret and Top Spring’s luxury apartment complexes.

A Landmark for the Future

Mr Litver described the project as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine how people experience Double Bay. He noted that the site’s unique location, surrounded by parklands and harbour views, made it an ideal place to create a world-class precinct. Similarly, Mr Linz emphasised the importance of enhancing community connections while preserving the area’s charm.

If approved, the redevelopment is expected to reshape Double Bay into a vibrant hub blending luxury living with public amenities, ensuring long-term benefits for the community.

Published 22-January-2025

Song Bird Takes Flight in Double Bay

Photo Credit: Song Bird Double Bay/Instagram

Song Bird, a modern Chinese restaurant, has landed in the heart of Double Bay. Helmed by acclaimed chef Neil Perry, the restaurant occupies the heritage-listed Gaden House on Bay Street.

With its blend of Cantonese-inspired flavours and fresh Australian ingredients, Song Bird is a vibrant addition to Sydney’s dining scene.

Dumplings served at Song Bird Double Bay. — *Photo Credit: Song Bird Double Bay/Instagram*

A Harmony of Heritage and Style

Housed in Gaden House, a 1960s architectural icon, Song Bird pairs mid-century charm with modern elegance. Inside, soft lighting and warm orange lanterns create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Crisp white tablecloths and polished timber chairs add sophistication, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and showcase views of the surrounding streetscape. A glass-enclosed wine display offers a touch of luxury.

The venue strengthens Mr Perry’s growing influence in Double Bay, complementing his other popular restaurants, Margaret and Next Door.

Warm orange lanterns at Song Bird restaurant. — *Photo Credit: Song Bird Double Bay/Instagram*

A Menu Designed to Delight

Song Bird’s menu highlights the best of Cantonese cooking, enriched by premium Australian produce. Signature dishes include:

Seafood served at Song Bird Double Bay. — *Photo Credit: Song Bird Double Bay/Instagram*

Dumplings: Pork and Prawn Siu Mai ($24 for 4).
Roasts: Peking Duck with Mandarin pancakes and condiments ($64 for half, $120 for whole).
Seafood: Live lobster ($239) and mud crab ($159) prepared in XO sauce or with ginger and shallots.
Meats: Red-braised pork belly ($49), Mongolian beef fillet ($49), and stir-fried chicken with black bean sauce ($45).
Vegetables: Steamed choy sum with garlic sauce ($25) and stir-fried water spinach with garlic ($24).

À la Carte Menu

The à la carte menu showcases a variety of Cantonese-inspired dishes, each crafted with care. From the delicate Spencer Gulf King Prawn Har Gow to the bold Mongolian beef fillet, every dish is a tribute to flavour and quality.

VIEW MENU

Dessert Menu

Song Bird’s dessert offerings provide the perfect finish. With creative twists on classic Asian-inspired sweets, the menu reflects Mr Perry’s signature balance of indulgence and refinement.

VIEW MENU

Banquet Menu

Ideal for group dining, the banquet menu offers a curated selection of the restaurant’s standout dishes. Designed for sharing, it captures the essence of Cantonese cuisine, from savoury dumplings to succulent roasts and fresh seafood.

VIEW MENU

Chinese New Year Banquet Menu

To celebrate Chinese New Year, Song Bird presents an exclusive eight-course banquet for $148 per person. Symbolic dishes like Peking Duck, live coral trout with ginger and shallots, and indulgent desserts mark the occasion. Available from 27 January to 9 February, it’s a feast that honours tradition and flavour.

VIEW MENU

*Photo Credit: Song Bird Double Bay/Instagram*

Operating Hours

Song Bird operates seamlessly throughout the week:

Monday to Thursday: 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 12:00 p.m.– 11:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Neil Perry: A Culinary Visionary

Mr Perry’s extensive experience in fine dining shines through at Song Bird. His meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the menu to the restaurant’s design and atmosphere. Adjacent to Song Bird is Bobbie’s, a basement cocktail bar specialising in martinis and light snacks—perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed nightcap.

The iconic, chef Neil Perry — *Photo Credit: Neil Perry/Instagram*

Revitalising Double Bay

Since opening Margaret in 2021, Mr Perry has been a driving force behind the revival of Double Bay. Song Bird adds new energy to the area, attracting locals and visitors alike. While the revitalisation has been widely welcomed, some residents have expressed concerns about increased traffic and commercialisation.

Looking Ahead

With its innovative menu and elegant setting, Song Bird is poised to become a staple of the dining scene in Double Bay. Reservations are now open, with details available on the restaurant’s official website. Mr Perry’s commitment to excellence continues to shape Sydney’s culinary landscape.

BOOK A TABLE

Published 14-Jan-2025