Sinaloa: The Latest Mexican Restaurant in Double Bay

Would you like to try your hand at do-it-yourself tacos? Sinaloa, the newest addition to the restaurant in Double Bay is serving up some authentic Mexican cuisine with share plates and some DIY action for people who want to personally assemble their own tacos.



Opened in early March 2021, Sinaloa is managed by a full Mexican team. The head chef, Axell Torres Villa, is a veteran in the culinary industry and has worked in numerous high-end restaurants all around the globe, such as MeroToro in Mexico and Noma Kitchen in Denmark. 

With the team’s expertise, Sinaloa offers its customers authentic Mexican share plates such as Wagyu Birria or Market Fish Al Ajillo, as well as the opportunity to assemble their own tacos. Starters and sides are also available such as Guacamole and their Stone Baked Quesadillas.

Photo credit: Instagram/Sinaloa Sydney

Sinaloa consists of four unique spaces designed for birthdays, corporate lunches, and group gatherings: the Hacienda, the Cahita Bar, the lounge area, and the restaurant proper. 

The Hacienda, an open-air courtyard that features a large selection of Mexican liquor and cocktails, serves as the bar area which occasionally features music from local DJs. Also available for booking is the lounge area which comes with a DJ booth and access to their private courtyard. 

The Hacienda at Sinaloa
Photo credit: Instagram/Sinaloa Sydney

On the other hand, the Cahita Bar offers a more corporate appeal, available for events, celebrations, and meetings. Last but not least is the Sinaloa restaurant proper, which offers chef Axell’s carefully curated modern Mexican menu.

The Cahita Bar at Sinaloa
Photo credit: Instagram/Sinaloa Sydney

Every weekend, Sinaloa hosts Bottomless Brunch: a set brunch menu with unlimited drinks available for four people or more. On Fridays, the Hacienda courtyard and lounge area will offer disco and house music from DJs, as well as cocktails and the restaurant’s food menu.

Sinaloa can be found at 37 Bay St, Double Bay, open from Wednesday to Sunday from noon till late. For more information, visit their website. Follow their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on meals, deals, and other special announcements. 

Famous Chef Neil Perry to Open New Restaurant at Pallas House in Double Bay

Australia’s famous chef and restaurateur, Neil Perry, is back from his brief retirement and has announced plans to open a new restaurant in an upcoming commercial and lifestyle precinct, the Pallas House in Double Bay.

After stepping back from his role as the Rockpool Dining Group’s culinary director in mid-2020, the chef revealed that his new and still-unnamed restaurant will serve as the anchor tenant of the low-rise building that will be constructed on 30 to 36 Bay Street in the leafy eastern Sydney suburb.

His lease at Pallas House is good for 10 years. 



In an feature with the project developer, Fortis, Mr Perry said that he wants to “create one of the world’s best neighbourhood dining experiences,” where locals would love to hang out or meet as often as they’d like.

Mr Perry envisions a simple but high-quality fit-out, with about 178 seats, and has enlisted Caon Studios and ACME for the design and development. Longterm, the experienced restaurateur won’t just open a new restaurant but a “Double Bay institution” loved by locals and visitors from all over the world. 

Photo Credit: Facebook

This will be Mr Perry’s solo venture after 40 years. Post-COVID, Fortis believes that his venue will help Double Bay’s resurgence.

Meanwhile, Pallas House is set for completion in April 2021 and has also secured chef Damien Monley, who will open an all-day dining eatery. Much of the building will be rented out to commercial establishments, with Pallas Capital occupying the top two floors. 



Dog Lovers Could Find Their Forever Partner at Dating With Dogs in Double Bay

Are you a single dog owner in search of a human partner in life? Is your dog in need of company, too? Dating with Dogs might help you find a kindred spirit whilst your precious pup makes friends.

Organised by The Social Dog Company, Dating with Dogs will take place on Sunday, the 23rd of June 2019, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Golden Sheaf on New South Head Road.

Meet people whom you already have something in common with — a love for dogs — and spend an afternoon hanging out with like-minded individuals, whilst your dogs play with each other. If you currently don’t have a pup but you love to be around dogs and humans, you’re free to come to this social event, too!



Photo Credit: The Social Dog Company/Facebook

Tickets to this dating event are at $39. You can also book in advance for the Dating with Dogs meet up in July at the same place and time.

Dating can be quite a challenge in today’s digital-centric world where dating sites are littered with fake profiles. At this event, dog lovers will be assured of a great time even before they go. Because who can resist those charming pups, right?  



Wine and Dine Someone at Double Bay’s Bibo Wine Bar

If you are looking for a fine-dining experience in a relaxed and semi-suburban atmosphere, Bibo Wine Bar at Double Bay is the perfect restaurant for you.

Bibo Wine Bar opened in 2016 at the heart of Double Bay. It boasts delicious and contemporary offerings that are Mediterranean and Portuguese inspired. With head chef Jose Silva at the Bibo Wine Bar’s kitchen, guests will surely have dishes that are out of the ordinary- amazing set of dishes that are bursting with different flavours.

Bibo Wine Collection
Photo credit: bibo/ Facebook

Apart from the restaurant’s cuisine, another worth noting feature is their outstanding and exceptional wine collection. Bibo Wine Bar’s Head Sommelier, Louella Matthews, has selected and curated different award-winning wines based on their terroir. And Bibo Wine Bar is proud to have these different selections of wines coming from the best sites here in Australia as well as all around the world.

Head Chef and Restaurateur: Jose Silva

Jose Silva
Photo credit: bibo/ Facebook

Bibo Wine Bar’s menu is very much influenced by its Head Chef and Restaurateur, Jose Silva. Silva is a Portugal native who gained his fine dining experience as the Head Chef of Guillaume Brahimi’s 3-hat Opera House restaurant for 12 years.

In 2013, he decided to take a break from fine dining and dwell on baking Portuguese pastries. Hence, he opened the Sweet Belem, a Portuguese pastry boutique specialising in traditional and modern Portuguese tarts and pastries in Petersham. Tarts and other goodies from Sweet Belem are also available for purchase at the Bibo Wine Bar.

And in April of 2016, Jose Silva opened his first modern and elegant restaurant and wine bar- Bibo Wine Bar at Double Bay. According to Silva, he decided to open up the business in the eastern suburb since the dining industry in the area is currently at its peak.

Opening Hours

Monday- Thursday5:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Friday- Saturday12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Sunday12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

For reservations and group bookings, click here.

Royal Oak Hotel in Double Bay Receives Noise Complaints from Neighbours

One of Double Bay’s well-established local pubs, the Royal Oak Hotel, received noise complaints from its new neighbours.

In February 2019, Double Bay’s Royal Oak Hotel, as well as three other long-standing iconic pubs across NSW, namely The Moore Park View, The Marlborough, and The Kings Cross Hotel, received noise complaints from their recently arrived neighbours.

The Office of Liquor, Racing and Gaming is responsible for handling and managing the filed complaints. According to their imposed rule, noise coming from clubs, pubs, and beer gardens must not be heard inside any home from midnight until 7:00 a.m. on any night.

John Green, NSW Director of Liquor and Policing, also mentioned that before filing a noise complaint, the noise in itself needs to be offensive by the nature of its volume, the type of music, and the time when it was played.

Green further states how it has already been part of the local culture for a household to move next to a pub. Naturally, these newly arrived residents will complain about the noise. But a sad reality that is often all true is that the complaints passed by the neighbours actually have some success in changing long-standing establishments and even practices which may cause a big impact on many people of the community.



Complaints on Royal Oak Hotel

Renowned as one of the Eastern Suburbs’ most iconic local establishments, the 145-year-old Royal Oak in Double Bay is known for its great food, convenient location, multi-level venue, and friendly staff.

It is famous for Phil’s Rooftop, along with an extensive menu with a delicious selection including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Royal Oak also has a sports bar showing all major domestic and international sports, and a full tab of facilities that will ensure entertainment for all its customers each day.

Ever since its opening, the Royal Oak Hotel is indeed a local favourite by many. For years patrons of the Royal Oak have been able to eat and drink at the tables set outside on Bay Street until recently when noise complaints were made.

Royal Oak Hotel
Photo credit: Royal Oak Hotel Double Bay/ Facebook

According to the Spokesperson of the Woollahra Council, numerous noise complaints were filed against the Royal Oak Hotel, specifically on their use of the footpath area at Bay Street.

The Council has already sought for the Royal Oak Hotel to comply with its existing planning consent. This states that the use of the footpath area at Bay Street will now be limited until 10:00 p.m. only every night.

Given this outcome, patrons of the Royal Oak Hotel were greatly displeased which is why they began on signing a petition in support of the pub. This petition has now reached several hundred signatures. Once they are able to finalise the petition, they will be forwarding it to the Council for reconsideration.



Council Reviews 5-Year Library Strategic Plan to Improve Woollahra Libraries in Double Bay

The Woollahra Council has revealed its five-year library strategic plan for the Woollahra Libraries in Double Day and its networks.

Following a consultation with the public, the Council is currently reviewing the plan before publishing the final report and recommendation in August 2019.

The library strategic plan should cover the evolving needs of the community and users of the Woollahra Libraries, located at New South Head Road, and its annexes on Watson Bay and Paddington. At least 55 per cent of residents from these suburbs, or about 32,162 members, use the libraries’ facilities on a regular basis.



Since the Woollahra Libraries opened in May 2016, the Council has strived to make this centre a major part of the community by building a vast collection of books, magazines, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs for loaning. It has also provided members access to downloadable eBooks, music, and audiobooks.

The library has a fast Internet connection, a number of computer networks, and play equipment that members can use for their learning and enjoyment. It also provides spacez for different events, workshops, or group meets.

Photo Credit: Woollahra Libraries/Facebook
Photo Credit: Woollahra Libraries/Facebook
Photo Credit: Woollahra Libraries/Facebook

As part of its review, the Council may call or email members regarding the five-year library strategic plan.



The Woollahra Libraries is an integration of the Woollahra Library and the Local History Centre (Hugh Latimer Centre) on Sherbrooke Avenue.

Amy Jean Privée Opens at Double Bay

Pamper yourself with a luxurious browcation at the newly opened Amy Jean Privée, located at The InterContinental Hotel Sydney Double Bay!

It takes a little work to achieve sophisticated and perfectly shaped brows. In fact, eyebrows today are considered to be more of an art form than just a simple add-on.

Luckily, Australia’s brow queen herself, Amy Jean, decided to open a salon at Double Bay that is ideal for her clientele who want to experience a luxurious ‘browcation’ without having the need to travel far away from the Eastern suburbs.

Amy Jean Privée Double Bay

The Amy Jean Privée salon is placed inside a hyper-luxe private suite of a five-star hotel for an ultimate eyebrow couture experience. This discrete yet sophisticated beauty haven is exclusively tailored for Amy Jean’s VIP clientele.

Amy Jean Privee
Photo credit: Amy Jean Brow Agency/ Facebook

Upon entering the suite, you will surely notice its splendid interiors that exude an aura of both decadence and femininity. Fresh flowers and scented candles are placed in majority of the tables and nooks of the suite that enhance the room’s airy and light-filled mood. Two treatment beds in adjoining rooms are also found inside the spacious suite.

Amy Jean Privee
Photo credit: Amy Jean Brow Agency/ Facebook

Services offered in this luxurious salon include brow sculpt, henna brows, feather touch and mist brow tattoo, lash extensions, keratin brow and lash treatments, forever lash liner, lip tint tattoo, skin needling, and eye elevate plasma tightening.

Apart from these services, Amy Jean also offers her Amy Jean Privée Collection, a selection of brow products, on Net-a-Porter.

The Amy Jean Privée Double Bay is strictly by appointment only. Click here to know more about the salon’s one-of-a-kind Privée Experience.



Boutique to Empire

Amy Jean started off with a single brow boutique in 2004 at Gold Coast, an area that does not have much salons that offer the same services as Amy Jean’s. Upon its opening, the boutique hit off easily given the highly rated reviews shared by its loyal customers.

Soon, word of her skills and expertise in eyes and brows spread. Amy Jean’s services became highly in demand.

She then found herself having a number of influential and wealthy clients coming from all over the world.

Amy Jean Privee
Photo credit: Amy Jean Brow Agency/ Facebook

At present, Amy Jean has three outlets in Sydney, and one in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Gold Coast. She also travels to London every eight weeks to service her eminent European clientele.



Learn the Remarkable History of Double Bay’s Iconic Gladswood House

Gladswood House, also called Glenyarrah and Seaford House, is a two-storey Gothic Revival residential mansion located in 11 Gladswood Gardens at Double Bay. It’s a heritage-listed property which, today, houses multiple occupants.

The main house’s features include:

The building stands on a property that stretches to three acres of land with its original stone gate pillars entrance facing the New South Head Road. In 1927, however, the land was subdivided into 14 blocks with the original residence assigned on Lot 6.

  • an entry vestibule leading to several adjoining rooms
  • the main staircase with stained-glass windows
  • a dining room with a ballroom extension
  • a cellar space
  • a cloakroom
  • the servants and service wing

Additional renovations over the years extended the house to include more cloakrooms and bath,  more verandahs and drawing rooms, a boudoir, a study, and the house manager’s flat.



How It All Began

This building was part of the Point Piper Estate owned by New South Wales Corps Captain John Piper in the 1820s. Faced with financial difficulties, Capt Piper sold the property to philanthropist and politician Daniel Cooper. Following his death, Mr Cooper bestowed the property to his nephew, also named Daniel.

The younger Copper leased the property for 99 years to Edwin Thomas Beilby in 1856. Two years later, Beilby sold his leasehold to Samuel Deane Gordon, who decided to build a mansion by the waterfront.

Building Glenyarrah

In 1862, Mr Gordon enlisted architect William Munro to build Gladswood House, then known as Glenyarrah. Newspaper records show that Mr Munro advertised the job for stonemasons for the site with The Sydney Morning Herald.

Construction of the two-storey sandstone structure took two years. The design of the house had a slate roof with Tudor chimneys and a fireplace reminiscent of 14th century England. The building also had two wings and a verandah with large window bays.

The Gladswood House, circa 1870
Photo Credit:
State Library of NSW

Changing Hands, Changing Names

Gladswood House was originally named the Seaford House during construction. It was later changed to Glenyarrah when Mr Gordon and his family moved in.

Mr Gordon stayed at Gladswood House until 1882. His monogram is set on the panels of the stained glass windows that brighten the lobby of the main stairs. He left the property to his daughter Jessie Maria Gordon upon his death in 1882.

The famous Gladswood House stained-glass window.
Photo Credit: Woollahra Municipal Council
Inside the Gladswood House
Photo Credit:
Woollahra Municipal Council


But since Ms Gordon lived in England with her husband, Gladswood House was leased to Francis Bothamley Lark, and later to Thomas Hussey Kelly of the Sydney Smelting Co. The latter would eventually buy the property from Ms Gordon and leave the house to his son, Sydney-born Thomas Herbert Kelly, upon his death.

From Glenyarrah to Glasswood

By 1913, however, the younger Kelly would sell the property to Melbourne local Mr John Spencer Brunton of the family that founded the Australian Flour Mills. It was he who changed the name of Glenyarrah to Gladswood House.

Mr John Spencer Brunton changed the name of Glenyarrah to Gladswood House.
Photo Credit:
Wikimedia Commons

Aside from the name change, Brunton would also make drastic renovations and additions to Gladswood House by hiring architect Howard Joseland, who favoured the “Queen Anne Style” — characterized by wide porches, shadowed entrances and lobbies, and brickwork with softer finish — to Munson’s Gothic inspirations.

The words “Brunton” and Gladswood” were carved on the floors of the house’s main lobby entrance during this massive renovation.

Following the new developments, Gladswood House would then be a distinguished house in Double Bay,  popular for its social events and parties, such as the wedding of Mr Brunton’s son to Mr Joseland’s daughter.

The guests during one of the parties at Gladswood House.
Photo Credit: Arthur Wigram Allen/
Wikimedia Commons

Upon Brunton’s death, Frederick Louis Perini, a builder from Rose Bay, took ownership of the house and turned it into a residential site for multiple occupancies in 1937. Gwendoline Jean Von Tidermann and later, Ray William Stafford and Hannah Maria Stafford, took a lease on the house and managed it as a guest house or private hotel until 1988.

In 1990, Coronet Investments, headed by Ian Joye, built three two-storey apartments with three bedrooms to the west of the original house.

The Gladswood House circa 1978 with the addition to the western side.
Photo Credit:
Commonwealth of Australia/CC-BY


Becoming a Heritage Site

In 1999, New South Wales government listed Gladswood House as a heritage site, one of the very few examples of the work of Mr Munro. It’s also a popular landmark in Double Bay and one of the oldest examples of a house with Gothic and colonial influences in NSW.



Another reason that it was listed as a heritage site was that it had many occupants of significant importance to the business, political and cultural history the region and Australia. Additionally, the renovations and alterations done to the house displayed the craftsmanship of noted Australian builders.