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Applejack Brings New Energy to Sydney Opera House Dining with Opera Bar and House Canteen Now Open
- Deb Carr
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Two of Sydney’s most recognisable harbourside dining spots have entered a new era, with Applejack officially taking over Opera Bar and launching House Canteen, both located beneath the sails of the Sydney Opera House.
The change marks the beginning of a 10-year stewardship for Applejack at one of the world’s most iconic cultural landmarks, bringing a refreshed approach to food, music and the overall visitor experience at these harbourside venues.
A familiar hospitality name, now centre stage on the harbour
If the name Applejack sounds familiar, it’s because the group is behind some of Sydney’s most loved venues, including The Butler, RAFI, Forrester’s and Bopp & Tone.
After securing the Opera House contract through a competitive tender process, the team moved quickly, reopening Opera Bar and rolling out House Canteen just weeks later. The aim is clear: create venues that feel welcoming, distinctly local, and deeply connected to Sydney’s food and cultural scene.
Opera Bar: local produce with front-row harbour views
Under the direction of Applejack Culinary Director Patrick Friesen, Opera Bar’s new menu puts NSW producers firmly in the spotlight. Expect generous antipasto platters featuring mortadella from Kogarah, mozzarella from Auburn and pickles from Thirlmere, alongside fresh seafood dishes and a reworked version of the venue’s much-loved cheeseburger.
There’s also a renewed focus on pizza, made with long-fermented dough using sustainably grown wheat, topped with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. It’s casual dining done well — designed for long afternoons by the water or pre-show drinks with a view.
For opening hours and bookings, visit the official site. Traveller reviews are available on TripAdvisor
House Canteen: all-day dining that moves at your pace
Now open daily from 7.30am until late, House Canteen offers a more relaxed, flexible option for Opera House visitors and locals alike. Breakfast covers the classics — avocado on toast, pastries and barista-made coffee — while lunch and dinner lean into Asian-inspired flavours made with local produce.
The menu is intentionally accessible, with sandwiches, salads and grab-and-go options sitting alongside slow-cooked curries, dumplings and sushi. There’s also a thoughtful kids’ menu, making it an easy choice for families exploring Circular Quay.
Whether it’s a quick bite between plans or a longer, laid-back meal overlooking the harbour, House Canteen fits seamlessly into a day at the Opera House.
Music, culture and what’s coming next
Applejack has also partnered with Arts-Matter to curate Opera Bar’s seven-night-a-week music program. From acoustic afternoon sets to evening DJs, the lineup is designed to complement performances happening inside the Opera House, extending the cultural experience outdoors.
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Looking ahead, visitors can expect updated Tour & Dine packages, new staff uniforms designed by local brands, a House Canteen rebrand in 2026, and a major refurbishment planned for Opera Bar.
With its mix of local food, live music and one of Sydney’s best harbour views, Applejack’s takeover signals an exciting new chapter for dining at the Opera House — one that feels proudly Sydney, from plate to playlist.
Images supplied.
Address: Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney, New South Wales 2000 W: https://operabar.com.au/ & https://operabar.com.au/house-canteen/ | IG: @operabarsydney |
TT: @operabarsydney & IG: @housecanteensydney
