With a $170 million renovation comes new retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of the city.
MLC Centre in Sydney’s thriving CBD will transform into a vibrant entertainment precinct after a $170 million dollar renovation and a name change. 25 Martin Place is set to open later this year and will deliver 6,000 square meters of retail space across four levels, unique new restaurant offerings, and alfresco dining space looking onto bustling Martin Place.
MLC Centre has been an icon of Sydney’s CBD since it was established in 1978. At the time, architect Harry Seidler built it as the tallest skyscraper in the Southern Hemisphere. Fast forward 40 years, 25 Martin Place is set to celebrate a new and improved identity for generations of shoppers and foodies to come. City of Sydney Lord Mayor, Clover Moore stated, “25 Martin Place has something to offer shoppers, tourists, diners, office workers, and theatre-goers – a wonderful revival that will help keep our city’s heart beating as we emerge from the impacts of the pandemic.”
Wondering what retail and restaurant offerings you can expect? Here are our highlights so far…
Valentino – Shopperholics can lap it up at a brand new Australian flagship store. The international luxury brand will present a fashion experience that spans across two levels on the corner of Castlereagh and King Street. Expect the iconic craftsmanship, romanticism, and classic style to be presented just in time for Christmas.
Botswana Butchery – After 14 years of history for the brand in New Zealand, the restaurant is bringing its premium offering to the CBD. The menu focuses on quality cuts of meat showcases in a simplistic way. Expect the best locally sourced food and beverage that Australia and New Zealand have to offer.
Aalia – After the culinary team spent time exploring lesser-known regions and coastlines of the Middle East and North Africa, Aalia was born. The menu showcases a modern exploration of Middle Eastern food in a completely unique way. Taste incredible dishes that use unknown and forgotten ingredients, celebrated in new and exciting ways.
Kazan – Kazan allows guests to experience the theatre and art of Japanese cuisine with influences from South America. The restaurant will be within a unique circular space above the Theatre Royal Sydney.
Theatre Royal Sydney – Theatre Royal Sydney is under refurbishment and will return to operation in late 2021. The entrance is being repurposed to feature 13m high floor to ceiling glass to reveal the spectacular foyer, signature art pieces, along with a bespoke food and beverage offering. The interior is being transformed to international standards to house world-class productions from Australia and all around the world.
White + Wong’s – White + Wong’s will bring all your favourite street foods from countries including China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. You’ll experience big and fresh flavours from housemade curry pastes, BBQ Pork Buns, whole Peking Duck, Bang Bang Chicken and more.
Sardine Bars – Sardine Bars will be located next door to White + Wong’s restaurant for your post-work tipple. Behind the bar is a thoughtfully chosen wine list including French and local bubbles, a fantastic range of white, rosé and red wines plus non-alcoholic options. Along with the extensive wine list, there’s the option of a custom-made cocktail, tailored to satisfy your tastes exactly.
Cabana Bar – If you’re after a staycation in the heart of the city, Cabana Bar can deliver. Nestled in a lush inner-city oasis with an open-air terrace spanning over 100 meters overlooking Martin Place, guests are invited to escape to Cabana Bar, where you can drink cheeky, eat well and holiday often.
L’uva Pasta & Wine Bar – The Roman inspired pasta and wine bar brings a unique offering to 25 Martin Place. Enjoy a wine list built on boutique wineries from Europe alongside dishes including Zucchini Flowers, Kingfish Crudo, Handmade Fusilli with Veal Brisket Ragu and Tagliatelle with Blue Swimmer Crab.
Toby’s Estate – Workers will be happy to see Toby’s Estate set up shop in the lobby. With state of the art coffee equipment and a Single Origin coffee menu allowing customers to choose from multiple roasts at any one time, you’ll stay well-caffeinated.