This November, Rose Bay will welcome Aambra, a 140-seat restaurant bringing the vibrancy, spice and warmth of Levantine cuisine to a 120-year-old heritage-listed church.

Once home to the Rose Bay Uniting Church, now lovingly revived after a decade of stillness, the venue is being transformed into a sanctuary of flavour and design, blending centuries-old culinary traditions from Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Cyprus and Egypt with Sydney’s flair for modern dining.

The vision comes from owner Cristian Gorgees, who enlisted acclaimed designer Paul Papadopoulos (DS17) to breathe new life into the landmark. Inside, 10-metre-high cathedral ceilings, stained-glass windows, and arched doorways set a heavenly backdrop for an open kitchen and flame grill where seafood, meats, and vegetables are cooked over fire and served on handmade ceramics. Upstairs, a glass-enclosed mezzanine offers private dining with sweeping views of the restaurant below, while a green-filled timber deck outside will bring alfresco dining to the eastern suburbs.

Guiding the menu is executive chef Gianluca Lonati (ex-Nour and Esca Hospitality Group), who will showcase Levantine flavours through dishes like masgouf-style fish, pulled lamb sfiha, and house-made flatbreads.

Quick Bites

What to Eat: Pulled lamb sfiha, masgouf-style fish, and smoky char-grilled seafood served with freshly baked flatbreads.
What to Drink: Cocktails inspired by Levantine spirits and spices, or a glass of Lebanese wine to keep things authentic.
When to Go: Golden hour on the deck or a long weekend dinner under the chandeliers.
Cost: Mains from ~$35.
Where to Play After: Stroll along Rose Bay’s waterfront or finish the night with gelato from Gelbison down the road.
Vibe Check: Old-world grandeur meets Levantine warmth.
Book It: Find more details here.