Meet the new-look Bathers’ Pavilion, set to disrupt Sydney’s coastal dining scene with a fresh fit-out, new team and revamped offering.
The surf club has been a staple on Australian shores for generations. A place for kids of all ages to catch up and congregate before a dip. And a visit to the humble kiosk has been everyone’s preferred way to refuel after a day in the sun. From ice-cold soft drinks to buckets of salty chips, these grab-and-go spots inevitably attract a crowd when swimming season hits. But when it comes to this next waterfront venue, you’ll want to hang around long after the sun has gone down.
Balmoral Bathers Pavilion has been an icon on the shores of Mosman for decades. This building’s 1920s art deco facade has captured the attention of Sydneysiders for years, boasting an irresistible vantage point with spectacular views over Balmoral Beach. And this spring, the heritage building has re-emerged following an extensive transformation. Designer Luchetti Krelle has worked her magic on the interiors, with pastel blues, white stripes and custom furniture pieces curated in a nod to the building’s historic Mediterranean charm.
Co-owners Serge Dansereau and Ian Pagen head up the new-look Bathers’ Pavilion, bringing a new era of dining to the space to take Sydneysiders from beach snacks to fine dining all under one roof. They’ve brought together a stellar line-up of hospitality heavyweights to bring their vision to life. The venue’s fine dining restaurant is lead by head chef Cameron Johnston (ex-St Claude’s and Jonah’s) while the more relaxed Bathers’ Bistro is headed up by Charles Woodward and Peter Gong (prior 12-year stint at Rose Bay’s Catalina). Sweet tooths will be treated to the culinary expertise of head pastry chef Kumiko Endo (Attica, Tetsuya’s, Fujisaki). Plus, the front-of-house crew will be led by restaurant manager Jess Mead (ACME, The Bridge Room) while Cam Fairbairn (ACME, Bar Brose) will keep the showing running smoothly as GM of service.
The reimagined interiors take guests seamlessly from casual to formal dining experiences. Inside, you’ll find a fine dining restaurant boasting water views from every seat and a 350-strong wine list, adjoining private dining room (The Good Room) as well as an exclusive new Chef’s Table space for 12. A new lounge and bar has also emerged, with 25 wines by the glass and a 20-strong cocktail list with indulgent bar snacks such as Ortiz Spanish anchovy focaccia fingers available. The former cafe has been upgraded to the Bathers’ Bisto, offering a welcoming spot for breakfast, long lunches and family dinners serving everything from steak and chips, whole roast chicken and gourmet pizzas.
Looking for the perfect spot for a seaside Sunday lunch? Head to their first floor Louis Roederer Terrace, open for the first time ever to diners every Sunday for lunch. Serving up Champagne, chilled Gulf prawns, steak Frites and more, it’s the perfect spot to top off the weekend and soak up the sun. And if you’re looking for a bite to eat on the go, head to the Bathers’ Pavilion’s expanded Kiosk, serving takeaway beach picnic hampers, artisan ice pops, plus classic fish and chips.
Balmoral Bathers’ Pavilion is now open at 4 The Esplanade, Mosman, open 7 days a week. To find out more and to book your spot, click here.