The award-winning Merivale venue re-opens, returning with reimagined versions of its cult classic dishes.
It’s a landmark venue from an era of Sydney’s culinary past. Poised in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, Lotus opened in 2002, proving a favourite local haunt during a vibrant chapter of King Cross’ history. And this spring, this iconic bistro and cocktail bar returns to Challis Avenue for an extended year-long pop-up concept. And we’re mighty glad to see the brief return of this Potts Point institution.
The move comes as a farewell to Merivale’s ownership of the Challis Avenue space, which was sold by the group earlier this year. Previously, the three-story building was occupied by Merivale’s The Fish Shop, a locally-focused seafood eatery and before that the original Lotus venue. And now, Lotus 2.0 brings back this icon for one last hurrah to give the concept a fun, nostalgic farewell.
The Lotus 2.0 pop-up sees the return of executive chef Dan Hong’s much-loved Mediterranean-meets-Asian dishes alongside a string of new arrivals. The cult favourite Lotus cheeseburger is back and better than ever, now served with brisket, chuck steak and dry-aged beef fat, as well as their famous hot fudge sundae. This time around, Hong has added a few new additions including a black truffle grilled toastie, hand-cut noddles with Scarlet prawn and XO, smoked anchovies with cultured cream and scallion bread plus a nostalgic Frosty Fruit granita with coconut sorbet. As for drinks, the bar is led by Colin Tam and Sam Egerton, curating a list that plays heavily to cocktails. On the menu, you’ll find reimagined classics like the Lotus Martini with Zubrowka, Peach Schnapps, apple juice and passionfruit, plus a stellar selection of new delights.
For Hong, this pop up is his chance to farewell the iconic institution he was instrumental in shaping. “Lotus is where my journey with Merivale began. They were some of the best years of my career and it means so much to go back and cook in the kitchen once again. I’m ready and raring to have a lot of fun and it is great to be part of a small brigade, too,” tells Hong.
The space itself nods to the intimate 70s glamour of the original spot, featuring mirrored ceilings, vintage floral sofas and low chairs upholstered in velvet. Behind the design is Justin Hemmes, Bettina Hemmes and Amanda Talbot, all investing in paying tribute to this pivotal gamechanger in Sydney’s food and drink scene.
Lotus 2.0 opens for service on Saturday, October 19th at 22 Challis Avenue, Potts Point. For more information and to book your spot, click here.