Craving a taste of sunshine? Soluna brings the laid-back Californian lifestyle to North Sydney.

North Sydney has a new address for relaxed dining and laid-back vibes. Soluna, a restaurant, bar, and lounge that recently opened in the Walker Street precinct, brings a taste of Los Angeles sunshine to the Sydney tables.

Stepping into Soluna is akin to entering a breezy Californian oasis. Lush greenery softens the space, while curved booths and a calming colour palette of green, concrete, and timber create a sense of effortless ease. Whether you’re catching up with friends over cocktails at the bar, enjoying a long lunch in the light-filled dining area, or unwinding with a glass of wine in the cozy lounge, Soluna offers a space to suit your mood.

The menu, overseen by Executive Chef Rhys Connell (formerly of The Gantry and Sepia) and Head Chef Keno Perlas (Margaret, Pacific Club Bondi, Monopole), takes inspiration from the laid-back Californian lifestyle. Think fresh, light dishes that are bursting with flavour. Start with something tempting from the “bites & snacks” section, like the pressed prawn toast or herbed falafel with cream cheese and chilli.

For something lighter, the “light & raw” options are a great choice. The yellowfin tuna with sun-dried tomato, burrata, and basil sounds like a perfect summer starter, ideal for mopping up with thick slices of toasted bread. Seafood lovers won’t want to miss the lightly seared scallops with macadamia puree and plum, or the imperadore sashimi with rhubarb and yuzu koshu for a touch of citrusy heat.

House-made pastas are a Soluna specialty. Chef Connell recommends the sourdough spaghetti with roasted garlic miso and black pepper – a simple yet flavourful dish that lets the quality ingredients shine. For mains, the focus is on fresh, simply prepared proteins cooked on the oven broiler. This technique, according to Chef Connell, allows the natural flavours of the ingredients to take centre stage. Think of perfectly grilled coral trout with peppers and a chilli garlic crunch, or succulent lamb kofta with zhoug and cucumber yoghurt served on pillowy flatbread.

Sharing plates is a big part of the Soluna experience, perfect for catching up with a group. Don’t miss the Blackmore Wagyu karubi, a decadent 500g cut of Wagyu beef, or the roasted chicken Waldorf with garlic yoghurt for a lighter option.

And of course, no meal is complete without dessert. Pastry Chef Rhiann Mead (also The Charles Brasserie & Bar, Sol, and Genzo) has created a selection of sweet treats that are both playful and indulgent. The Monte Carlo-inspired ice cream sandwich is a must-try, with layers of coconut sorbet, honey ice cream, and a delightful coconut honey shortbread on top. For something a little different, the liquorice bullet petit fours offer a surprising herbal note, while the feta, thyme, and honey madeleines are a delightful sweet-and-salty combination.

Soluna’s bar menu offers a lighter selection of the dining menu’s dishes, alongside some dedicated bar bites. Whether you fancy a classic cocktail with a twist, like the Casa Rosada with its touch of heat, or a unique truffle choc hazelnut negroni, the bar team has something to quench your thirst.

So next time you’re looking for a taste of sunshine in the city, head to Soluna and soak up the laid-back Californian charm.

Stay updated on where to eat, drink, and play in Sydney by signing up for our free newsletter that brings the best of the city, straight to your inbox.

MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT:

Looking for more of a taste of Coastal California? Catch Waves & Cravings As Sandy’s Serves Up At URBNSURF