The cult hospitality group is bringing its signature greenery, indulgent menus and crowd-pleasing charm to the edge of the Royal Botanic Garden.

If there’s one Sydney hospitality group that knows how to turn a venue into a destination, it’s The Grounds. Now, the team behind The Grounds of Alexandria, The Grounds of the City, and The Grounds Coffee Factory is preparing to open its most ambitious and atmospheric project yet, The Grounds in The Domain, set within a 190-year-old heritage precinct at the entry to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Located at the historic Domain Gateway, near the Art Gallery of NSW, St Mary’s Cathedral, and Hyde Park Barracks, the new venue will breathe life into a collection of sandstone buildings, including the beautifully preserved Domain Lodge, which dates back to 1835. In a rare move, parts of this historic pocket will be opened to the public for the very first time, transforming it into a vibrant meeting place where history, hospitality, and horticulture intersect.

The 25-year agreement follows a rigorous procurement process and a change in legislation that allows trusted operators to activate heritage sites with care. For The Grounds, the vision is clear: to respectfully revitalise the precinct while creating a lush, welcoming space that feels both special and accessible. Better still, revenue from the venue will directly support the horticultural, scientific, and educational work of Botanic Gardens of Sydney, meaning every coffee, long lunch, or celebratory dinner gives back to one of the city’s most treasured institutions.

Quick Bites

• What to Eat: Seasonal brunch plates, beautifully executed classics, and garden-inspired dishes, think slow-cooked meats, vibrant salads and signature Grounds-style pastries.
• What to Drink: Expertly brewed coffee (naturally), crisp NSW wines, and botanical cocktails made for lingering afternoons.
• When to Go: A lazy weekend brunch after a gallery visit, or a golden-hour drink that turns into dinner as the gardens wind down.
• Where to Play After: Wander through the Royal Botanic Garden, visit the Art Gallery of NSW, or take a sunset stroll through Hyde Park.
• Vibe Check: Heritage grandeur meets lush garden escape, equal parts cultural landmark and everyday hang.
• Book It: Bookings will be essential once doors open, keep an eye on The Grounds’ socials for opening dates and reservations.