The Art Gallery of New South Wales announces the opening of an exciting new restaurant concept, Art Gallery Restaurant Crafted by Matt Moran this Friday, March 26. The restaurant launches in partnership with newly appointed culinary advisor, Matt Moran, who will sit across the development of restaurant and catering menus, and work with food and beverage partner, The Fresh Collective to execute his vision.
Taking advantage of the impressive location, Crafted by Matt Moran, in the former Chiswick at the Gallery site, will provide a unique all-day dining experience for Art Gallery of NSW guests and those simply looking for brunch or lunch in one of Sydney’s most stunning dining rooms. Reflecting Moran’s signature style, Crafted by Matt Moran will showcase locally sourced produce and premium Australian meat and seafood through a light, Mediterranean-inspired menu guided by the seasons.
The Art Gallery of NSW holds a special place in my heart, having worked with the venue for the last seven years,” says Moran.
“It’s an incredible venue, and grazing your way through our brunch, lunch or afternoon tea menu, while inside one of Sydney’s cultural hubs is unbeatable in my opinion – there’s no better day out. In fact, many of the dishes have been inspired by the unique space itself.”
Mid-week brunch invites guests to choose from a selection of light dishes including buttermilk lemon scones; blueberry and almond crostata; crab sliders or an autumn fruit bowl alongside a selection of Single O coffee, tea, fresh juices and Australian sparkling. On weekends the brunch offering expands with Sydney rock oysters; corn fritters and brunch classic – a croque monsieur with Heidi Farms gruyère. The lunch menu easily adapts to suit guests, whether it’s grazing on antipasti such as Alto olive oil focaccia paired with taramasalata and Mayan Gold crisps and La Stella burrata with autumn figs. For a longer lunch menu, highlights include beef carpaccio with rocket, fennel, radicchio and parmesan; southern calamari fritti, grilled swordfish with sautéed Italian greens and olive dressing; and blueberry and almond crostata with lemon mascarpone to finish.
The drinks menu has been curated by Samantha Payne and features an all-Australianwine list, as well as Champagne, cocktails, beers, ciders and a substantial non-alcoholic offering.
Moran has developed a selection of menus for events to complement the Fresh event packages. The thoughtful, ever-changing menu, paired with the Gallery location with views of Sydney Harbour and Woolloomooloo, sets Crafted by Matt Moran apart as a unique space to host a private event or wedding for up to 120 people. Working alongside Matt to deliver the relaxed and seasonal menu will be The Fresh Collective Group Executive Chef Keith Higginson, who brings with him a wealth of experience from bills, Bathers’ Pavilion, Sartoria in London and Bali’s La Lucciola.
Art Gallery of NSW director of development, John Richardson, said the Gallery is delighted to continue to collaborate with Matt Moran in his new capacity as culinary advisor for the much-loved venue.
“We are thrilled to be guided by the culinary expertise of Matt Moran and work closely with the experienced team at The Fresh Collective to deliver our guests an exciting and memorable dining experience in what remains one of Sydney’s most extraordinary locations,” said Richardson. “We look forward to welcoming guests to the beautifully redesigned restaurant as we present a packed program of exhibitions and events and launch celebrations for our milestone 150th anniversary and the centenary of the Archibald Prize.”
The restaurant will launch alongside a packed program of exhibitions at the Gallery, including The National 2021: New Australian Art (26 March–5 September), Margel Hinder: Modern in Motion (until 2 May), ARTEXPRESS 2021 (until 5 April), and Longing for Home (until 22 Aug).
Guests can look forward to collaborations with Australian artists to come, with special dishes on the Crafted by Matt Moran menu to align with future exhibitions such as the Archibald Prize in June.
Crafted by Matt Moran will open five days a week for brunch and lunch, beginning 26 March. Bookings and further info available via www.craftedbymattmoran.com.au
Crafted by Matt Moran
Art Gallery of NSW, The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Website: www.craftedbymattmoran.com.au
Instagram: @craftedbymattmoran
Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Friday: 11.00am–4.00pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10.00am–4.00pm
Monday & Tuesday: restaurant closed, available for events
Main image: Steven Woodburn
LBV ~ Le Bon Vivant 