Taking on the dream of revitalising a local hero, which is much loved to the residents of Cabarita, requires courage, vision and innovation (not to mention a significant financial investment). To re-imagine a waterfront dining favourite in a tight-knit and food savvy community has to be done along with their support and a shared respect of its legacy and collective vision for the future. Enter experienced Restauranter Deep Gujral who opened Manjits Wharf on Darling Harbour in 2015 and assisted in shifting the stereotypical view of Indian food being something you pick up in a plastic container from the local curry house; to a refined, fine dining experience below a mirrored ceiling and glass chandelier with harbour views.
Whilst the obvious common denominator is founded upon location, what remains unanswered is the contrast in cuisine styles, and the underpinning journey behind that. Born to immigrant parents, Manjit and Kawal Gujral, Deep’s story is one of family, food, and the indelible connection between the two. From the age of five, Deep spent his afternoons doing homework in the restaurant, and by twelve, he was filling samosas and waiting tables. His teenage years saw him taking on deliveries and managing logistical tasks, gaining a firsthand understanding of the hard work and dedication it takes to run a successful hospitality business.
This early exposure to the restaurant world fostered a deep love for the industry, leading him to pursue formal education in hospitality and marketing. After completing his degrees, Deep joined forces with his parents to expand their operations, managing the Concord Function Centre and opening Manjit’s Restaurants in key locations across Sydney and beyond. His keen business acumen and passion for event management have seen him successfully cater to some of the city’s most high-profile events, from intimate gatherings to grand weddings with over 5,500 guests. Unsurprisingly, the transition in cuisines between Indian to Italian was inspired by the conviviality and joy brought about by both.
However, Angelo’s Cabarita isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community hub, a place for everything from casual waterfront dining to grand celebrations. The restaurant has become a favourite for weddings, corporate events, and private functions. The restaurant’s decor, which mixes Hamptons-style elegance with coastal comfort, creates an inviting atmosphere that pairs beautifully with its spectacular views of the bay. The aim is to provide the flexibility to serve the communities needs, whether that be bar snacks with a glass of wine and cocktails, or just a lazy lunch taking in the views – to a more formal dinner depending on the occasion. Don’t rule out date nights either, as its many things to many people.
This picturesque site and building designed and built in Heritage style in 1997 on The Parramatta River in Prince Edward Park for the citizen’s of Concord and its visitors demands an ownership that is committed to its delivering on its promise. Deep’s vision for Angelo’s has been to honour its rich heritage while infusing modern sophistication, offering an exceptional menu of Italian classics and fresh seafood. Signature dishes like Lobster Ravioli and Grilled Barramundi are beloved staples, but Deep has also worked closely with his Head Chef, Dalton Fernandes, to introduce innovative dishes that reflect the evolving tastes of their clientele. The occasional crossover into vibrant Modern Australian, given the spectacular waterside setting is not too much of a leap, and the excellent wine list curated by Ross Anderson provides that matching flexibility.
With its perfect blend of elegance, and culinary endeavour, Angelo’s Cabarita reflects Deep Gujral’s enduring philosophy: that great hospitality is about creating memories. Whilst progressive change is essential to any business evolving and thriving in these challenging economic times, Deep’s passion for food, service, and community remains the driving force behind everything he does. How Angelo’s reimagines itself in both a culinary and service sense whilst further fostering its bond with the locals in doing that will be an ongoing journey of continuous improvement. The good news is, its off to a very good start, so grab a seat by the Bay and leave the World behind!
By Dane Richards
Angelo’s
Wednesday to Sunday 11.30 to 3pm, 5.30pm to 10.30pm (last orders 9pm)
(02) 97432225
Prince Edward Park, Phillips St, Cabarita NSW 2137
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Image credits: JimmyWongEats
