Our Favourite New Restaurant Openings Of 2024 (So Far)
Consider this your spotify wrapped of food
Bennys Restaurant, Gunnamatta Bay
As is tradition when the year nears its end, it’s time to look back at the year that was. But we’re not talking noteworthy events or even Spotify Wrapped, we’re talking foodie joints - and this year, the Shire really brought it to the table (literally).
So, from authentic Italian to revamped favourites, these are the six best new restaurants and foodie openings we saw in the Sutherland Shire in 2024 that have our hearts racing and our stomachs rumbling.
Best new restaurants and foodie openings in the Sutherland Shire for 2024
Fior
In what was possibly the most highly-anticipated opening of the year, Gymea residents were lucky enough to receive the Italian delight that is Fior right at the heart of the suburb. Filling the physical space left behind by Caruso’s, Fior blends authentic Italian dishes (think antipasti, freshly-made pasta and a tiramisu to die for) with the charm of contemporary Australian design and culture. It’s the latest creation of Tristan Rosier and Rebecca Fanning (of Surry Hills’ Jane and Arthur), so you know it’s gotta be good.
Pippis Cronulla
Just in time for summer, Cronulla’s newest dining destination, Pippis, has arrived at Calico Marina, offering a relaxed Mediterranean-inspired vibe with stunning views over Gunnamatta Bay. From the creators of The Grounds, Adam and Jasmin, Pippis serves up seasonal dishes like Shakshuka, Charcoal BBQ Octopus, and crispy pizzas from a traditional deck oven, all with a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a casual lunch or dinner with a view, Pippis promises a refreshing and sophisticated dining experience by the water.
Folk
It was round two for Gymea when the suburb nabbed a second new restaurant in July this year. Boasting designer interiors and good vibes, Folk brings the talents of familiar local chef, Albi Cuni, to Gymea’s beloved Tradies venue. In a unique twist, the Folk menu combines pub-favourite classics like big juicy burgers and crispy schnittys with a lengthy selection of pizzas, saucy pastas and a mouth-watering selection of tapas.
Rocco’s
Brand new to the scene, Rocco’s is located in Miranda Hotel, and it’s all kinds of fresh. Slinging cocktails, serving up small shareable bites and great tunes from a live DJ, Rocco’s is moody, sophisticated and sleek. Our faves? The Roc, Rocco’s Espresso, the Woodfired Bread and Burrata, and the Potato and Goats Cheese Tortellini with prawns and burnt butter. Oh - and one more tip. Visit during Aperitivo Hour, every Friday and Saturday from 5:00pm until 7:00pm and get your hands around $12 spritzes, $5 woodfired bread and $2 oysters.
Summer Salt
No, we haven’t put one of the Shire’s existing most renowned venues on here by mistake, because, ICYMI, Summer Salt flung open its doors to a brand new era of style, food and events just months ago. The bold interiors mirror the azure blues and chrome highlights of the view beyond the restaurant’s full-scale windows, where Elouera Beach shines back at guests. Summer Salt’s refreshed menu features a strong focus on seafood, with highlights spanning Whipped Organic Ricotta with truffle salsa, Cone Bay Barramundi and Sorrentine Limoncello Tiramisu, as well as a line-up of impressive cocktails and wines.
Pino’s Vino e Cucina al Mare
It’s the hottest new Cronulla joint to sip fine wine and get your lips around plates of fresh pasta, but Pino’s Vino e Cucina has already made a name for itself among Sydneysiders, who adore the Alexandra venue of the same name. Derived from founder Matteo Margiotta’s love of his home town, Puglia, as well as a respect for the seaside location, signature dishes at Pino’s include a Grigliata Mista Seafood Platter, classic Pici Cacio e Pepe, a rich lobster pasta and bar bites.
Bennys
The only restaurant to call Gunnamatta Bay home, Bennys is nestled against the stunning waters of the bay and shaded by beautiful eucalypts. Bringing a fresh Australian-Mediterranean-inspired flare to Cronulla’s foodie scene, the menu is crafted by hatted chef RJ Lines. From mouthwatering Bluefin Tuna Carpaccio to the irresistible “Barra in a Bag”, there’s something to delight every palate. The sleek, coastal-inspired interiors create the perfect laidback yet sophisticated vibe, ideal for a long lunch or romantic date night. Embracing the area's unique lifestyle, they score extra points with a takeaway option for those who prefer a picnic: the quintessential Aussie classic—fish and chips, served with mushy peas and tartare sauce.
Posted: October 2024