Jacksons on George in Circular Quay has played a key role in Sydney nightlife since it opened in 1986, and so expectations are high for when it re-opens this September, with a new look and menu.
Maurice Terzini, founder of Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, is the new creative direction of the three-floor venue. Terzini and General Manager, Michael Broome, have brought on board Steven Sinclair, ex-Icebergs, as Head Chef — to create menus for each of the venue’s three distinct spaces.
“Steven’s approach to cooking and teamwork is exactly what we wanted for Jacksons on George,” says Broome. “He trained under some brilliant chefs in the UK before joining Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, and the dishes he looks to cook and eat are what this menu has been developed from.”
Sinclair’s focus, says Broome, is on letting the produce shine, keeping the presentation elegant yet simple and reinterpreting classic dishes without completely redefining them. Sinclair has used that same approach to food across the whole venue, so no matter which area you dine in, you’ll be experiencing the same refined, but unfussy approach to all dishes.
The ground floor will house the Public Bar, which Broome says will be a great place to grab a quick bite at lunch or drop in for a drink after work. Bistro George, on the middle floor, he describes as combining a buzzy atmosphere with elegant food. And finally, the Rooftop, he says, is where you want to be to watch the world go by with a cocktail-in-hand.
“It’s a great vantage point to soak in the buzz of the city, and I know will be a go-to bar destination this summer,” says Broome.
Sydney-based interior architecture practice, Richards Stanisich, is behind the fit-out — creating a space that feels timeless, but is at the same time fresh and welcoming. Broome says the venue’s design was purposely designed to be utilitarian so it appeals to all kinds of demographics and experiences. Commissioned artwork by artists in residence will adorn the venue’s walls — including pieces by an Archibald Prize finalist and another by a winner.
“It was important to us to create a venue that offered more than just great food and drinks – it needed to weave in the beating cultural heart of this city,” says Broome.
“We’ve collaborated with some amazing local artists to create bespoke pieces that you’ll find throughout, including the stairwell. We want visitors walking through to feel engaged and for them to be reminded of the incredible artistic talent we have in this country.”
Jacksons on George has been closed since 2018 while it underwent its revamp — though, Broome calls it “more of a monumental transformation”.
“The original building was demolished and the new Jacksons on George has been built from scratch with a brand-new, multi-level hospitality destination in its place,” he says.
“The site appealed to us as it’s in an accessible location attractive to a range of demographics, from the corporates who work in the buildings around us and travellers walking Circular Quay, to Sydneysiders wanting to experience this buzzing part of the CBD.”
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