We love a restaurant that commits to a theme, and the latest on our must-visit list in Sydney is 200-seat venue Safari which recently opened in Sydney’s Circular Quay on Bligh Street.
In Swahili the word ‘safari’ means ‘to travel’ and that’s the concept behind The Meat & Wine Co’s latest restaurant’s architecture, décor and food. Award-winning architects COOOP, led by Callie van der Merwe, Roberto Zambi and Calvin Janse van Vuuren, created a space where diners would feel transported and like they’re going on — in the team’s words — “an enchanting journey”.
COOOP created interiors that feel like the wilderness of South Africa. They drew on South Africa’s traditional architecture and natural landscapes for inspiration and tapped into ‘the spirit of Ubuntu’. In their words, it’s a design intent that fosters meaningful interactions and a sense of community among guests.
One of the most eye-catching features of the restaurant is the African Boma dwellings. In South African tradition, Boma dwellings are hut-like with a fireplace at their centre and where communities gather to share stories. Each Boma and private dining room in Safari is named after African tribes around today.
In the centre of the restaurant, a custom-built Acacia tree stands tall. The tree is known for its resilience and vitality and holds deep significance in African culture. The resulting décor is a blend of luxury and tradition.
The food offering is in line with that too. On offer are classics from Meat and Wine Co’s menus (it has venues around Australia) plus some traditional South African dishes including Bunny Chow, a flavourful lamb curry served in a bread roll that’s barely found anywhere else in Australia.
After polishing off the curry, tuck into Malva Pudding, a spongy caramelised texture pudding stuffed with apricot jam and liqueur. Head Sommelier Joseph Moussa curated a list of wines and cocktails to match the food including an impressive selection of South African vintages and African-inspired drinks.
The restaurant joins Rockpool Bar and Grill, Chophouse and Alfie’s in the Bligh Street area — all of which focus on steaks. So Safari should be right at home.
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