Hospitality in the harbour city: local industry legends on what makes Sydney perfect for business events
From above, Sydney is a spectacular sight – white boats flit across sparkling saltwater set against iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Up close Sydney is just as compelling, thanks to the people and places that make it so magical.
We spoke to two minds behind some of Sydney’s most iconic and noteworthy venues and experiences to discover what they love about our city – and their tips on how to host a unique business event in the harbour city.
For the foodies
Helmed by executive chef Dan Hong, Mr Wong is the perfect choice for business event organisers who are looking for an ambient setting with mouth-watering menu options.
Sydney’s dining scene is anchored by artisan local produce, immigrants who have peppered it with Asian and Mediterranean flavours and creative minds who continue to push culinary boundaries. One such mind is Dan Hong, executive chef of the award-winning restaurant Mr Wong – as well as several other restaurants run by Australian hospitality group Merivale – who believes Sydney’s diversity is its strength, making it a clear winner for discerning business event organisers.
“The multiculturalism and diversity of the city is what makes Sydney. This has influenced the food, culture and nightlife in a very unique way,”
Dan Hong
Executive Chef, Mr Wong
The menu at Mr Wong is inspired by Cantonese cuisine, and Hong draws inspiration from the flavours of the city, and local neighbourhoods that offer authentic dishes and experiences. “[I love] Cabramatta and the suburbs surrounding because there’s a big Vietnamese community and great Vietnamese cooking,” he explains. “I live in [the inner-city area of] Haymarket so I spend a lot of time eating locally – mostly Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Korean food. Every now and then I like to go to the Lidcombe, Auburn [and] Lakemba areas for authentic Middle Eastern food.”
When it comes to choosing Mr Wong for a business event, Hong believes its electric atmosphere sets it apart. “It’s one of those places that you can come to for any occasion,” he says. “It’s a combination of great Chinese food, a great wine list, good service in an atmosphere that’s very unique [being] a former nightclub that you can only get through via an alleyway.”
Mr Wong offers business event organisers great variety and outstanding service. The venue is split across two levels and can be found at 3 Bridge Lane, Sydney. It offers organisers the flexibility to seat an intimate gathering with a tailored menu, or a corporate function of up to 240 people.
Craft brewing culture
Sydney’s craft beer and spirits movement created a thirst for locally made drinks, which has seen a spike in the number of venues sporting boutique beers and spirits. According to Richard Adamson, the co-founder and chief brewer at Young Henrys, this unflinching support for the city’s creative community – from the arts and music to food and drink – is what makes Sydney so special.
Based in the inner-city neighbourhood of Newtown, Adamson explains that Young Henry’s is in a part of Sydney.
“that has a whole range of new great music venues, it’s got a vibrant visual arts scene, so [we are] right in the mix there in terms of where the creatives sort of work and play. Our reason for being is the music and arts scene and working with the great venues and bars we have in Sydney.”
Richard Adamson
Co-Founder and Chief Brewer at Young Henrys
For Adamson, using his brewery to foster a creative, welcoming atmosphere is part of what makes his job so special – and a great place for those seeking a laidback location for their next staff event, eclectic brand launch or other corporate function. “It is a place for individuals and people to express themselves,” he says. “It isn’t pretentious and it’s a place where anyone can feel comfortable and hang out and enjoy. If you like good music and love a drink, it’s definitely the place for you.”
With so many spaces now stocking Young Henrys beers and spirits, Adamson likes to think that there’s no better place to be than Sydney when it comes to venues and variety. “You’ve got a beautiful location and you've got the cultural aspect … Sydney competes on that level, as well as having great beaches, the harbour, the mountains, we've got beauty and creative elements as well.”
The Young Henrys brewery can be found at 76 Wilford Street, Newtown. The venue is open for corporate bookings of all sizes. Its unique atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for creative companies looking for an event space with authentic street style.
