The Star Sydney is getting a grand new diner to take the place of its star restaurant, Momofuku Seiobo, which closed in June last year.

ELE by Federico and Karl will be led by head chefs Federico Zanellato (Lumi Bar & Dining) and Karl Firla (Oscillate Wildly, Est, Marque).

The new fine diner will be inspired by the elements – earth, fire, air, water – and will offer an immersive experience that engages the senses. Beyond touch, smell and taste, dishes will also be accompanied with visual and sound elements, including projections and images, designed to take diners on a sensory journey.

The venue will be divided into three distinct spaces, including a bar, dining room and chef’s table. Each space will have its own menu, which will focus on Australian ingredients and technique-driven dishes.

It’s not the first time Zanellato and Firla have worked together. The two top chefs have previously collaborated on Italian eatery Leo and its cafe and bar space Picco Leo, which opened in Angel Place in 2020.

Karl Firla is excited to work with Zanellatto once again: “This is something we have dreamed of creating for some time, so it is incredible to finally see the wheels in motion,” he said.

“Tasked with ushering the site into a new chapter, we came together and asked what new elements could we utilise and how could we deliver something more than just food?”

Federico Zanellato said that the restaurant would be a new and exciting way for the duo to showcase their food. “When you go to a restaurant or have an experience in fine dining, you leave all of your problems and thoughts behind to immerse and focus on the experience,” he said.

“Having the projections, sounds and images around the restaurant is just another way for us to connect deeper with diners so they can immerse themselves further.”

More details to come. 

Related food news: A new waterfront omakase restaurant has opened on Sydney Harbour