In terms of new dining developments, Brisbane has recently been hogging the limelight. But Sydney is ready to reaffirm its position as a leading innovator, revealing a new multi-million dollar dining precinct perched on the edge of its famed harbour.

The $32 million Campbell’s Stores development was first discussed late last year and will see a slew of heritage-listed buildings in The Rocks be reborn into a foodie haven. While Italian restaurateur Nino Zoccali will no longer be involved in the ambitious new eating hub, there are an array of other multi-cultural fine diners (most boasting views of the Opera House) that should still tempt you to the precinct.

Among these is stand-out Japanese venture the near-300 seater Ura San. The sleek new eatery hopes to set a new benchmark for Japanese dining in Sydney and will be manned by much-lauded executive chef Nobuyuki Ura. Ura (or Ura San as he is known) is a man with plenty of experience up his sleeve – 35 years in fact, many of which he spent as head chef of Merivale’s sushi e.

Focused around the Japanese philosophy of shokunin (a dedication to craftsmanship and mastery), Ura San will serve a traditional omakase menu to guests. This means what you eat will be at the whim of Ura and his team, who will craft dishes from an open bar, where traditional and modern techniques will be merged.

“The Omakase experience is never the same, and the element of surprise involved makes the style of eating highly fulfilling for guests who get to share in an intimate sensory experience where they can enjoy the artistry and flavours of Japanese cuisine,” Ura explains. “We want people to be able to take their time and savour everything; from the food and the space, to their interactions with the chefs, so that they leave with a deeper appreciation of Japanese generosity and hospitality.”

Matching drinks naturally provides plenty of opportunities to indulge in cravings for Japanese sake and whisky, though there’s also Japanese-inspired cocktails and a wine list with a preference for Australian drops available.

While Ura San is the first offering from father and son hospitality duo Eddie and Bill Younes, the space itself is no small feat. Designed by Lauren Cohen of Altis Architects, in collaboration with the hospitality consultancy and design firm The Eatery Group, the restaurant caters to up to 280 guests. The original heritage structure of the mid-nineteenth century warehouse in which it sits remains intact, but inside is a foray into Japanese design. The main dining area runs across five bays, seating 217 guests, but those who are after something more casual will be able to enjoy a nibble at the accompanying bar and lounge, which caters up to 60.

Ura San will open in mid-2019, with more information to be announced in due course.

Ura San
Campbell’s Stores, Level 2, Bays 4-8, 7 – 27 Circular Quay West, The Rocks.
urasan.com.au