Diners know the deal at Sydney’s iconic Quay restaurant by now: bookings open on a six-monthly basis on the first day of each month. So you can imagine the surprise when, come November 1^st, every single time slot in April was already showing as unavailable online.

We understand the demand, though. The outstanding food, beautiful dining room and world-class views of course draw the crowds. But this still seems unusual.

An email via the online contact form generated a response explaining that the bookings for April were being delayed for a few weeks ‘due to largely external circumstances’. Then an offer to leave your details on the waiting list for your requested date so the restaurant can ‘be in contact when we can make this booking, or otherwise.’ A call to the reservations line gave the same scripted response.

It could be that the rumours of a major renovation will see Quay close its doors for a period, with details expected to be confirmed with the Port Authority over the next week.

The Fink Group, which counts Quay in its impressive portfolio, declined to confirm or deny the rumours, with much secrecy surrounding any announcements.

So is the award-winning restaurant in for a major facelift? Watch this space for more.