With a line-up of decadent Cantonese dishes and an extensive selection of tea, newly opened Jinja promises to bring a contemporary edge to The Governor Hotel in Macquarie Park. On level one of this multi-level premium venue that opened back in 2018, Jinja is the newest addition, having celebrated its opening on August 3.

Get ready to be impressed as a theme of modernity-meets-tradition is carried through the design of Jinja, which was led by prominent Sydney-based architectural firm Archebiosis.

In some respects there’s a journey through time and space, with influences drawn from historical Shanghai, colonial Hong Kong, and bang up to date with modern Beijing.

A luxe interior is focused on elegance, with Oriental wallpaper and rich chocolate parquetry floors blended with sumptuous botanical-patterned carpet and large curved custom-entry doors.

The restaurant walls are adorned with original paintings by artist Ronnie Samuels of fictional character Jinghua (AKA “Jinja”), whose backstory has been an inspiration in the design of the venue as a whole.

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There’s also serious talent in the kitchen, with chef Sebastian Tan leading the way, having previously been at Crown Sydney where he helmed Silks and Teahouse. Tan is joined by specialty chef Kushal Lama, who hails from a family lineage packed with celebrated Chinese chefs. Lama has more than 16 years under his belt and, like Tan, he counts some big hitters on his resume, including the likes of revered restaurants Hakkasan and Yauatcha.

Tan says that while diners will recognise Jinja dishes as authentically Cantonese, he’s also brought in some contemporary twists, such as melding Chinese and French culinary culture to serve dim sum that includes a sesame prawn brioche. But one of the signature dishes Tan is particularly proud of is grilled M9 wagyu with black truffle yakiniku sauce and a pumpkin puree. Live seafood is a key focus, such as Australian lobster and coral trout, which is cooked to order and served with house-made sauces like XO and Singaporean chilli.

A ceremonial tea-tasting dispensary takes pride of place in the dining room and leans on an extensive tea selection. Lovers of baijiu, said to be the world’s most-consumed spirit, won’t be disappointed with the classically driven cocktail list taking a cue from Asia.

There is also a 100+ wine list featuring international and well-established Australian classic, rare and speciality wines, high-end Champagnes and chilled reds. Using the Coravin preservation system, the team at Jinja is also ensuring that the by-the-glass list is strong.

Tan’s offering is available in the dining room, where bright neon signs announce dumpling and tea stations, and guests can grab an intimate booth, settle into plush red velvet banquettes or gather a group at high bar tables and low lounges.

There’s also a touch of the high life for those who want to go big, with private dining rooms, secret rooms hidden away behind sliding walls and even private wine rooms.

Jinja
The Governor Hotel
Level 1/9 Waterloo Rd, Macquarie Park
Wed-Sun Noon-2pm, Wed-Sat 5pm-10pm
jinja.com.au

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