Feeding the animals is permitted (at least, the bipedal ape kind) at new Taronga Wildlife Retreat restaurant Me-Gal, which has opened to the public for the very first time.

Diners no longer need to be a guest of the retreat to enjoy the restaurant’s unique setting surrounded by native bushland and within earshot of animal roaring and trumpeting. The glass-enclosed dining room boasts spectacular views across the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the sparkling city skyline.

Me-Gal takes its name from the Cammeraigal word for saltwater, referencing the surrounding harbourside shoreline.

Chef Stefan Schröder’s Mediterranean-style menu is designed for grazing, with options for both carnivores and herbivores.

Native ingredients and sustainable produce star on the menu, which includes ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers with macadamia crumble, Skull Island tiger prawns with lime labneh and Flinders Island lamb with heirloom carrots.

General Manager, Hoanh Giang: “When crafting the offering for Me-Gal we drew inspiration from its unique location and the Australian native fauna that surrounds it. An unexpected dining destination on the lower North Shore, the focus at Me-Gal is on sustainable dining, a passion we share with our local community of producers. We wanted to develop a destination dining experience which is aligned with the Wildlife Retreat experience”.

Slake your thirst with something from the drinks menu. Group Sommelier, Louella Mathews has created the wine program, which focuses on local vegan, organic, biodynamic and sustainable wines. There will also be a selection of iconic Aussie producers, with drops by Henschke, Penfolds, Leeuwin Estate and more. Cocktails will revolve around native ingredients and local spirits.

Me-Gal
2A Bradleys Head Road, Mosman
Enter via the Taronga Wildlife Retreat
Dinner Mon – Sun, Lunch Thu – Sun 
02 9932 4883
megal-mosman.com.au