Talk about déjà vu. After a seven-year hiatus, Lotus has returned to Potts Point with original chef Dan Hong at the helm. Those looking to relive good times past will be able to do just that, with many of the restaurants signature dishes reinstated alongside a new retro fit-out.

The menu is set to parade Hong’s greatest hits, including his Lotus cheeseburger, made from a brisket, chuck and dry-aged beef fat patty, as well as his hot fudge sundae, served with a salty caramel sauce, raspberries and honeycomb. This time around, however, they’ll be competing with newbies like black truffle grilled cheese toasties and Frosty Fruit granita with coconut sorbet.

Lotus’s cocktail bar returns with a punchy drinks list curated by Colin Tam and Sam Egerton. Cocktails are the focus, with a list that includes a rebooted Lotus martini, made with Zubrowska vodka with, peach schnapps, apple juice and passionfruit, alongside a splash of new offerings.

The pop-up space channels the 70s glamour of the original venue through mirrored ceilings, chocolate carpet and a vintage floral sofa, with low chairs upholstered in luxurious velvet. The original onyx bar has also been lovingly restored.

Lotus has returned to its original home at 22 Challis Ave, Potts Point. It opens Tue-Sat, 4pm–12am and Sun 1pm–9pm, from October 19, 2019 for a limited time only. For more details or to book, head to merivale.com/venues/lotus.