By James Atkinson
Sydney pub group Solotel and chef Matt Moran will fight to retain their Opera Bar contract in an upcoming tender.
The Sydney Opera House Trust recently called for expressions of interest from "experienced, creative food and beverage operators" to operate the lower concourse bar and restaurant at the Opera House.
The Trust said the EOI process aimed to attract innovative and creative approaches to additional opportunities offered by the venue, such as the activation of spaces at its north and south ends, and a refresh of the fitout, furniture and shade structures.
"Respondents must be able to demonstrate that they have a strong track record of running a large-scale, successful licensed bar and restaurant business in a complex operating and regulatory environment," the tender documents state.
A Solotel spokeswoman said that in partnership with Matt Moran and MorSul, the pub group had transformed Opera Bar into Australia’s premiere hospitality venue, since its inception 13 years ago.
"This is reflected by its popularity with both Sydneysiders and tourists as well as media accolades and numerous awards," she said.
"The partnership will be submitting an expression of interest for Opera Bar to continue its involvement at the lower concourse of the Sydney Opera House."
No decisions yet: Merivale
Justin Hemmes' Merivale Group is also believed to be vying for the contract.
"We’re always look for opportunities as you know but we won’t be making a decision until we review the tender documents in great detail," a Merivale spokeswoman told TheShout.
The full tender documents are available here.