Big name foodies head south to Cronulla
Sydney’s Cronulla has solidified its status as the city’s unexpected foodie hotspot of 2024, with yet another notable name joining its culinary scene.
The team behind The Grounds has opened Pippi’s at Calico Marino, adding to a growing lineup of popular venues like Bobby’s, Benny’s, Pino’s, and Summer Salt to the beachside destination.
This new addition complements a wave of high-profile openings in the area.
RJ Lines from One Penny Hill brought Benny’s to Gunnamatta Bay, Matteo Margiotta launched a Cronulla version of his Alexandria restaurant with Pino Vino e Cucina al Mare, and the Sydney Restaurant Group took over Summer Salt, a waterside favourite.
Tristian Rosier, of Surry Hills’ Jane and Arthur, also recently opened Fior in nearby Gymea. The trend is clear: if you’re setting up in Cronulla, naming your restaurant after someone seems to be the key.
The Grounds’ latest venture, Pippi’s, opened quietly last week after two years of planning, despite the brand’s well-known reputation.
Sydney Restaurant Group’s move into Cronulla, through the management of Summer Salt, underscores the area’s new appeal for waterfront dining. Brothers Daniel and Perry Drakopoulos, Shire natives, embraced a homecoming of sorts when they took over from former owners Karl and Brooke Jensen in February. Since then, the local dining scene has thrived, giving residents more high-quality options right on their doorstep—no bridge-crossing required.
“The same principle of what happened in Bondi is happening in Cronulla,” Drakopolous said.
“The appetite for the Shire has spiked and it’s created healthy competition which has turned it into a positive foodie hub.”
Drakopolous called Summer Salt “one of the most beautiful locations in Sydney.”
“When we first came in we didn’t change menu — we just found what customers wanted,” he said.
“And that’s amazing value for money, decent portions, and a good time. Gone are the days of 12-course degustation.”
Jonathan Jackson, 13th November 2024
