Powerbrokers and celebrities farewell iconic Sydney restaurants
Sydney’s political and media elite gathered at King Street Wharf last week to farewell The Malaya, as the much-loved Asian restaurant prepares to relocate after 23 years at its waterfront site.
The guest list for the final Friday lunch read like a who’s who, featuring 2GB Breakfast host Ben Fordham, Channel Nine’s Richard Wilkins, former federal treasurer Joe Hockey and former New South Wales Police Commissioner Mick Fuller.
The family-run institution, which has operated for more than 60 years, will serve its famed beef rendang and signature dishes again from April, when it reopens at Grosvenor Place on George Street in the central business district.
Another notable venue also bid farewell. Bar Vincent, the Darlinghurst bistro opened in 2019 by Sarah Simm and Andy Logue, held one of its final services on Friday. The neighbourhood favourite has earned a reputation as a chef’s destination, quietly building a loyal following in Sydney’s dining scene.
From April 1, Bar Vincent will change hands to the team behind Bar Copains, another celebrated wine bar. Husband and wife duo Nathan and Sali Sasi, together with hospitality veteran Morgan McGlone, are set to take the reins.
McGlone has a personal connection to the venue, having celebrated his 50th birthday at Bar Vincent and enjoyed his final meal there before the onset of the COVID-19 lockdowns, describing it as his “favourite venue in Sydney”.
“We intend to do justice to the venue, and not change many things,” said McGlone, who will keep the modern Italian menu the same, but bulk out the wine list. An online booking component will also be implemented, along with plans for outdoor dining.
“We want to respect what we’ve inherited because it’s pretty good.”
Jonathan Jackson, 31st March 2025
