The Shire’s Most Notable Foodie Openings Of 2023
Consider this your spotify wrapped of food
Hurricane’s Grill & Bar, Cronulla
As is tradition when the calendar date ticks over, it’s time to look back at the year that was. But we’re not talking noteworthy events or even Spotify Wrapped, we’re talking foodie joints - and this year, the Shire really brought it to the table (literally).
So, from chic cafes to globally-renowned gelato, these are the seven best new restaurants and foodie openings we saw in the Sutherland Shire in 2023 that have our hearts racing and our stomachs rumbling.
Best New Restaurants And Foodie Openings In The Sutherland Shire For 2023
Bobbys
We’re calling it; Bobbys may have taken the cake as both the highest anticipated opening of 2023 and the most Instagrammed venue following. Yep, we think this Mediterranean-led, seaside joint is here to stay. We don’t know whether it’s the rattan-filled designer interiors, the seafood-driven menu or the long selection of spritzes, but Bobbys has truly captured the hearts of us Shire-siders, and it’s definitely one to watch this year.
6R The Esplanade, Cronulla
Hurricanes
Hurricanes is not a newcomer to the restaurant scene, but its Cronulla base is. Inspired by our beautiful shoreline, this iteration of Tony Teixeira’s many-pronged chain diverts (only slightly) from its rep for red meat and instead ventures into fresh seafood. Equally as impressive as the food and drink offering are the interiors, designed by award-winning Luchetti Krelle, which have a sculptural, grotto-like vibe akin to Europe’s finest venues.
1/49 Gerrale Street, Cronulla
Bianchini’s
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this Cronulla fave launched it’s third venue this year as a fully-fledged restaurant with a dinner menu to match. The mainstay breakfast and lunch options still star, while their dinner creations feature a range of different share-style plates and platters, as well as a selection of wines and cocktails to be enjoyed alongside.
2/49 Gerrale Street, Cronulla
Flour
Flour is, put simply, picture perfect. Beautifully flaky croissants, nostalgic finger buns, artisan coffee and scrolls come up against earthy countertops, glossy tiles and a warm-neutral palette in an effect that is sleek, sophisticated and, well, chef’s kiss (pardon the pun). The highlight, without a doubt, is the ‘Doughroom’, which gives you a glimpse into the inner workings of the talented pastry chefs and bakers behind it all.
277 Willarong Road, Caringbah South
Anita
After many years delighting taste buds on a global scale, this much-coveted ice creamery finally landed in the Shire. La Mama del Gelato is famous for serving an expansive collection of handmade ice cream, frozen yoghurt and sorbet, and the long lines are testament to just how good they all are. Hot tip: try the ‘Pistachio Bronte’, it’s hard to beat!
2/6 Cronulla St, Cronulla
KIN
Swiftly climbing the ranks of Shire cafes, KIN in the leafy streets of Burraneer boasts an irresistible brunch and lunch menu, as well as a selection of evening bites and a specially-crafted list of wines, beers and cocktails. Created by the esteemed crew behind Cronulla’s Next Door and Sealevel Restaurant, a visit to this chic venue will leave you wanting to plan the next.
145-149 Woolooware Road, Burraneer
Johnny Gios
Whoever said the Shire doesn’t have its own Little Italy clearly hasn’t visited Johnny Gios. Unfussy but authentic, expect fast service, generous serving sizes, woodfired dough, stacks of mozzarella (obviously) and la famiglia-style meals - oh, and strictly no pineapple. This new foodie gem sits in the busy strip of shops in Kirrawee and offers takeaway only.
148 Oak Rd, Kirrawee