The world-famous Sydney Opera House has begun a tender process looking for leading operators to manage its popular harbourside venues, currently known as Opera Bar and House Canteen.
It is being billed as a “once-in-a-decade opportunity” to reimagine the venues and strengthen the Opera House’s reputation as a vibrant, inclusive dining destination.
Located on the iconic site’s Lower Concourse, boasting spectacular harbour views, the venues are some of the best-known and most frequented in the Sydney CBD, drawing a broad mix of local and international visitors.
Opera Bar and House Canteen are currently run by Solotel, which has been operating at the Opera House for 20 years.
The two venues are now being tendered together, with a single operator to be appointed to run distinct but complementary offerings, for a ten-year term.
The first stage is a competitive Expressions of Interest process, closing Wednesday, 30 October. Documentation on the EOI is available (here) on the Buy NSW Tender website, along with an Information Pack.
The EOI calls for operators to show they have the “capability and strategic alignment” required to deliver on the core proposition.
After this will come an assessment process, and shortlisted Respondents will be invited to participate in a more detailed second stage.
There are mandatory requirements, which include submitting information on risks and actions taken to address modern slavery in the business, and social procurement guidance that includes the mandatory submission of quarterly reporting.
The successful Respondent will be announced mid-2025, and will be expected to be open for business before the summer season, in late 2025.
Aiming to cater to both existing demand and new audiences, the SOH administrators tout an ambition for the Opera House to be somewhere for everyone.
“This is an incredible opportunity for experienced hospitality leaders and we anticipate a high level of interest,” states Jade McKellar, Chief Customer Officer.
“The opportunity coincides with the Opera House’s new Everyone’s House strategy, setting out our ambition to create a place where the whole community feels welcome.”
