The iconic Cruise Bar & Restaurant has reopened its doors following an extensive renovation, reaffirming itself as one of Sydney’s premier waterfront destinations.
Positioned at the Overseas Passenger Terminal with views that showcase the Sydney Opera House in all its glory, the harbourside institution now blends modern sophistication with an air of effortless fun. The transformation, courtesy of award-winning design firm Luchetti Krelle, has elevated Cruise to new levels of style and refinement.
A menu inspired by Australia
Helmed by Head Chef Han Chen (formerly of Amare and Felix), the revamped menu takes diners on a culinary exploration of Australia’s rich native produce. Highlights include bush tomato butter mussels, pan-seared Humpty Doo barramundi with macadamia cream, and a confit duck risotto paired with butternut squash and crispy saltbush. The pièce de résistance is the Grande Cruise Seafood Tower, which brims with the country’s finest seafood, including freshly shucked Royal Miyagi oysters, scallop ceviche, and scallop mousse-filled zucchini flowers – an unparalleled indulgence.
Cocktails reimagined with native flavours
Tom Bulmer, whose credentials include Margaret and O Bar, has led Cruise’s cocktail reinvention. The drinks menu celebrates uniquely Australian botanicals with creations such as the Lilly Flower, which combines raspberry, lilly pilly, Casamigos tequila, and hibiscus, and the Afternoon Fashion, an innovative twist on the classic Old Fashioned featuring croissant-washed whisky and toasted wattleseed. Other notable concoctions include Berry in Sight, blending mulberry, bush apple, and desert lime shrub, and the refreshing Different Aspect, a mix of lemon aspen, peach sorbet, and Tanqueray Sevilla gin.
Melba’s Rooftop
Taking centre stage on the top floor is the newly introduced Melba’s Rooftop, an exclusive event space named in honour of Dame Nellie Melba. Its sunset-inspired decor and sweeping views of the harbour provide the perfect backdrop for private functions, weddings, conferences, and selective ticketed events.
Cruise, reinvented
“Sydney has changed a lot in the past decade, but there’s always been a place for a venue like Cruise,” says General Manager John Harvey. “It’s got history, it’s got views that stop you in your tracks, and now it’s got an elevated experience to match.”
Harvey goes on to explain the curated effort that has gone into creating the new Cruise experience. “From the menu to the design, every detail has been considered to craft something fresh, exciting, and uniquely Cruise. This isn’t just a comeback – it’s a statement.”
Where to find Cruise Bar & Melba’s Rooftop
Located at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay, Cruise Bar is perfectly positioned for those seeking an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience. Whether it’s for the innovative food, creative cocktails, or simply the stunning views, Cruise is certain to impress both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
For more information and to browse the full menu, visit www.cruisebar.com.au.