Flora, nestled in the heart of Newtown, Sydney, has been turning heads since its opening earlier this year with a bold celebration of Australian produce.
Known for its thoughtful, plant-driven dishes, this charming restaurant has quickly become a haven for food lovers. Now, under the leadership of talented Head Chef Måns Engberg, Flora is entering an exciting new chapter that promises to delight even more palates.
From Tuesday, 22 July, Flora’s menu will evolve, moving beyond its vegetarian beginnings to feature an expanded selection of dishes that hero the best of Australian produce from both land and sea. The result? An experience that’s as generous as it is innovative, a perfect reflection of the restaurant’s original ethos and culinary creativity.
A Journey Rooted in Australian Excellence
When Flora first opened its doors, the goal was simple yet ambitious—to shine a light on seasonal Australian ingredients and the local farmers, growers, and suppliers who bring them to life. Its vegetarian menu, filled with vibrant, plant-forward creations, became an instant favourite, resonating with diners seeking thoughtful, ingredient-centred dining.
The restaurant’s devotion to fresh, local produce remains unwavering. This next evolution makes room for an even greater range of flavours, welcoming the opportunity to celebrate high-quality seafood and other seasonal ingredients. For the Flora team, this shift is less about leaving behind their roots and more about fully exploring the rich diversity of Australian produce.
Måns Engberg Takes the Helm
Flora’s new chapter unfolds under the expert guidance of Head Chef Måns Engberg, whose impressive culinary pedigree spans some of the most respected kitchens in the world. Having honed his craft at renowned establishments like Au Passage in Paris and local gems like Saint Peter and Kiln in Sydney, Måns brings an exciting blend of international experience and Australian sensibility to Flora’s kitchen.
Måns is no stranger to the neighbourhood either, as he is also at the helm of Mister Grotto next door. His passion for thoughtful cooking and his respect for top-notch ingredients align seamlessly with Flora’s vision. The new menu he has crafted is a testament to his creativity and dedication, delivering an experience that is as seasonal and ingredient-focused as ever.
Say Hello to Flora’s New Menu
Food lovers can look forward to an expanded menu that remains true to Flora’s core values while introducing exciting new options. Dishes will spotlight some of the finest local ingredients, prepared with flair and precision.
Highlights of the new offerings include:
- Roast Bannockburn Chicken stuffed with mushroom farce, served alongside glazed turnips and a pennyweight oloroso sauce.
- Leeks Vinaigrette paired with spanner crab and delicate quail eggs.
- Potato and Ricotta Gnocchi enriched with Mussett Farm mushrooms, parmesan cream, and a generous topping of chopped truffle.
For those who loved Flora’s original vegetarian focus, don’t worry—it’s not going anywhere. A dedicated vegetarian set menu will continue to sit proudly alongside the main menu, offering a stunning array of plant-based dishes for those seeking a purely vegetarian dining experience. Vegans will also feel welcome, as the restaurant can cater for plant-based diners with advance notice. This dual approach ensures that everyone can savour something delicious at Flora.
Drinks Designed to Delight
Flora’s commitment to showcasing the best of Australian produce extends to its drinks menu, which has also been reimagined. The beverage program now features an inspired selection of all-Australian wines, spirits, and vermouths. Guests can enjoy unique cocktails like:
- The House Martini, made with sheep’s whey vodka and infused sourdough crusts.
- Kevlar, a luscious blend of brown butter-washed brandy and honey cream.
- A playful twist on a classic, with the Macadamia and Tonka Bean Espresso Martini, featuring Archie Rose whisky and Loggerhead espresso.
This carefully curated drinks list has been designed to complement the new dishes, creating a truly immersive dining experience.
A New Focus on Lunch and Dinner
To give their team the time and space to perfect Flora’s offerings, the restaurant has decided to refocus its operations, shifting away from breakfast service. Instead, Flora will now open its doors for dinner Tuesdays through Sundays and lunch on weekends. This refined schedule reflects their commitment to excellence in every dish.
Join Flora on This New Adventure
The evolution of Flora is an exciting moment not only for the restaurant but for Newtown’s vibrant dining scene. With Måns Engberg at the helm, a menu that celebrates the finest Australian produce, and a continued commitment to exceptional hospitality, Flora is poised to remain a destination of choice for diners near and far.
Whether you’re craving the comforting flavours of roast Bannockburn chicken, the creative brilliance of a vegetarian tasting menu, or an innovative cocktail that sparks your imagination, Flora invites you to be part of this new chapter. Beginning Tuesday, 22 July, the restaurant welcomes you to savour the bounty of Australia in every bite and sip.
Find Flora in Newtown, 206 Australia Street, Newtown, Sydney