Curtis Stone to Lead Waldorf Astoria Sydney’s Debut Dining Scene in 2027

Sydney’s dining landscape is gearing up for a seismic shift. In a monumental homecoming that bridges global refinement with local terroir, Melbourne-born chef Curtis Stone has officially signed on to spearhead the culinary direction for Waldorf Astoria Sydney. Scheduled to open its doors in 2027 at the iconic One Circular Quay address, the landmark property marks the official entry of the legendary hotel brand into Australia—and provides the stage for Stone’s very first brick-and-mortar restaurant project on Australian soil.

For a chef who built an international empire in Los Angeles with Michelin-starred triumphs like Maude and Gwen, returning home to execute a project of this scale represents far more than an expansion. It stands as a deeply emotional creative chapter, crafted right on the edge of one of the world’s most breathtaking natural harbours.

A Distinctly Australian Story on Circular Quay

Rising above One Circular Quay under the ownership and development of Fiveight, Waldorf Astoria Sydney aims to redefine luxury hospitality in the Southern Hemisphere. Rather than importing a standard international template, the property is weaving native Australian character directly into its core through Stone’s vision.

Stone will conceive and execute two entirely original dining concepts exclusive to the hotel. Expect a hyper-seasonal celebration of homegrown producers, indigenous ingredients, and the laid-back yet polished hospitality culture that defines modern Australian dining.

"Coming to Australia to create something of this scale is incredibly meaningful for me. These dining experiences are deeply personal projects, inspired by the producers, seasons, and hospitality culture I grew up with," said Curtis Stone. "To partner with Waldorf Astoria Sydney and bring these ideas to life overlooking one of the world's most spectacular harbours is both an honour and a milestone in my career."

A Storied Heritage Meets Harbourfront Ambition

Waldorf Astoria’s DNA has been inextricably linked with groundbreaking gastronomy for over a century. From the grand halls of Waldorf Astoria New York—the birthplace of 24-hour room service, the Waldorf Salad, Eggs Benedict, Red Velvet Cake, and the Rob Roy cocktail—the brand has consistently shaped how the world eats and drinks in style.

That legacy continues across the globe through active collaborations with culinary royalty:

• La Pergola by Heinz Beck (3-star Michelin) – Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
• Sushi Nakazawa by Daisuke Nakazawa (1-star Michelin) – Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
• Au Trianon by Gordon Ramsay (1-star Michelin) – Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace Versailles
• Ling Long by Jason Liu (1-star Michelin) – Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
• Hokklo by Du Guojin (1-star Michelin) – Waldorf Astoria Xiamen
• Zijin Mansion by James Wang (1-star Michelin) – Waldorf Astoria Beijing
• The Ledge by Dave Pynt – Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi & Waldorf Astoria Bali (coming soon)
• Coreus by Clare Smyth & Café Boulud by Daniel Boulud – Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch (coming soon)
• Yaari by Garima Arora & JG KL by Jean-Georges Vongerichten – Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur (coming soon)

Bringing Curtis Stone into this illustrious fold signals a bold statement for Sydney’s global dining profile.

"Waldorf Astoria Sydney represents a defining moment as we introduce the brand to Australia. To work with a chef of Curtis’ calibre makes this especially meaningful," stated Marlene Poynder, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Sydney. "Together, we're creating a destination where exceptional hospitality, world-class dining, and perhaps one of the world's most remarkable harbourfront settings come together to deliver an unforgettable guest experience."

Candice D’Cruz, Vice President of Luxury Brands, Asia Pacific at Hilton, echoed the enthusiasm for this Australian debut:

"Culinary excellence has always been integral to Waldorf Astoria, bringing together exceptional talent, iconic destinations, and a deep sense of place. Working closely with our owners, we curate collaborations that connect guests to each destination. Partnering with a globally renowned Australian chef like Curtis Stone for our Australian debut reflects our commitment to creating unforgettable dining experiences that are unmistakably Waldorf Astoria."

With opening set for 2027, food enthusiasts and luxury travellers alike have every reason to keep their eyes firmly fixed on Circular Quay. Sydney's fine dining story is about to write its most exciting chapter yet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When will Waldorf Astoria Sydney open?

A: Waldorf Astoria Sydney is scheduled to open in 2027 at One Circular Quay in Sydney, Australia.

Q: Is Waldorf Astoria Sydney the first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Australia?

A: Yes, Waldorf Astoria Sydney will mark the luxury brand’s very first hotel property in Australia.

Q: Who owns Waldorf Astoria Sydney?

A: Waldorf Astoria Sydney is owned and developed by Australian property group Fiveight.

Q: Who is Curtis Stone in relation to Waldorf Astoria Sydney?

A: Curtis Stone is a Melbourne-born, internationally acclaimed chef who will lead the culinary vision for Waldorf Astoria Sydney’s signature dining programme, marking his first restaurant project in Australia.

Q: What is Curtis Stone’s role at Waldorf Astoria Sydney?

A: Curtis Stone will shape and lead the entire culinary direction for the hotel, introducing two original restaurant concepts created exclusively to showcase peak Australian produce and hospitality.