Solotel’s multi-level Sydney venue Barangaroo House has closed fine diner Bea to make way for a new concept.
Bea was initially spearheaded by Chef Corey Campbell, who exited in 2019, with Executive Chef Tom Haynes taking over with a revised menu that revolved around the kitchen’s wood grill.
But come 16 September, Japanese-inspired concept and vinyl bar Rekodo will take Bea’s place on level one complete with monthly playlists and resident DJs.
“At Rekōdo, we put music front and centre to create a new dining, drinking and listening experience that sounds as good as it tastes,” says Elliott Solomon, Solotel CEO.
“It’s buzzing, it’s loud, it’s fun. It’s where you can tune into new flavours, drinks and music.”
Paddy McDermott has been appointed head chef of Rekodo and will put up a menu that takes inspiration from Japanese flavours.
“I’d say we’re going for a ‘high-fidelity’ approach to the menu – familiar flavours but having a little fun in the way they’re presented,” says the chef.
Patrons will be able to make their own hand rolls or choose from kimchi and tontina taiyaki, pickled watermelon with ume, coconut and shiso or Wagtu tataki with ponzu and yolk to start.
Larger plates cover fried snapper with sweet and sour sauce and bean sprouts, monjayaki noodles and red sesame eggplant, with a dessert option heroing pandan, mango and coconut across a bruleed tamago application.
“Paddy has done a great job creating a menu … with a mix of small and larger dishes all designed to share so you can tailor it to whatever vibe you’re after,” says Co-Owner Matt Moran.
Sake is set to be big at the bar, with Pauric Kennedy selecting more than 20 options served by the glass, in a flight or across cocktails such as the Tokyo Tipple, which combines brown sugar umeshu with tangerine and elderflower tonic.
Rekodo will also have a 50-strong Japanese whisky list alongside beers and wines sourced from Australia, Europe and Japan.
The restaurant will be redesigned by H&E Architects and see room for 140 diners and the installation of a DJ stage which will be located at the front of the venue.
Rekodo is slated to open its doors from 16 September and operate Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm.
Photography Steven Woodburn
