Bennett in the mix to take the stage at Opera House

Melbourne chef Shannon Bennett's name is being bandied around, along with the usual Sydney suspects, as a potential replacement for chef Guillaume Brahimi at the Opera House.

Last week Brahimi decided not to re-tender for the Guillaume at Bennelong site after the Opera House declared its preference for a bistro-style operation.

Bennett, who runs the fine-dining Vue de Monde, is also experienced at the more casual end of the market.

The Opera House refused to comment on tenders lodged last week for the restaurant site, saying an announcement on the successful applicant will be made later in the year.

Brahimi says his focus is on the restaurant as it moves towards its closure at the end of the year, not who will replace him.Word on the street is he is already being courted by one arts-based Sydney venue, and has long been interested in buying a pub.

James Packer's green light last week to proceed with development at Barangaroo is also good news for Brahimi given his links with Crown.