Grounds for expansion

If you had to rate Sydney food queues, The Grounds of Alexandria (pictured) would be in medal contention.

But the pressure could soon ease, with a deal close to being inked to buy neighbour 4143Bar & Restaurant, which is owned by Flying Fish’s proprietor, Con Dedes.

Both sides confirm negotiations are advanced, The Grounds co-owner Jack Hanna is hoping to launch the new venue in two or three months.

The plan is to open the 4143 space towards The Grounds’ garden and trade at night.

Hanna says it will be a different experience to The Grounds food-wise, tied in closely with the garden. Plans to expand The Grounds to Melbourne have stalled, with an earmarked site falling through.

‘‘We have enough on our plate in Sydney; we want to make this experience better,’’ Hanna says.