Word is Melbourne venue The Stokehouse is a contender to run a bistro-style operation at the Sydney Opera House's Bennelong site.
Stokehouse owner Frank van Haandel couldn't be reached for comment, but at least one member of his staff has an intimate knowledge of Sydney and its dining habits. Group general manager Anthony Musarra is originally a Sydney boy who garnered a sizeable collection of awards as a chef in Sydney before relocating to Victoria.
Indeed, there is a strong Melbourne flavour to the Bennelong wannabes. Melbourne chef Shannon Bennett's name has also been bandied around as interested in the site. Bennett, who runs the fine-dining Vue de Monde, is also experienced at the more casual end of the market.
There is also talk that Bill Granger is among those to tender for the site.
Read more at goodfood.com.au
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