Icebergs chef Monty Koludrovic swaps Sydney for Byron Bay

Sydney is losing one of its most likeable and influential chefs.

Monty Koludrovic, the executive chef at Icebergs Dining Room, is packing up his knife kit at the end of the year.

Koludrovic confirmed the talk swirling around Sydney eat streets in recent weeks.

"I've (have) never resigned from a job I love so much," he says.

"We were talking today about the future of the place and the succession plan and I actually got pangs of jealousy … I feel blessed to have grown into this place, but it feels like the right time to leave."

Koludrovic is going out on top after a six-year stint. Icebergs recently nabbed another two hats while The Dolphin, which he also oversees, is tracking well and has built a reputation as a staging post for visiting talent.

And the next destination for every second chef contemplating their next move? "We're moving to Byron Bay for the summer," he says.

Restaurateur Maurice Terzini says Icebergs and The Dolphin have already settled head chefs, which takes the pressure off him to find an immediate replacement.

"I've loved working with Monty. We're sad to lose him but excited for what's in store for him in the future. He's an incredible Australian chef."