URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated Grandfather’s Chinese restaurant is officially opening tonight in Sydney’s CBD, bringing late-night dining options to the city! The venue, from the renowned team behind Clam Bar, Neptune’s Grotto, and Pellegrino 2000, aims to serve supper until 1 AM, offering a tantalizing selection of dishes and cocktails.
Located at the corner of Pitt Street and Angel Place, the restaurant opens its doors on August 20, 2025, just in time for those craving late-night spring rolls and live seafood. Co-owner Andy Tyson states that while they aren’t trying to replace the iconic Golden Century, they are dedicated to providing a vibrant “late-night Sydney option.”
Initially, Grandfather’s will serve dinner this week, with plans to extend hours next week. A delicious yum cha lunch service is set to begin on September 3. According to Tyson, the restaurant features a “dark, moody” atmosphere inspired by late-night New York vibes, complete with distinctive décor including a black and red zig-zag carpet.
As for the menu, expect a fusion of Guangdong and Sichuan influences. Dishes like crisp-skinned pigeon, char siu pork, and scallop spring rolls will be featured alongside unique offerings such as “mouth numbing prawns” and “husband and wife salad” with veal tongue and crispy tripe. Tyson mentions that the “strange flavour cold cut chicken” has already become a crowd favorite during pre-opening tastings.
The name “Grandfather’s” honors chef Michael Clift‘s Chinese grandfather, whose passion for food profoundly shaped his culinary journey. Clift emphasizes, “I think China has the most diverse and historic cuisine in the world,” asserting its status as the “mother of all cuisines.”
The restaurant boasts a 140-seat capacity and features visually striking seafood tanks filled with tropical fish. While there is live seafood, Tyson explains that it won’t be on display, allowing for a more serene dining experience without the chaos of wrangling produce on the dining room floor.
Diners can look forward to an extensive wine list, heavily focused on rieslings, as well as a cocktail menu featuring creative twists on classics like the “Sesame Sazerac” and “Green Melon Negroni.”
This opening marks a significant addition to Sydney’s nightlife, enhancing the culinary landscape with a fresh late-night dining experience. Be sure to visit Grandfather’s for an unforgettable late-night feast starting tonight!
For real-time updates, visit their website at grandfathers.com.
