As we approach the holidays, restaurants in Sydney are being booked out for Christmas lunches and dinners. Here is a list of our favourites where the design is just as good as the food with or without the turkey..

The Grounds of Alexandria

With a wholesome approach to food and design, the Grounds of Alexandria has become a Sydney cafe staple. A former pie factory, the fit-out provides an inviting contemporary spin whilst maintaining the integrity of the former warehouse. 

7A/2 Huntley St Alexandria NSW 2015

(image by Michael Wee)

Mr Wong

Mr Wong’s interiors instantly creates a mise-en-scene of 1930s Shanghai with its jazz music and striking colonial-style furnishing. An incarnation of Tank nightclub, the dark timber floors and existing structural elements prove to complement the new additions including blue cement tiles and a mural of a period-specific Asian lady. The traditional Cantonese themed food adds the final touch for complete immersion into old Shanghai. 

3 Bridge Lane Sydney, NSW 2000

(image by Paul Gosney)

The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room

The former Brooklyn Hotel is transformed into a New York-inspired hospitality venue encouraging patrons to feel at home with communal dining tables and clustered stools. The  interior uses indoor plants to create an intimate setting, with large street-facing windows recreating a stoop-like people watching experience. Watch out for the occasional $1 oyster treats. 

225 George St Sydney, NSW 2000

(image by Murray Fredericks)

Adriano Zumbo Patisserie

A real life mini Willy Wonka factory is invoked in the design of this sugar patisserie. Well known for the unique macaron flavours, Zumbo’s latest instalment uses a ‘dessert train’ to add to the intrigue of this quirky and colourful venue. 

Shop 1 Cafe Court, The Star, 80 Pyrmont St Pyrmont, NSW 2009

(image by Murray Fredericks)

Mejico

Mejico has successfully captured the essence of a Mexican canteen whilst avoiding all the cliches of the culture. It has a predominantly neutral palette with touches of vibrant colours from the occasional item of furniture or from the food itself. Bold graphics on both the walls and floors provide a high level of energy perfectly complementing the mix of chillis and peppers. 

105 Pitt St, Sydney 2000

(image by Juicy Design)

This year, instead of buying a stock standard Christmas tree, or decorating your home with ornaments and festive decor purchased from a local store - think about mixing it up with something more crafty. These alternative out of the box tree ideas will add a fun and stylish vibe to your home this holiday.

#1 Wireframe and Globe Lights Christmas Tree

Spare and modern, this tree alternative tucks into any corner and doubles as a stylish lamp.

#2 Camera Tripod Christmas Tree

For the photographers out there, check out this clever centerpiece using your camera tripod.

#3 Knick-Knack Wall Christmas Tree

What better way to show off meaningful photos, jewellery and trinkets by hanging them together like art? This can be made with useless (but pretty items) collected over the years.

#4 Stick in Jar Christmas Tree

Keep it simple.

#5 Book Stack Christmas Tree

Don’t throw out this year’s uni textbooks or old encyclopaedias. Not only will you look well read, but you’ll be able to play a mean game of Jenga afterwards.

#6 Mountain Dew Cans Christmas Tree

Just another reason to stock up on VB…

#7 Wine Cork Christmas Tree

…or if you prefer wine.

#8 Dry Wood Christmas Tree 

Not only is this a green alternative, but it inspires you to get your craft on.

#9 Tempting Tasting Tannenbaums Christmas Tree

This is one delicious show-stopper. Diet starts…next year…

#10 Balloon Christmas Tree

A very light alternative, and easy to clean up!

#11 Hanging Mobile Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are great, but floating, abstact Christmas trees? All kinds of amazing.

#12 Ladder Christmas Tree

Don’t know what to do with that spare ladder? Now you do.