Following a NSW Government tender process dating back to September 2024, Applejack has been awarded the contract to operate Opera Bar and House Canteen.
The hospitality company operates existing bars, pubs and cafes across Sydney, including The Taphouse, Forrester’s and upmarket restaurants Bopp & Tone and RAFI.
The new agreement brings to a close the 24-year tenure at the venues for operator Solotel, Matt Moran and general manager John Gallas.
“We’re thrilled to have appointed Applejack to run the Opera House’s popular harbourside venues, Opera Bar and House Canteen, for the next 10 years,” says Jade McKellar, chief customer officer, Sydney Opera House.
“We were delighted by the exceptional standard of the submissions received, with Applejack’s detailing a compelling, vibrant vision for this community space that thousands of locals and visitors enjoy every year.
“There’s nothing quite like the Opera House, and I’m looking forward to working with Applejack to make the most of this tremendous opportunity.”
Sydney Opera House has thanked Solotel, Moran and Gallas for their successful running of the venues for 24 years.
“The Solotel team has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists for decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney’s hospitality scene,” it says in a statement.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered together during this long-standing partnership.
“We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy.”
The new contract with Applejack commences from mid-September 2025 at Opera Bar, with House Canteen changing hands in mid-November 2025.
“This is a dream come true for our entire team,” says Applejack co-founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts in a statement.
“To be entrusted as custodians of venues at Sydney Opera House – the world’s most iconic cultural stage – is humbling and inspiring.
“We can’t wait to share the exciting new concepts we’ve developed for locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location.
“Our gratitude goes to Solotel for their excellent stewardship, and we’re looking forward to building on that foundation with genuine innovation and care.”
Solotel will continue to run both venues until Applejack takes over.
Refurbishments of both venues will commence in 2026.
Photo at top: Sydney Opera House (supplied).
