Tagged: Darling Harbour

Sydney set to light up for Vivid 2019

Posted on May 15, 2019 by admin - News & Reviews

In just a few short weeks, Sydney’s night-time skyline is set to come alive with all the colour, brilliance and beauty that is Vivid 2019.

Running over three weeks, Vivid sees the city’s iconic buildings transformed into canvasses of light, while music and creative ideas abound.

Here’s an insight into what’s in store at Vivid Sydney 2019.

11 years of Vivid

This year will mark the 11th anniversary of the Vivid Sydney Festival. Running from May 24 to June 15, the events is described as “Australia’s most loved and awarded festival” bringing together “light artists, music makers and brilliant minds to share their creativity” across the city.

The harbour is a focal point for the event, lighting up from 6pm each evening, and encapsulating iconic sites such as the sails of the Sydney Opera House, and nine precincts including the Royal Botanic Garden, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, the Rocks, Luna Park, Taronga Zoo, and Chatswood.

Vivid at Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is one of the major venues for the Vivid Festival, and this year it’s set for a “space-age reboot”.

“Around Cockle Bay, mind-boggling electro-automotive super-bots have been sent to sow the seeds of a greener tomorrow. Epic in scale, the light and sound spectacle Robot SPACELand is built around a central 16m high unit, the Ecobot. After creating itself from crushed cars, it continues its endless duties crushing cars and extruding the building blocks of a new society,” Vivid.com explains.

At the Australian National Maritime Museum, proceedings will take on a slightly more marine feel, with a film about the incredible life of sharks projected onto the museum’s huge rooftop.

“Follow the shark’s journey through the oceans in three chapters: hunting, desire and renascence. On Sharks takes you inside the mind of a shark and asks us to reconsider sharks as prey, not just as predators.”

Meanwhile, Tumbalong Lights is back by popular demand, transforming Darling Harbour’s open space into an all-inclusive play area with an outer space theme.

On Friday and Saturday nights the ever-popular weekly fireworks will also be incorporated into all the light and action of Vivid at Darling Harbour.

Vivid at Barangaroo

Just a short stroll from King Street Wharf, Barangaroo is also set to play a central role in this year’s Vivid Festival.

The precinct will feature an installation called Winter Camp, where visitors will experience layers of light, sound and puppetry reflective of the land and water.

The interactive experience draws inspiration from the changing of the seasons, and invites visitors to share in the practice of hunting and gathering.

Vivid Times and Dates

Vivid Sydney will run for three weeks from May 24 until June 15. Lights switch on each night at 6pm and the city remains illuminated until 11pm.

You can learn more about the complete program for Vivid Sydney 2019 here.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

The perfect ingredients for any occasion

Posted on January 31, 2019 by admin - News & Reviews

Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebration with friends or a big bash to mark a milestone at the office, a truly memorable hospitality experience involves a blend of essential ingredients.

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and grill we are seasoned restauranteurs, who have established a stellar Sydney reputation for serving up cuisine, events and functions to suit every occasion.

Here’s an insight into the perfect ingredients for any occasion that continue to define our success…

Flavour

Imagine sumptuous seafood, succulent mains, and sensational share plates to enjoy among friends, all served with a distinctly Mediterranean twist.

This is the heart and soul of our menu at Georges, where we source the finest seasonal produce available to serve up a menu packed full of exquisite flavour.

Our menu is a nod to popular Greek flavours with a contemporary Australian influence, and it delights our clientele time and again.

We utilise traditional mouthwatering Mediterranean accompaniments like lemon, olive oil, tomato, feta and rosemary to release the fresh flavours of every meal.

Tradition and culture

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill owes much of its cooking technique and menu influence to our distinctly Greek roots.

That sees our menu heavily focused food as a celebration. Share plates, or mezze, are a feature, and banquet dining is a highlight, while our a la carte is also destined to delight.

As part of the Mediterranean tradition, many elements of the menu incorporate seafood, lamb, olives, feta and fresh produce, which are all items readily available and widely used for centuries in Greece.

Atmosphere

A true dining experience is one part food to satiate the soul, and one part a dining atmosphere to delight the senses.

We’re proud to boast an enviable reputation for both. Located at Darling Harbour, our indoor/outdoor restaurant overlooks the lively ambience of the waterfront.

From this vantage point we have the chance to witness some of Sydney’s most exciting events, but also enjoy an endless and ever-changing vista of the city’s picturesque harbour. There are the long, lazy days of summer, the twinkling lights of an autumn eve by the water, the crisp, cool colours of winter and the sparkling waterfront rejuvenation that comes with spring.

Any time of the year, George’s offers a waterfront destination that is chic, comfortable and always designed to delight.

Service

At its heart hospitality is about service. It’s about feeling warmly welcomed, well cared for and indulged in an atmosphere of relaxed surrounds.

With decades of hospitality experience, George’s Mediterranean Bar and grill is proud to offer service that complements our commitment to flavour and the welcoming ambience of our venue.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice

Saturday fireworks return to Darling Harbour

Posted on October 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Sydney Harbour is set to celebrate every weekend, with Saturday fireworks at Darling Harbour now back due to popular demand.

At 9pm each Saturday night the fireworks will light up the sky, adding further beauty and a stunning visual display to the perennially popular harbourside destination.

The move comes as Darling Harbour enjoys a transformation, courtesy of a major redevelopment that is now nearing completion.

So, let’s explore all the news and action Darling Harbour as the historic precinct enters a new era.

Fireworks action

After an 18-month hiatus, weekly fireworks are back on the agenda, kicking off at Darling Harbour each and every Saturday night.

Set down as a regular fixture from now until mid-next year, the spectacular display commences at 9pm during daylight savings time, and 8.30pm from April 13.

Organisers note Cockle Bay is the ideal destination to enjoy the weekly festivities, with the fireworks offering the perfect accompaniment to dinner or events at one of Sydney’s most glorious waterfront locations.

The fireworks join a lengthy list of regular fixtures all adding to the excitement of the harbourside destination.

The Star of the Show Ferris Wheel is also in residence until February 29, offering a simply stunning 360 degree view of the harbour from a height of 32m.

Meanwhile, the precinct is enjoying a major revamp.

Darling Harbour renovation

Touted as the “biggest renovation in the precinct’s history”, Darling Harbour has been receiving a facelift over recent years.

Tumbalong Park was the first new fixture to open, offering an expansive parkland akin to Sydney’s very own public backyard.

The International Convention Centre received a state-of-the-art overhaul and now public access areas, walkways and open spaces have offered the precinct a new lease on life.

In the meantime, a new site for the IMAX is under construction as the Ribbon Project takes shape. Once complete, the development will offer a 25-storey hotel and serviced apartment development that will provide a modern setting for the IMAX Theatre, plus retail and entertainment spaces.

The entire Darling Harbour precinct is also becoming more connected with the city, courtesy of the Darling Square project which features one of the city’s largest public squares with a wide pedestrian corridor that connects Central Station to Darling Harbour’s waterfront.

A front row seat at George’s

Darling Harbour might be changing, but popular offerings such as George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill remain a constant, providing Darling Harbour diners with a premier eatery overlooking all the action.

Whether it’s dinner, drinks and Saturday night fireworks, an after-work beverage at our weekday happy hour, or a weekend brunch with the family overlooking the water, our restaurant offers a front row seat to enjoy all the Darling Harbour action.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Eight unmissable Darling Harbour events

Posted on July 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Long renowned as a tourism precinct that serves up a smorgasbord of events, Darling Harbour is set to feature a jam-packed line-up of exciting entertainment over the coming months.

It’s an ever-changing array of activities that is set to delight the kids and adults alike. From music icons to maritime adventure, here’s eight unmissable Darling Harbour events.

Bob Dylan takes centre stage

As the creator of some of the past century’s most iconic songs, Bob Dylan has been hailed as a poet and music legend alike.

On August 18 he graces the Sydney International Convention Centre for one night only, performing a songbook that spans six decades. From seminal classic like ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’ to ‘Like a Rolling Stone’, ‘Tangled Up in Blue’ and ‘Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door’, Bob Dylan has a repertoire that includes some of the most socially, politically and culturally important songs in modern music.

When: 8pm, Saturday, August 18
Where: International Convention Centre Sydney Theatre
More information: iccsydney.com.au.

Justice League

In an experience that’s set to delight the young and the young at heart, Madam Tussaud’s will be serving up some serious justice until December 31.

This action-packed experience sees all the Justice League heroes in attendance, with a host of interactive activities to put visitors through their paces.

Come face-to-face with your favourite Justice League heroes in an action-packed adventure unlike any other.

Star alongside Justice League’s Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, Henry Cavill as Superman, Ben Affleck as Batman, and Ezra Miller as The Flash as they fight to save the world from Lex Luthor’s evil corporation, LexCorp.

Elsewhere in the city, Lex’s experiment wreaks havoc, sending a helicopter and its occupants hurtling toward the ground. You’ll have to summon all your strength and join the Super Heroes as they fight to save the world:

Help Superman lift a REAL helicopter back into the sky as onlookers cheer from the streets below.

Summon Batman with the Bat-Signal. Billowing smoke and wind reveal Batman as he’s called into battle onto the rooftop, ready to save the world.

Harness your inner Super Hero alongside Wonder Woman. One successful gauntlet blast can destroy LexCorp’s technology that has created havoc in the city.

Help The Flash by running alongside him! Once you hit ‘top speed’, effects around The Flash’s environment, including projection lighting on his suit, jump to life and electricity cracks.

When: Now until December 31
Where: Madame Tussauds Darling Harbour
More information: madametussauds.com.au

Star of the Show Ferris Wheel

Take your Darling Harbour adventure to all new heights, courtesy of the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel that has extended its stay and will now be in residence until February 2019.

Located in the Harbourside Amphitheatre, the Ferris Wheel showcases simply spectacular 360-degree views of Darling Harbour, the waterfront and Sydney.

At over 32-metres in height, the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel claims the title of the highest continuously travelling Ferris Wheel in Australia, and is open day and night.

When: Now until February 2019
Monday to Thursday: 10am – 11pm
Friday to Sunday: 10am – 11.59pm
Where: Harbourside Amphitheatre
More information: darlingharbour.com

The box that changed the world

From now until October 25, the National Maritime Museum is exploring the influence and impact of the humble shipping container with an open-air exhibition entitled The Box that Changed the World.

This bright and colourful display sees containers scattered like Lego boxes in the museum’s first outdoor installation and looks into how container shipping has shaped our modern world, changing how we live, work, eat, produce and shop.

Seen and recognised worldwide, it’s easy to take the shipping container for granted. But some say this unassuming box has done more for global trade than all of the international trade agreements signed over the last 50 years together.

When: Now until October 25
Where: Outside the Australian National Maritime Museum
More information: anmm.gov.au

53rd Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Featuring over 100 spectacular images of nature in her infinite glory, the 53rd Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition showcases the truly awe-inspiring work of the world’s best wildlife photographers.

On loan from the Natural History Museum of London, the display celebrates the diversity of the natural world and features inspiring stories of conservation, surprising animal behaviour and hidden underwater worlds.

Winning images were selected for their creativity, originality and technical excellence. The competition first launched in 1965 when it attracted 361 entries. Today the competition receives almost 50,000 entries from 92 countries, highlighting its enduring appeal.

Marvel at playful seals, be mesmerised by a cunning arctic fox and embrace the wonder of nature. Discover 100 extraordinary, award-winning images from one of the world’s most prestigious photography events.

When: Now until October 11
Where: The Australian National Maritime Museum
More information: anmm.gov.au

James Cameron – Challenging the Deep

Direct from the man who brought us Titanic is a new exhibition from James Cameron that showcases his history-making deep-sea expeditions.

Destined to delight underwater enthusiasts, the exhibition traces Cameron’s lifelong pursuit of and achievements in deep ocean science, technology and exploration including his record-breaking dives in Deepsea Challenger, the submersible vessel he designed that was built in Sydney.

Visitors will experience how Cameron’s drive and passion for understanding and exploring our oceans has shone a light on the spectacular phenomena and mysteries of the least known place on earth and enabled maritime archaeologists to document and understand the shipwrecks of RMS Titanic and the German battleship Bismarck.

The exhibition immerses visitors into an underwater environment using cinema scale projections, artefacts and specimens from his expeditions; displays of artefacts from the design and construction of the Deepsea Challenger; underwater recording, lighting, communication and diving technologies pioneered by Cameron; and props and costume from the feature films The Abyss and Titanic made possible by his drive to understand and expertise in meeting the challenges of the deep.

Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
When: Daily until January 30 (excluding Christmas Day)
More information: anmm.gov.au

Action Stations

Action Stations offers a new and exciting way to experience the compelling history of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

Action Stations reinterprets and enlivens the Australian National Maritime Museum’s much-loved ex-RAN vessels- HMAS Vampire, HMAS Onslow, and HMAS Advance. Featuring a dramatic immersive cinematic experience, a new discovery and exploration space and audio-visual encounters that recall sailors’ memories on board the vessels, Action Stations will give visitors new insight into the inner workings of navy life at sea.

New projections, soundscapes, lighting and music will awaken you to the very real dangers faced by a naval crew.

Where: Waterfront Pavilion Australian National Maritime Museum
When: Daily
More information: anmm.gov.au

Lebanon Carnival

On October 7, Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour will play host to a celebration of Lebanese culture with the annual Lebanon Carnival.

This year the event marks its 40th year and features a host of incredible performers showcasing the cultural history and modern day influences on traditional Lebanese culture.

Where: Tumbalong Park
When: Sunday October 7, 2018 from 11am to 5pm
More information: darlingharbour.com

About Darling Harbour

Since Australia’s Bicentennial in 1988, Darling Harbour has boasted an ever-increasing range of tourism icons, weekend events and ongoing activities. As one of Sydney’s cultural melting pots, it showcases the history and vibrancy of this exciting city.

In addition to a host of permanent attractions, Darling Harbour also features an ever-changing line-up of events and exhibitions, making this a destination that can be enjoyed time and again.

Permanent attractions include:

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium – Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is one of the city’s biggest and brightest attractions. You can walk through large glass tunnels as sharks swim lazily by (and overhead!) and marvel at the vast array of rays and tropical fish.

Wild Life Sydney Zoo – Tucked into a corner of Darling Harbour, this zoo is deceptively big. The space is divided into natural Australian habitats, such as the tropics, desert and rainforest. Here you can meet and greet koalas, and see wallabies, kangaroos, wombats, lizards, snakes and Rex, the resident crocodile.

Madame Tussauds – Like its international counterparts, this iconic attraction is home to a range of lifelike wax statues, with local favourites such as Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman among the famous faces.

Chinese Garden of Friendship – The perfect place to truly relax, the Chinese Garden consists of a series of meandering paths and arched bridges crossing serene ponds filled with golden fish. You can rest in a number of small pavilions by the water’s edge, or enjoy a tea in the traditional Chinese teahouse.

Harbourside – Harbourside is a multi-level shopping centre where you can find great bargains amongst designer clothing, shoes, arts, crafts and homewares.

Australian National Maritime Museum – One of our favourite museums, this is a great option for families or anyone with an interest in history. There are plenty of large exhibition spaces to explore, then step outside to discover a variety of moored vessels including vintage yachts, a submarine, a warship, and beautifully restored tall ships from the 18th Century.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

10 Reasons to love Sydney in winter

Posted on May 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Sydney might be renowned for endless summers by the beach, but winter allows you to see this picturesque city in a whole new light.

With crisp, clear days, the harbour takes on a true shimmer, the beaches are less crowded, and the food and fashion both transform to offer a comforting, yet cultured winter feel.

If that’s not enough to see you embrace the chill of winter in this vibrant city, here are 10 further reasons to love Sydney in winter.

The Harbour

Sydney Harbour is spectacular at any time of year, but in winter it glitters with allure under a mellowed sun. Winter is also the season when whales are welcomed to the city and there are a host of whale watching tours available from Darling Harbour that allow you to witness the wonder of whales in their natural surrounds.

Indoor activities

As the temperature cools, indoor activities heat up throughout the city. From the aquarium to the maritime museum or theatre, there’s no shortage of indoor events to keep tourists and locals entertained.

Sensational seafood

Winter serves up simply sensational Sydney seafood. In fact, this is the season when seafood is at its most abundant and the greatest range is in supply. From prawns to salmon and mussels, it’s all available and incredibly fresh. As seafood is one of our specialties, you can see our seafood menu to enjoy a taste of what’s on offer.

Long lunches

Winter is officially the season of the long lunch in Sydney as office workers, residents and tourists make the most of the warming midday sun to enjoy an outdoor meal. At Georges that lunch is set against the beautiful backdrop of the harbor and features hearty fare, mezze and seafood, all designed as the perfect accompaniment to a chilled Sydney day.

Rugging up

Winter offers the welcome opportunity to rug up in a city usually renowned for its summer style. Coats are in fashion, scarves in vogue and the style of Sydney evolves to embrace a more European and chic feel.

Beautiful beaches

The waters might only be warm enough for the exceptionally brace to swim, but the beauty of the beaches is perhaps even more striking on a crisp winter’s day. This is the time of year when the ocean is at its most powerful, the colour is at its most vibrant and the crowds are few and far between.

Welcoming walks

The average daily maximum of Sydney during winter is around 18 or 19 degrees, which is the perfect temperature to explore the city or its many national parks on foot. Enjoy a stroll from the Rocks to Darling Harbour and take in Barangaroo, or embrace nature and witness the spectacular beauty of South Head.

Less crowded

Sydney is just that little bit less crowded throughout winter, with many tourists choosing summer to visit this iconic city. That makes the cooler months the perfect time to enjoy unrestricted access to all the city’s beauty and sights.

Shimmering nights

The sunset falls around 5pm in winter, allowing an earlier evening glimpse into the majestic beauty of the city at night. Once the lights come on, this is a city transformed. The Harbour Bridge and Opera House are among the iconic Sydney landmarks that take on a whole new beauty in the evening. The Opera House now also features a lighting display on its sails each evening from sunset until 7pm.

Hearty meals

The cooler days and the chilled nights bring out the finest in winter food and fare. This is the time of year to enjoy a hearty meal, great coffee and fine wine. Think lamb, sirloin or pork to warm the heart and soul of a chilled winter’s eve. You can see our menu here for a little winter dining inspiration.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Darling Harbour to host Classic and Wooden Boat Festival

Posted on March 30, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

The beauty and diversity of Australia’s nautical history is set to be showcased from April 13-15 when Darling Harbour plays host to the Classic and Wooden Boat Festival.

Run by the Australian National Maritime Museum, the three-day event will feature over 150 vessels on display at Cockle Bay along with boat building workshops, live entertainment, and cruises on some of the heritage vessels.

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill we share a passion for a nautical history that has helped to shape Australia. Here’s an insight into what’s on offer during the event.

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival sees some of Australia’s most outstanding heritage vessels on display at Cockle Bay Marina. From Halvorsens, yachts and skiffs, to classic speedboats, steam launches, tug boats, whalers and Navy workboats, vessels come from all around Australia.

A centrepiece of the event will be the tall ship James Craig and Edwardian superstars SY Ena and Hurrica V.

The festival celebrates Australia’s diverse nautical history, giving visitors the opportunity to see the intricate handiwork and craftsmanship of each vessel, climb aboard some of the boats and ships on display and then learn about the history and work that goes into each.

A family-friendly affair

The Classic and Wooden Boat Festival is a family-friendly affair, with live entertainment and interactive workshops.

For the more intrepid boating enthusiast there are four-hour boat building challenges where a team of four to six people have to design, build and race their own seaworthy craft…in just four hours.

Visitors can also try their hand at traditional skills like caulking, line throwing and sculling, as they “muck in” and learn the ancient maritime arts.

Meanwhile, Children can get in on the action at the Boatshed where they can build and race their own boats, or enjoy magic shows, and a jumping castle.

A shared nautical history

At George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill, we’re excited to see the return of the Classic and Wooden Boat Festival as a vivid nautical history is among the attributes that the nations of Australia and Greece share.

Like Australia, Greece’s exploration and trade has historically been based on the sea, and it’s a nation whose nautical tradition goes back to antiquity.

Come join us

After a day spent sculling, caulking, boat building and marveling at the wonders of Australia’s maritime diversity, come join us for lunch or dinner at George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill. You can further embrace your love of the sea with fresh-caught seafood, or relax while taking in all the action at Darling Harbour over a shared meal of mezze.

Our venue is positioned across from the Australian National Maritime Museum.

About George’s

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Four fresh reasons to visit Darling Harbour

Posted on February 14, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Renowned as one of Sydney’s premier tourism destinations, Darling Harbour features an everchanging array of attractions in addition to the acclaimed drawcards of the maritime museum, aquarium and Madam Tussauds.

Throughout the year, the destination comes alive with live entertainment, light shows, and festivals, and February through to March is a prime time for such events.

That means there’s no time like the present to enjoy all the culture, events and activities on offer, so here are four fresh reasons to visit Darling Harbour.

Chinese New Year

From February 17 to March 4, Darling Harbour features all the sound, colour and vibrancy of Chinese New Year Celebrations, using its prime position and proximity to Chinatown to showcase this popular cultural event.

The festivities commence with the opening ceremony Lion Dance on February 17 and continue with a lantern festival from February 23 to 25, Dragon Boat Racing on February 24 and 25, tea ceremonies and more before concluding with a closing ceremony Dragon Dance on March 4.

The Box that Changed the World

Until October 25, the National Maritime Museum is exploring the influence and impact of the humble shipping container with an open-air exhibition entitled The Box that Changed the World.

Ferris Wheel

Enjoy a whole new perspective of Sydney and Darling Harbour with the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel that’s currently in residence.

Located in the Harbourside Amphitheatre, the Ferris Wheel showcases simply spectacular 360-degree views until March 11, and then again from April 11 to July 22.

At over 32-metres in height, the Star of the Show Ferris Wheel claims the title of the highest continuously travelling Ferris Wheel in Australia, and is open day and night.

Future Park

Just a hop, skip and jump from all the action of the Darling Harbour foreshore, the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences is currently hosting a unique display.

Known as Future Park, the exhibition allows participants to immerse themselves in an interactive world of light and colour.

The museum explains guests can: “compose a symphony of light and sound with giant colourful musical balls, create a living ecosystem of animals and plants with digital graffiti, test out your building skills and design a futuristic town, try your hand at electronic hopscotch, plus so much more.”

Future Park runs until April 30.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

Enjoy the allure of Sydney Harbour

Posted on January 31, 2018 by admin - News & Reviews

Renowned as one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, Sydney boasts a wealth of attractions for the day tripper and seasoned local alike.

It’s a vibrant destination where cultural, historical and natural attractions line the waterfront, serving up an experience to suit all ages and activity options.

At George’s we’re lucky enough to feature a picture-perfect vantage point of the harbour and its endless allure from our Darling Harbour restaurant, so these are our top tips for spending a day on picturesque Sydney Harbour.

On the water

There are few better ways to take in the beauty and sheer scale of Sydney Harbour than from the prime position of its waters, and one of the most accessible ways to explore the region in its entirety is via the iconic Sydney Ferries.

Traversing the harbour from Manly to Circular Quay, and Rose Bay to Darling Harbour, Sydney ferries offer an affordable and relaxing way to see the harbour city sights.

Get up close and personal to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, glide by the stately Opera House and take in the opulent waterfront homes that line the harbourside.

Whether Milsons Point, Darling Harbour, Neutral Bay or Taronga Zoo is your favoured destination, the ferries provide a unique insight into the history, natural beauty and unique waterways of Sydney Harbour.

Meanwhile, if a more tailored or tourist-focused water activity is the order of the day, there are a host of activities to suit, including kayak tours, underwater scooter rides, jet boat rides, sailing tours and more.

Cultural immersion

The harbour is a focal point of the city’s vibrant culture, with some of the Sydney’s most picturesque and renowned attractions lining the waterfront.

From a concert at the Opera House to an animal adventure at Taronga Zoo and a day at the aquarium in Darling Harbour, cultural experiences abound.

Nature beckons

One of the major attributes of Sydney Harbour is the natural precincts that have been maintained. The waterfront features wide open spaces and scenic spots that range from the newly established Barangaroo to the heritage renowned Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Then there’s the walking trails, beaches, and spectacular vistas afforded by parks and precincts like North, South and Middle Head, Double Bay, and Watson’s Bay.

A touch of history

As Australia’s oldest town, Sydney features a wealth of history, much of which adorns the harbour.

Take a stroll through the city’s genesis at The Rocks near Circular Quay, explore the former shipping and industry precinct that was Darling Harbour while venturing into some maritime history at the museum, or explore the convict past at the isolated and small island Fort Denison that sits in the middle of the harbour.

Wining and dining

Amidst the bright lights, sparkling views and the intrinsic beauty of the harbour, premium wining and dining experiences await.

At George’s we’re proud to be among the fine culinary harbourside offerings available that cater to waterfront eating day and night.

Whether it’s a sunset cocktail, a long waterside lunch or an intimate evening dinner taking in the twinkling harbor lights, there’s few venues as appealing as the harbor for a meal on the water.

About George’s

Located on the King Street Wharf amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbourside dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

George’s to embrace the light and vibrancy of Vivid

Posted on May 17, 2017 by admin - News & Reviews

Sydney is set to light up the winter night sky as the city transforms into a wonderland of sculptures, light installations and bright ideas for the annual Vivid festival later this month.

Now in its ninth year and running over 23 consecutive nights from May 26, the world renowned-festival sees the city flick the switch to reveal its most famous features in new and breathtaking ways.

Among the destinations to be illuminated in stunning style is Darling Harbour, with George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill in prime position to watch the spectacle unfold. So here is the lowdown on Vivid 2017 and some of the amazing experiences on offer…

Shedding light on Vivid

Combining light installations with music events and ideas exchange forums, Vivid is the largest event of its kind in the world and takes place at precincts across the city, including Darling Harbour.

The annual festival sees thousands of people exploring Sydney by night to witness the wonder of the city at its best and brightest. Each evening, from 6pm until 11pm, the city’s best known features are transformed into art canvases courtesy of light installations, image projections and interactive media displays.

Artists are engaged from around Australia and the world to design unique lighting displays that transform buildings, gardens and famous features into the world’s largest outdoor art gallery.

Vivid locations

Vivid takes place across Sydney with precincts including Darling Harbour, Martin Place, The Opera House, The Rocks, Chatswood, Barangaroo, Taronga Zoo and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Each site offers unique displays, and breathtaking light spectacles.

Vivid Darling Harbour

This year Darling Harbour will take centre stage with the Magicians of the Mist display. Celebrating the power of creativity and innovation, the event combines huge light projections, fireworks, lasers, balls of flame, searchlights, music, and a giant fountain pumping 28 tonnes of water into the air every minute.

Meanwhile, the majestic rooftop of the National Maritime Museum will form the canvas for the Inspired by the Sea projection, evoking the sea’s majesty and mystery.

The Fred Hollows Foundation will also provide a unique insight into Vivid and vision with the interactive Gift of Sight tour. Visitors will be armed with a special flashlight allowing them to discover incredible artworks painted in invisible UV ink.

A vivid history

The Vivid Festival began in 2009 as a Smart light festival with images being projected onto the Sydney Opera House. Over the years it has grown to incorporate additional areas, music and ideas forums, attracting over 2.3 million over 23 nights in 2016.

Take in the sights at George’s

George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill will be open throughout the Vivid Festival, welcoming in weary sightseers for Mezze and drinks, or providing a hospitable base to enjoy dinner while witnessing the wonders of Vivid from the comfort of our Darling Harbour dining venue.

George’s is conveniently located on the Promenade at King’s Wharf, providing easy access and viewing to the spectacular sights of Vivid.

You can view our menu or make a reservation here, or see the Vivid website for all the details and locations for the event, including advice on transport.