The Sydney Opera House is Australia’s foremost tourist destination, attracting over 10.9 million visitors annually and hosting more than 1,800 performances attended by over 1.4 million people. According to Deloitte, the Opera House’s social value is estimated at $11.4 billion, underscoring its significance as a cultural and economic powerhouse.

The Opera House is now seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from experienced hospitality operators to manage its iconic harbourside venues—currently trading as Opera Bar and House Canteen—for a ten-year contract. This EOI is the first stage of a two-stage tender process, with the second stage involving a detailed Request for Tender (RFT) for shortlisted applicants. The successful operator is expected to begin managing the venues in late 2025.

The Lower Concourse, home to Opera Bar and House Canteen, serves as a vibrant gateway for visitors arriving from East Circular Quay and the carpark. With a total capacity of 2,370 people, these venues conduct over 1.4 million transactions per year, making them among the most frequented dining spots in Sydney. Their harbourside location offers unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, drawing both locals and international visitors.

This EOI offers a once-in-a-decade opportunity to reimagine the dining and beverage experience at these iconic venues. Respondents will be required to submit a distinctive and innovative concept for each venue, ensuring they complement each other while catering to a broad and diverse audience, including tourists, locals, theatre-goers, and families. Proposals should reflect the Opera House’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible dining options that resonate with the site’s cultural significance and international reputation.

Operators will be assessed based on the following criteria:

1. Business Capabilities: Proven success in managing high-volume hospitality venues of a similar scale.
2. Initial Concept: A creative vision for each venue that enhances the Opera House experience, blending innovation with tradition.
3. Strategic Alignment: The ability to align with the Sydney Opera House’s “Everyone’s House” strategy, focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and enhancing visitor experiences.
4. SME and Local Participation: Support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and contributions to the local economy.
5. Sustainability: Commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical business practices, in line with the Opera House’s goals of reducing environmental impact and promoting positive change.

An EOI briefing session will be held on Wednesday, 9th October.

The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 30^rd of October 2024. 

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