North Sydney: The rise of a culinary hotspot
North Sydney, located just across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge from the CBD, has long been recognised as one of Australia’s largest commercial hubs. It served as a centre for business and finance, with a skyline dominated by corporate offices and high-rise buildings. The area also hosts one of the largest concentrations of advertising and information technology firms in New South Wales, solidifying its role as a key player in the region’s economic landscape.
![Aura Aqualand](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/aura-aqualand-1-1024x731.png)
Today, North Sydney is rapidly transforming from a bustling business district into a vibrant urban hub, attracting a wave of innovative restaurants, cafés and hospitality venues with Aqualand at the forefront of its transformation.
Aqualand is a leading Australian property developer known for its luxurious, design-forward residential and mixed-use spaces. Their flagship project in the district is Aura by Aqualand, which is a testament to their commitment to blending premium urban living with lifestyle and culture.
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-8-819x1024.png)
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-15-819x1024.png)
A key component of Aqualand’s vision is brought to life through its hospitality division, Etymon Projects, which has been instrumental in reshaping North Sydney’s culinary landscape. Etymon has introduced a series of exceptional dining destinations within the precinct, each offering unique flavours inspired by both local and international influences.
Its most recent project, Loulou Martin Place in Milsons Point, is a bistro and bar that offers a lighter take on contemporary and classic French fare. Next door is its little sister, Petit Loulou, which is a kiosk-style café that offers a slice of Paris with its freshly baked breads, pastries, desserts and cake.
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-9-819x1024.png)
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-16-819x1024.png)
Etymon also brought the exceptional Japanese cuisine and contemporary LA-inspired dining experience in North Sydney’s newest food and dining destination, Walker Street, with Genzo and Soluna.
Genzo offers a relaxing aesthetic with its cocktail and sake bar, as well as its variety of Japanese dining with a focus on kushiyaki or skewers, noodles and raw dishes.
Soluna, on the other hand, takes the Los Angeles coastal vibes onto the table with its all-day dining and bar. Its diverse menu offers a blend of Mediterranean and Asian flavours, featuring dishes like grilled coral trout and lamb kofta.
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-13-819x1024.png)
![Etymon](https://boulevard.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/etymon-2-819x1024.png)
As North Sydney continues to evolve, it is becoming a true destination that seamlessly blends modern living, business and vibrant culinary experiences. With Aqualand’s innovative developments and Etymon Projects leading the way in transforming the local hospitality scene, the area is proving itself as a dynamic hub for world-class dining.
Visit Aqualand and Etymon for more information.
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