A Collection of the World's Finest to Head Star-Studded Culinary Line-Up in Sydney

SYDNEY, Nov. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- David Chang is set to open his first restaurant outside the USA as he heads a stellar line-up of international and Australian chefs set to open their doors at Sydney's all new Star City in 2011.

Chang is the chef and owner of the Momofuku group of restaurants in New York City and his impact on global food trends cannot be underestimated – he was named in TIME magazine's 100 most influential people in the world for 2010.

Chang heads a stellar line-up of chefs who today announced they would open their doors at what is set to become a one-of-a-kind lifestyle and entertainment destination when the $860 million redevelopment is complete in late 2011.

The line-up of Australian chefs bristles with culinary excitement and adventure with Melbourne's favourite Teage Ezard, Italian maestro Stefano Manfredi, MasterChef darling Adriano Zumbo and Sydney's best-loved Cantonese restaurant, Golden Century, all set to open signature restaurants.

Joining David Chang from the USA will be Chase Kojima, a young gun from the Nobu empire who will open a stunning, contemporary Japanese restaurant.

Restaurant names, designs and capacities are almost complete and more detailed plans of each individual venue will be available in 2011.

Chefs and restaurants to open include:

David Chang

It all started when Chang turned his back on fine dining and opened the Momofuku Noodle Bar in New York's East Village in 2004. His Korean upbringing combined with classical technique in the kitchen is emulated the world over. "When I first visited Australia earlier this year, I knew at once there was an affinity. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to share the Momofuku philosophy at this world-class dining destination." Chang's Momofuku Ko in New York has two Michelin stars.

Chase Kojima

Formerly executive chef at Nobu in the Bahamas, Chase will bring his modern-Asian aesthetic to an already eager Sydney audience. Expect ultra-modern design, located at new five-star lifestyle hotel. "Sydney is renowned for its already daring take on Asian cuisine so it's an honour to be able to join the stellar line-up at the reinvigorated Star City," commented Kojima.

Teage Ezard

Melbourne wonder boy and former The Age Good Food Guide Chef of the Year is finally bringing brand Ezard to Sydney, but don't expect his trademark Asian style. Teage is opening a modern Australian steak and seafood restaurant with an encyclopaedic wine list. "I am truly enthusiastic about this incredible opportunity," said Ezard. "It will have a beautiful menu, thoughtful and elegant design and one of the best views in the world. I have been working extremely closely with the team at Star City to make sure we create a restaurant that is true to my style and true to me."  

Stefano Manfredi

Stefano Manfredi is recognised as one of Australia's leading chefs and internationally as a master of modern Italian cuisine. The new Manfredi restaurant at Star City heralds his much-anticipated return to the Sydney dining scene. "I'm excited by the opportunity to create this restaurant with Star City... and look forward to preparing the first dishes and welcoming our first guests", says Manfredi. Those guests will enjoy a menu inspired by modern Milanese cuisine in an Italian trattoria setting. Manfredi and his long-term business partner Julie Manfredi Hughes are collaborating with renowned Italian architect Luigi Rosselli on the concept, which was inspired by Milan's Navigli area.

Adriano Zumbo

Zumbo is the new darling of the culinary scene with a penchant for creating almost impossible sweet treats - regularly featuring, of course, at the business-end of MasterChef. Zumbo is set to open a new style of retail café and display kitchen. Undoubtedly his famous macarons will feature but also it will be a showcase for his incredible skill and use of exotic ingredients. "I can't wait to unleash more of my creations onto Sydney and this exciting new development has given me the opportunity to do just that." Zumbo said.

Golden Century

Sydney's favourite Chinese seafood restaurant is opening a new establishment outside of its Chinatown home base. Eric and Linda Wong will be bringing their seafood tanks and an array of top chefs to the new Star City complex. Hong Kong-based Australian interior designer Alex Wong is designing the restaurant, elevating the look and feel to a new level. Expect the finest live seafood and authentic cuisine.

Peter Kuruvita of Flying Fish in Pyrmont will also open an outlet serving takeaway fish and chips in Flying Fish's signature style and Gelato Messina of Darlinghurst fame, will craft the best gelati and frozen desserts.

This all-star line-up joins Star City's current stable of chefs including executive chef Andy North, plus consultant chef to Fat Noodle, Luke Nguyen of Red Lantern fame.

Victor Tiffany, Head of Hospitality, Casinos Division, Tabcorp commented; "It's incredibly exciting to be welcoming such a spectacular roster of global talent to our home. We feel privileged to be working with both our international and local culinary stars, and taking a part in the revitalisation of the Sydney dining scene."

Sid Vaikunta, Managing Director, Star City, said; "This is an inspiring milestone as our vision to create a truly international dining and nightlife destination is well underway. Sydney is a world-class destination and we are incredibly proud of the part we will play in keeping this city a truly great place to live and visit for years to come."

Located on Sydney Harbour, Star City is the only casino in New South Wales. Star City is being transformed into a one-of-a kind leisure and entertainment destination. The $860 million redevelopment includes the re-orientation of the casino to embrace Sydney's Harbour and city skyline, plus the addition of a new five-star hotel and spa, over 20 restaurants, bars, cafes and improved entertainment and gaming facilities. The work is expected to be completed late 2011.

SOURCE Star City