Cast your mind back just a few years, and Pelicano was the go-to venue for indulgent dining and vibrant nightlife. As most Sydney-siders will remember however, the once-thriving hotspot was forced to close its doors back in 2019, when an impending building development ending the restaurant at the height of its popularity.
Fast forward to 2024, and Pelicano has made the ultimate triumphant return, taking up residence at the iconic former Hugo’s Lounge in Potts Point. In a hospitality climate where venue closures have become the norm, news of an old favourite re-opening its doors is certainly welcome.
While, previously, Pelicano was housed in Double Bay, the new Potts Point locale features a stunning alfresco terrace – the perfect compliment to the restaurant's fresh, Mediterranean-inspired menu.
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And, while the doors to Pelicano 2.0 have only been open for less than two months, already the restaurant has regained its reputation as a favourite for Sydney’s social scene. From Wednesday to Sunday, guests can relax into casual dining, with a menu spanning grilled prawns, burrata, flatbreads, and spaghetti. Then, on Fridays and Saturdays, the vibe shifts from 9:30pm, with DJs and dancing transforming the venue into a late-night haunt. Naturally, there’s ample cocktails to get the nice started right, from signature recipes, to seven unique spritz variations.
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Pelicano's success should come as no surprise: Andrew Belcher, the mastermind behind the restaurant, already has hit Sydney venues Armorica, Franca and Parlar in his portfolio. And while diner's can expect the same moreish fare from Pelicano as Belcher's existing restaurants, it caters to a different kind of dining experience, filling a much-needed gap in Sydney's current hospitality market. Whether you're looking for cocktails and canapés in the afternoon sun, or toasting to a late night, Pelicano – quite literally – does it all.
