There’s a better meld between the new name-brand occupant and the kind of restaurant we might expect to represent us in a key public space. Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan from MorSul have brought the highlights of the garden-driven Chiswick over to the Art Gallery of NSW’s restaurant space. You’ll find all the communal dining elements they’re famous for – the slow-roasted Moran family farm lamb; the whole roast chook – but here, the plants are by necessity potted, and the general aesthetic Scandinavian. The simple lines keep your attention where it should be – on the commanding view of waterside Woolloomooloo. Lacking the necessary companionship for the communal route, I dabbled in cocktails and small plates. While Szechuan Yellowfin Tuna ($20) with apple, cucumber and mint was too muted, the dude food options surprised. I particularly enjoyed Snow Crab Sliders ($9/each) and crisp pieces of Fried Quail ($22) with lively jalapeños and sriracha mayo. They’re prefect against the passionfruit chilli punch of the Picante de la Casa ($17). Alternatively, construct a light yet classy lunch with Oysters ($4/each) augmented by Native Thyme and Garlic Flatbread ($6) and seasonal Peaches ($17) with bitter leaves and mint. It makes the perfect excuse to explore their list of interesting wines, starting with the home-grown (Canberra) 2014 Lark Hill Grüner Veltliner ($14.50/glass).

Chiswick at the Gallery
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney
Ph: (02) 9225 1819 chiswickrestaurant.com.au
Modern Australian $$$-$$$$

Cake Picnic CakeCon, a community-led event celebrating cake lovers and home bakers is making its national debut in Sydney, giving locals a chance to bring a cake to share, swap tips, and show off their creativity. 

CakeCon was influenced by cake picnics trends as seen in big cities such as, LA, London, New York, with the concept finally being brought to Sydney. 

“CakeCon is our love letter to home bakers – a fun, inclusive picnic where creativity, community and cake all take centre stage,” said organiser Joan Caballero.

In creating CakeCon, Caballero wants to celebrate Sydney’s big baking community, and hopes to foster “a space where cakes don’t just sit prettily on tables, but bring people together in celebration.”

From being the “cake person” in her circles, with a growing passion for baking cakes passed from her mom to her three daughters, Caballero sees baking as her way of celebrating the people she loves.

Each ticket holder must bring a cake, and will receive a pizza box to fill up with as much cake as they can physically fit, before voting for their favourite.

Two celebrity chefs, Darren Purchese and Rachel Khoo, will be there to judge the cakes based on flavours and looks and are ready to hand out some prizes to the best in show.

Organiser hopes “feel good” event expands across country

CakeCon is not just for cake bakers, it’s also for cake enjoyers because, with organisers allowing those who are culinarily challenged to store-bought cakes, as long as they include allergen info and nutrition labels.

“We wanted a feel good city picnic where everyone brings a cake and leaves with ideas, new friends, and a phone full of photos.” Caballero said.

Tickets are selling fast with more than 130 tickets purchased already- which means more than 130 cakes! 

As this is a cake picnic concept, CakeCon will happen in an outdoor area that is perfect for picnics so BYO picnic blanket and non-alcoholic drinks as it is also a family-friendly event.

With Sydney debuting as the first city to host CakeCon, Caballero hopes to expand the event across Australia, with an event lined up for Melbourne if the launch proves successful.

Purchase your CakeCon tickets here.

Date: Sunday, 28 September 2025

Venue: Centennial Homestead, Centennial Park