Brimming with energy and thoughtfulness, RAFI URBNSURF is set within URBNSURF Sydney – a groundbreaking ‘lifestyle precinct’ in the heart of Olympic Park. The venue has been crafted by renowned interior design studio Luchetti Krelle, and successfully captures the essence of urban sophistication alongside the natural beauty of the New South Wales bushland.

Spanning 458 square metres of combined indoor dining, kitchen and multi-function spaces, alongside a 125-square-metre outdoor terrace, RAFI URBNSURF can accommodate up to 200 guests. Its elevated position allows for sweeping views of the lagoon and park, which is enhanced by expansive retractable windows that create a continuous connection with the outdoors. The restaurant is designed as a thoughtful extension of its North Sydney counterpart, embodying the same elegance and commitment to quality, yet infused with its singular take on surf culture.

The interior design pays homage to the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. Luchetti Krelle has meticulously chosen natural materials that evoke a sense of place without being guilty of falling into surf-themed tropes. Tempting as it might have been to do otherwise, the designers have skilfully avoided any kind of cliché interaction with the adjacent surf. Instead, the restaurant’s generous vistas and sounds of the crashing waves delight the visitor’s senses, their presence feeling unforced and relished. 

The array of materials used is stunning, giving rise to a space that is adorned with smoked oak floorboards interspersed with stone and leathered finishes. An earthy palette dominates and is enhanced by coppery tones, water-like hues and vegetal themes. The dining area features a vast wool carpet – created by First Nations artist Colleen Ngwarraye – with abstract representations of Bush medicine herbs. This design choice, while specifically tailored to RAFI URBNSURF, is an unmistakeable acknowledgment to the rug in the private dining room in RAFI North Sydney. 

Related: Leyla also by Luchetti Krelle

The interplay of textures and materials is a hallmark of the design, with mosaic-tiled tables, woven rush dining chairs and custom joinery such as timber tables. Copper velvet banquettes glow warmly under the afternoon sun, while copper-hued voile curtains frame the expansive windows, allowing the space to bask in natural light.

Complementing the design, aged brass lighting fixtures from local artisans Transmitt cast a warm glow throughout. Carefully placed lustrous globes and perforated pendants create a soft ambiance. At the heart of the restaurant is a sumptuously designed bar, featuring a sweeping, curved form that mirrors the concave shape of the dining area. The space does not accommodate sharp or angular lines, intentionally so, opting instead for shapes that foster a sense of flow, softness and intimacy. 

All these choices create a rich textural and sensory experience that is felt throughout the restaurant. The organic beauty of the restaurant is tamed, however, by sculptural divisions that delineate dining zones without enclosing them, allowing the space to retain a sense of openness yet exude undeniable cosiness. 

Chef Matias Cillóniz, hailing from Peru, leads the culinary charge at RAFI URBNSURF. Tasked with crafting dishes that resonate with Sydneysiders, Cillóniz takes full advantage of the restaurant’s open layout, which allows him to maintain a visual connection with diners. This design choice sustains a dynamic relationship between chef and guest, adding to the restaurant’s vibrancy and enhancing the overall dining experience. Chef Matias’ menu is a tribute to the multicultural fabric of Sydney, which incorporates flavours from Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Mediterranean cuisines, reflecting the city’s diverse palate. The restaurant also proves itself in its commitment to minimise waste and promote reusability, from sustainable sourcing practices to the use of biodegradable materials. There is a distinct parallel between the restaurant’s culinary philosophy and its design ethos – the story they tell is one of innovation and care, which is delightfully and comprehensively articulated. 

RAFI URBNSURF transcends the conventional dining experience, merging culinary artistry with design innovation. The versatility of RAFI URBNSURF is underscored by its multi-function rooms that can be adapted for a range of events and functions. This comprehensive offering positions RAFI URBNSURF as a premier destination for tasteful event spaces within the Western Sydney community. Its design not only celebrates the vibrant spirit of Sydney but also reflects the unique landscapes that inspire it. This restaurant is not just a place to eat; it is a destination where culture, cuisine, Country and community converge in a stunning setting.

Luchetti Krelle
luchettikrelle.com

Photography
Steven Woodburn

Next up: Manly Pacific Hotel by Luchetti Krelle