The Pines Dining Experience
A Stylish New Beachside Restaurant Has Arrived
Posted November, 2020
The Pines, perched above iconic North Cronulla beach, has views spanning the coastline - the name paying homage to the famous Norfolk Pine trees that line the vista. After our recent BTS tour, we can confirm that The Pines will undoubtedly bring a whole new dining experience to the heart of Cronulla.
Officially opening its door in November, Co-Owner Ross Robinson says: “The Pines will offer a completely unique dining experience for Cronulla locals and beyond, something the area is currently missing. Chic, yet informal, The Pines takes inspiration from The Hamptons, celebrating the beauty of the local coastline and the desire for a premium local experience, elevating Cronulla dining to a new level.”
The brief was to create a stylish yet relaxed Hamptons inspired open-air dining room, where guests could enjoy a complete dining experience. The Pines experience epitomises well-versed, pre-emptive and sophisticated service. Their team have been trained to enliven the senses and pay attention to every detail, from noting your choice of still or sparkling water to your favourite bottle of wine.
Their sun-drenched Après Beach Bar sits pretty on the venue’s outdoor deck, where guests can start with an Aperitif before moving inside to enjoy the à la carte or degustation menu by Executive Chef James Metcalfe. James' illustrious career spans over 25 years working in both double hatted and Michelin star restaurants across London and Sydney.
The foundation of the menu emulates the overall vision of the restaurant: fresh, seasonal and local with a focus on showcasing the finest produce available from some of Australia’s most celebrated producers.
“Our headline dishes include the Rump Cap from Rangers Valley, the world’s most respected premium marbled beef producers, and Humpty Doo Barramundi which is a sustainably grown, 100% Australian family owned, premium, saltwater Barramundi. Our lamb is from Milly Hill, one of the most sought-after & accomplished lamb brands in NSW and we only buy top grade, hand-picked Noosa Spanner Crabs. The menu really celebrates the best of what our corner of the world has to offer,” says James Metcalfe.
Browsing the menu, we guarantee most dishes will make your mouth water. We loved the Marinated Tuna, Tuscan Kale, Seared Scallops, Barramundi, Blue Eye Trevalla, Braised Lamb Shoulder, Mousse and Chocolate Cigar. There are still so many dishes we’re dying to try, so it won’t be long until we’re back for our second visit. Insider tip: treat yourself to their Shade of Pines cocktail (good luck stopping at just one).
After dinner, guests can complete their experience at The Pines Lounge. The intimate feel of The Pines Lounge sets the mood to enjoy smoked cocktails, global spirits, and a decadent dessert or chocolate cigar.
The Pines team encompasses the collective global experience of Ross Robinson, Adam Cryer, Leonard Davis, Brian McCarthy, Chris Hoy and Executive Chef James Metcalfe, all coming together to create something completely unique and truly special to the area. Between the group they own and manage various hospitality assets in NSW.
Brian McCarthy, who has trained and worked globally for Ritz Carlton, will head up the entire operation as General Manager. Chris Hoy of Rockpool, Merivale, Bearfoot Bistro in Whistler & Ritz Carlton Sommelier fame will oversee the beverage program, with a selection of signature cocktails and an impressive wine cellar featuring over a thousand New and Old-World wines from some of Australia’s most renowned and innovative producers. Oh and if you’re a coffee drinker, you’ll be happy to hear their coffee is sourced from The Grounds of Alexandria.
“Diners have a renewed appreciation for more intimate gatherings in local surroundings, and with no European holidays in sight, this Summer we feel there is an overwhelmingly positive shift to enjoy experiences in our own backyard,” says Adam Cryer.
“The Pines is a dream project that we’ve all been working on for a long time and can’t wait to deliver a totally unique venue to Cronulla,” said Lenny Davis. “We believe the hospitality industry, especially in the Sutherland Shire, will come back bigger and better than ever with more people staying local and celebrating quality coastal dining.”
