Pony Lounge & Dining – The Rocks

Established over six years ago and led by acclaimed head chef Damian Heads, Pony Lounge & Dining has survived the industry’s toughest times.

Set along Sydney’s oldest cobblestone laneway, this former bond warehouse features hanging woven art on sandstone walls, glossy chocolate settings and an open kitchen decorated by a brown and white cowhide. The long communal table set outside on the open deck is ideal for warmer days, where diners can sip on cocktails and enjoy a selection of share plates, including chicken and pistachio terrine and slow-cooked pork croquettes with seeded mustard mayonnaise.

The slick stainless steel kitchen showcases an Argentinean-style wood fire grill, serving locally sourced, sustainable produce such as the Mirrool Creek lamp rump with minted labneh and Tasmanian salmon fillet with Hunter Valley fetta, orange, beetroot and mint.

Away from the grill, dishes of gnocchi are served simply with sage and pumpkin, and dessert is a winner with the indulgent soft-centred chocolate pudding served with dark chocolate ice cream.