In Sydney, historic buildings are almost a dime a dozen. Original sandstone, subterranean basements and exposed brick are all standard features of hot new restaurants, cafes and bars. So how does a building that’s been around the block really stand out? 

It gets a new resident, one that’s really going all out to make sure the bare bones of the building are brought back to life. Lot.1 is one of Sydney’s newest restaurants in an old building and boy are they excited about their new/old digs. 

Located in what most of us know as the Inski building on York St, Lot.1 is split into sections; Espresso Bar, Restaurant and soon to come basement cocktail bar. Dating back to 1878, it began life as a bank. 

You’ll be doing a double take as you walk by – the mood-lit sandstone walls are adorned by giant waves of wood that curve around diners heads along the wall and up onto the ceiling. The wood tucks the window seats away from the main dining room, creating intimate dining spaces perfect for people watching in peak hour. Such a distinctive design feature is the work of master joiners Karisma, and mimics swirls of coffee, a homage to the owners, the Di Stefano coffee family.

Once you’ve ogled the original and new design features, cast your eyes to the menu. Chef Adam Swanson has been wooed from Adelaide, where his award winning menus are still the talk of the town.

At Lot.1, it’s all about modern Italian flavours. For a quick bite to eat, grab a drink at the Espresso bar and take advantage of the generous aperitivo, with free bar snacks served Mon-Fri 5-6.30pm. Better yet, book a table at the restaurant and peruse the sharing plates – arancini piled high, delicate goats cheese cannoli dotted with hazelnuts, and the most moreish polpettine meatballs in town. Bigger dishes are decadent – Rangers Scotch Fillet tagliata, slow cooked lamb shoulder and Pork Belly – they’re the stuff of client lunches and business dinners. serves of moreish.

Watch this space – the basement cocktail bar is set for big things. We’re keen to see the original safe put to use for those extra special bottles.

Lot.1 Sydney
18 – 20 York Street, Sydney
T: (02) 9279 3555
Mon – Fri: 12pm – 3:30pm
Mon – Sat: 5:30pm – Late
official website