The Winery in Surry Hills is a Sydney institution. It was the first place that everyone suggested I had to visit when I moved here and has since been the home of many happy girls’ get togethers over great food, fueled by bottles of vino. To say I was excited to try their Glamping Under the Stars experience is an understatement!
As soon as we walk along the fairy light pathway, it is like entering a magical wonderland, leaving the day’s stresses behind. Milo escorts us to our Turkish-style tent in the garden and we settle onto copious cushions (FYI: this is not the place for short skirts or high heels!). There is a stunning hydrangea display snaking around the central pole and a cute little heater in one corner in case it gets a bit chilly. We enjoy a lovely view as the sun sets over the city skyscape and the lights emerge as night falls.
There are two sized tents – one for 8 people and another for 2-4 people. There are two glamping packages to choose from each weeknight until 16th September. You can pick the sharing snack option – think charcuterie platters, sliders and mac and cheese which is perfect for a fun group night out. However, we have opted to up the glamour factor and go for the “Date Night” package for $200.
But first things first – the cocktails….! My plus one picks the Spicy Margarita which hits the spot with a bang. I opt to step back in time and get a Cosmopolitan and am so glad I did. Why haven’t I had one of these for so long?! It is sensational and dangerously moreish.
Cocktails and Starters 
Spicy Tuna Carpaccio
As we enjoy our drinks, the first course comes out: starting with a luscious oyster each along with spicy Tuna Carpaccio. This is paired with a mountain of mixed marinated olives and accompanied by a delicious mushroom truffle pate with a jammy beetroot relish, mini radishes and toasted bread. Whilst the food menu is set, it is up to us to choose the bottle of wine and we test the red wine options with the knowledgeable staff. We land on the Robert Oatley Cabernet Sauvignon which has vanilla notes and a touch of spiciness. Perfect for our main course pairing.
Sirloin + Cab Sauv = Delish 
Roastie heaven
We enjoy the medium rare sirloin with red wine jus and a hint of mushroom. Loved that it was served with a trio of mustards on the plate as it doesn’t happen often. Take your pick between Dijon, Seeded and Hot English Mustard. This comes with glossy long stemmed broccolini and a bowl of crispy roast potatoes smothered in tarragon butter. These were fantastic and we can see why they are the firm fan favourite. No crumbs were left….
Whilst we (and many of you!) regularly enjoy The Winery because they always get it right – between the food, drinks and buzzy atmosphere, they know what they are doing. However, this definitely kicks things up a notch with a unique offering. Elevate (albeit on the floor) your next mid-week date night or girls’ get together and go Glamping!
The Winery – Glamping under the Stars, 285a Crown Street, Surry Hills 2010
Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs: 12-11pm, Fri-Sat: 12pm-12am,
Glamping under the Stars packages available Mon-Thurs from 12pm until 16th September
