Remember when North Sydney was the sleepy cousin of the bustling CBD and had all the corporate buzz without the weekend vibe?
Fast forward to today and thanks to the shiny new metro rail line and the ultra-convenient Victoria Cross station north Sydney is officially having its moment.
And practically next door to the new metro and enjoying this moment is the newly refurbished Rydges north Sydney which we had the pleasure of experiencing last weekend.
CHECK-IN
The online check-in and check-out is super fast and efficient via text or email but If you prefer the human touch there’s a friendly face at the desk ready to help.
If you have a car the hotel has an on-site car park with an abundance of space. North Sydney is Super easy to get to with no traffic jams or city centre stress.
Upon arrival, I’m struck by the hotel’s natural Aussie aesthetic. The lobby is spacious and airy with modern art and pops of Australian native flowers. Earthy tones, gum leaf greens and natural timbers provide a relaxing chilled welcome.
THE ROOM
We are in a 2-bedroom harbour view penthouse on the 12th floor and I’m really happy to see there’s a small balcony from which to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Sydney harbour.
The 72 square metre spotlessly clean suite features two king beds, (the ultra-comfy Rydges Dream beds) a comfortable lounge area, and a kitchenette equipped with a microwave. Three chrome cast-enabled TVs, eco-friendly air-con and multiple USB ports. Squillion thread count bed linen, block out curtains and lighting that you don’t require a degree in electronics to figure out.
I slept like a baby in the Dream bed!
The bathroom is nicely stocked with Thank you products and an attractive and functional ring light mirror (great for makeup application!)
There’s a generously stocked mini-bar with my favourite (I could mainline !)Red Rock chips
FOOD AND DRINK
Wattle Bar + Kitchen offers modern Australian cuisine infused with native ingredients, highlighting local produce. The menu features dishes like roasted beetroot carpaccio, herb-baked bone marrow, and classic grill options, complemented by regional wines and classic cocktails.
The restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere with timber flooring and greenery, creating a cityside sanctuary for guests. Breakfast is served on weekdays from 7 am to 9:30 am, and at weekends from 7 am to 10:30 am. The bar operates daily from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
The coffee is outstanding – huge compliments to the Rydges barista!
SERVICE
Super friendly and unobtrusive – nothing is too much trouble
FITNESS
There is a 24-hour gym with treadmills, free weights and all you need to minimise a Sydney weekends over-indulgence!
LOCATION
North Sydney’s dining scene has been revitalized with the opening of the Walker Street Precinct at 168 Walker Street. Make sure you check out Sol Bread + Wine: A bakery-café-wine bar offering freshly baked breads, pastries, and sandwiches by day, transitioning to a lively wine bar with tempting snacks in the evening.
Soluna: An LA-inspired all-day diner and bar with a 110-seat restaurant, 60-seat bar, and 30-seat lounge, offering a flexible space for various dining experiences.
Genzo: A contemporary Asian diner featuring an innovative menu with kushiyaki (skewers), noodles, and raw dishes, alongside an impressive selection of sake and Japanese wines. Or just hop on the metro and you are a mere 8 minutes away from Sydney’s amazing CBD with hundreds of dining options.
If you’re feeling active walk across the harbour bridge – it’s just a stones throw away
CONCLUSION
Rydges North Sydney is a great CBD alternative
With rooms starting from $249, it’s a fantastic city break!
