Hotel dining is experiencing a renaissance, with some of Australia’s top hotel restaurants earning or retaining coveted Chef’s Hats in the 2025 Australian Good Food Guide awards.
This year, five Sofitel and MGallery properties in Australia have been recognised for their outstanding culinary excellence, further reinforcing hotels as destinations for top-tier dining experiences. The properties are part of the Accor group which is at the forefront of this transformation, investing heavily in elevating food and beverage offerings across its luxury and lifestyle hotels.
Leading the way: Sofitel and MGallery’s award-winning restaurants
Two Hats:
- Atelier by Sofitel – Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
Located in one of Sydney’s most iconic hotels, Atelier by Sofitel delivers a refined, French-inspired menu that seamlessly blends artistry and technique. With stunning harbour views, impeccable service, and an innovative culinary approach, its two-hat accolade cements its position as one of Sydney’s finest dining establishments.
One Hat:
- Newmarket Restaurant – The William Inglis Hotel
Newmarket Restaurant at The William Inglis Hotel celebrates contemporary Australian flavours with a strong connection to local produce. Its dedication to seasonality and regional influences has earned it a well-deserved Chef’s Hat. - No.1 Sublime Pt – Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
Set against the breathtaking Blue Mountains backdrop, No.1 Sublime Pt offers a creative take on modern Australian cuisine, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques. - Garçon Bleu – Sofitel Adelaide
Blending classic French culinary traditions with premium Australian produce, Garçon Bleu at Sofitel Adelaide delivers an elegant yet approachable dining experience that honours both technique and simplicity. - Luma Restaurant – The Playford Adelaide
Luma Restaurant at The Playford Adelaide celebrates South Australia’s rich produce with a menu that reflects bold, balanced flavours and a commitment to sustainability.
A renewed focus on culinary excellence
The recognition of these restaurants aligns with Accor’s strategic focus on transforming hotel dining into a key part of the guest experience. Travellers are increasingly seeking authentic regional flavours and immersive culinary experiences, and Accor is responding by enhancing its food and beverage offerings.
The relaunch of Sofitel Sydney Wentworth exemplifies this shift. Following an extensive renovation, the hotel now features four new bars and restaurants by House Made Hospitality, blending old-school glamour with modern dining trends.
David Fraser, Vice President Operations for Sofitel, MGallery and Emblem hotels in the Pacific, emphasised the importance of this transformation:
“Hotels are no longer just places to rest while travelling; they have become destinations in their own right, where exceptional dining experiences rival the very best standalone restaurants,” he said. “At Sofitel hotels, cuisine is an art form and an expression of local flavours, often with a touch of French zest; while MGallery hotels are known for delivering memorable and meaningful moments with a focus on mixology that is inspired by local culture and flora.
“These Chef’s Hats are a testament to our teams, who excel at the culinary arts and who deliver outstanding experiences to our guests every day.”
Expanding the Sofitel and MGallery footprint
Alongside a renewed focus on dining, Sofitel and MGallery are undergoing significant expansion. Currently, 32 Sofitel and Sofitel Legend hotels are in the pipeline, including locations in Prague, India, and Egypt, with 26 per cent of the existing Sofitel network undergoing renovation. Meanwhile, MGallery continues its global growth, with 48 hotels in development across Japan, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
