Considering The Calile Hotel’s Lobby Bar is set to become one of the most talked-about venues in town, it makes sense that the powers that be have decided to bring in the big guns. Making the shift from Melbourne, Kitak Lee brings with him a seriously impressive pedigree. He comes fresh from heading the two-hatted The Table at Kuro Kisumé, and preceding that held sous chef roles at Sydney’s Momofuku Seiobo, Potts Point’s Cho Cho San and Sydney icon Bilson’s. Kitak will be joined by front-of-house wizard Katrina Ford, who is returning to her home state after stints and some of Sydney and London’s finest dining institutions (hello, Shoreditch House).

Kitak will be drawing upon his classical European training and South Korean upbringing to create a killer menu and cocktail list for Lobby Bar. His innovative and creative style combined with the hotel’s ethos of relaxed sophistication will be spread across a contemporary all-day offering – from breakfast to evening dining and everything in between. Freshness will be key with light, local ingredients taking centre stage of the menu. Thoughtful touches like a considered wine list, locally curated cocktails and house-made sodas will be the cherry on top of this bespoke new bar.

The Calile Hotel’s Lobby Bar is due to open this September – keep your eyes on The Weekend Edition for updates closer to the date.