Media Release
The Point Group, which recently announced the long-term lease of historic Fort Denison in Sydney Harbour and the landmark Shell House building in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, are thrilled to welcome acclaimed chef Joel Bickford as culinary director across the two properties.
Joel, who was executive chef at Aria Sydney for more than four years, will work closely with The Point’s co-founder and director, Brett Robinson, to create casual and approachable dining experiences at Shell House Dining Room & Terrace and the Sky Bar Rooftop, when they open in October.
Brett says, “I am thrilled to announce one of the country’s most respected culinary talents, as the culinary director of these two major Sydney hospitality projects. Joel’s vast experience, creativity and dedication to quality, accompanied by his belief in our vision to create two world class dining destinations for Sydney, is such an important milestone and gives our team so much confidence.”
Growing up in a small rural town in the outskirts of Sydney’s rural Blue Mountains, Joel’s less-is-more approach to cooking is rooted in a lifelong connection to nature and a deep reverence for his ingredients and their unique regional qualities. His cooking style showcases seasonal Australian ingredients, with a razor-sharp balance between simplicity, extravagance and innovation.
Joel says, “I am really looking forward to joining Brett and his team at The Point Group. The team’s vision to breathe new life into two remarkable Sydney buildings is so exciting and the perfect next step in my career. It’s a great opportunity for me to challenge myself and work alongside a progressive, dynamic and forward-thinking team of people and I’m excited about creating these important new dining experiences for Sydney at a time when we all need some inspiration.”
Laidback luxury and a nod to the architectural and cultural heritage of the building are the overarching features of the e multi-level offering at Shell House, which is due to open in October (pending lockdown restrictions). The Menzies Bar on the ground floor will provide a contemporary take on the classic all-day dining bar and bistro. The Dining Room on level nine, is the heart of Shell House, and will feature a large open kitchen and light filled indoor-outdoor dining room and terrace, with a world class cocktail bar within the iconic 400 tonne clock tower.
The rooftop will showcase a Mediterranean-inspired sky bar with 360-degree views of the CBD.
Located in the middle of Sydney Harbour with uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Fort Denison Dining, due to open in 2022, is the next exciting project for The Point Group. The focus for Joel and his team will be to deliver a distinctive perspective on modern Australian dining, showcasing sustainable seafood, local producers and artisans in one of the most unique locations in the country.
Shell House is slated to open in October, pending lockdown restrictions. Fort Denison Dining will open in September 2022.
