Business Details
Your Ultimate Californian Dining Experience in Sydney
SoCal Sydney brings the vibrant essence of Southern California to Neutral Bay, blending fresh, modern cuisine with a laid-back surf vibe. Founded by hospitality veterans Hamish Watts and Ben Carroll after a transformative surf trip to California, our venue captures the golden state's culinary and cultural spirit. Our menu showcases share-style street food infused with Latin American spices, complemented by low-and-slow smoked meats, house-made sauces, and indulgent sides. Under the guidance of Head Chef Chris Webber and Amber Doig, we deliver a dynamic dining experience that merges Californian authenticity with Australian hospitality.From our extensive wine list to signature cocktails, every element reflects our commitment to quality and innovation. Whether celebrating Melbourne Cup under the palms or enjoying half-price tacos on Tuesdays, guests experience a unique fusion of flavour and atmosphere. Our loyalty app enhances customer engagement across Applejack Hospitality venues, ensuring memorable moments with every visit. As part of Applejack Hospitality Group, we uphold a tradition of excellence rooted in travel-inspired culinary adventures.
Services
Tacos
Cocktails
Happy Hour
Bottomless Fiesta
Event Catering
Highlights and features
- We offer authentic Californian cuisine inspired by extensive culinary travels.
- Our menu features collaborations between award-winning chefs with global experience.
- We host unique themed events like Melbourne Cup celebrations and bottomless fiestas.
- Our loyalty app provides exclusive rewards across multiple hospitality venues.
- We combine Australian ingredients with Californian cooking techniques for distinctive flavours.
Services
Tacos
Our signature tacos feature house-made tortillas filled with slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and zesty salsas. Every bite combines Californian authenticity with Australian produce. Perfect for casual dining or special promotions like Half-Price Taco Tuesdays.
Cocktails
Crafted by expert mixologists, our cocktail menu includes classic margaritas and innovative creations. The $16 Spritz Thursday promotion makes premium drinks accessible while maintaining Californian authenticity.
Happy Hour
Weekday happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetisers. Designed for professionals unwinding after work, this service combines value with our signature tropical ambiance and Californian hospitality.
Bottomless Fiesta
Available Friday and Saturday nights, this package includes unlimited drinks and share-style dishes. Ideal for group celebrations, it features dedicated service and vibrant atmosphere enhancements.
Event Catering
We host themed events like Melbourne Cup celebrations and New Year's Eve parties. Our venue accommodates private bookings with custom menus and entertainment options in a tropical-inspired setting.
People
Hamish Watts
Co-Founder
Co-founded SoCal Sydney after discovering Californian cuisine during a surf trip. Brings extensive hospitality experience from Applejack Hospitality Group to create authentic dining experiences.
Ben Carroll
Co-Founder
Travelled California's culinary scene before establishing SoCal Sydney. Combines surf culture passion with restaurant expertise to deliver unique tropical-Californian fusion concepts.
Chris Webber
Head Chef
Leads kitchen operations at SoCal Sydney, creating modern Californian dishes with Latin American influences. Collaborates with Applejack Hospitality's culinary team to develop innovative menus.
Questions
How do I book a table at SoCal Sydney Sydney?
Bookings can be made through our website or by calling +61 2 9904 5691. We recommend reserving in advance for weekends and special events.
What are the Melbourne Cup event details?
Our 2025 Melbourne Cup celebration includes themed packages under the palms. Check our website for specific inclusions and booking options.
Are there vegetarian/vegan options available?
Yes, we offer tofu fajitas and various plant-based dishes. Our menu includes multiple options for different dietary requirements.
How does the loyalty app work?
Download the Applejack Loyalty App to earn points across all group venues. Points can be redeemed for exclusive offers and dining rewards.
What makes SoCal Sydney's cocktails unique?
Our mixologists create signature drinks using fresh ingredients and Californian-inspired recipes. The $16 Spritz Thursday promotion showcases our creative cocktail expertise.
Reviews (6)
Alana Thompson
Jan 24, 2022
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The bottomless Rose lunch was so so delicious, we enjoyed everything that was brought out and the rose sangria was amazing. The service was by far the best, our sangria jug got refilled before we would think to ask and the staff were flexible with dietary requirements etc. There was no pressure to leave either, we ended up staying for more food and drinks. Great atmosphere, great food and great staff. Thank you!
Ryan Ware
Jan 23, 2022
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The food was great but the service wasn't great. First, had to prompt staff to order drinks that took a very long time to arrive. Once they did we didn't get menus until we had to get the attention of the staff, had to get attention again of a waiter wiping tables down to make the order. There was a birthday on and the staff seemed to only be focused on that, not the rest of the patrons. No leadership or order. In summary, kitchen staff great! Front of house running around like headless chooks.
Adrian Barnes
Dec 11, 2021
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Last minute booking for Xmas Eve for two handled with no issues. Balmy night so sat on the terrace, which is open to the sky but sheltered from the wind. Great cocktails and tasty share plates, all served by friendly staff. With COVID scares the venue was quiet for the last day before Xmas but the plus side was that our food arrived quickly. Couldn't fault the experience so we will be back!
Lea Collins
Oct 31, 2021
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Overrated. Booking error. Abrupt unfriendly wait staff. Rushed to leave for next seating. Cold and windy outside but no offer to assist by adding heating or closing the awning. Good mediocre. Wouldn’t go back.
Alanya Drummond
Oct 19, 2021
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We had the most amazing night at SoCal. We went for dinner with a group of friends and had the feast menu - delicious. We sat outside and there was a brilliant band playing until late that got everyone up dancing. One of our favourite local places to go out - great fun vibe, such lovely service and yummy food.
James Brooks
May 05, 2021
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I was pleasantly surprised. I went to a birthday for bottomless brunch and was surprised of the accommodation for vegan options. Their menu will quote only 1 or 2 vegan options, but they managed to make some nice cauliflower things and Tacos, grilled corn, and salads. I've been to a similar place and was woefully let down and it was a real bummer. The staff while obviously a little flustered by the sheer amount of..... Energy of our party - I think they were attentive and kind. I left full and satisfied, however the bottomless wine isn't vegan friendly which is a shame but you can't win them all
