Alibi: Plant-based indulgence at Ovolo Woolloomooloo

In a city as diverse and beautiful as Sydney, it can be difficult to discover a venue that's truly distinctive. Alibi, Ovolo Woolloomooloo’s newest cocktail bar and eatery, is a venue that is capturing the attention of Sydneysiders for its bold approach to food and drink.

The menu at Alibi is 100% plant-based. As in, all of it. Proteins, greens, savouries and sweets – the entire menu, from canapés to desserts, is plant-based.

The menu was developed under the guidance of US-based chef and restaurateur Matthew Kenney.

Kenney, a pioneer of plant-based cuisine, believes Sydney is the ideal place for his first concept restaurant in Australia.

“The lifestyle is already here, the products are here and the quality of ingredients is incredible,” says Kenney.

Kenney and his team of chefs will be using these quality, locally-sourced ingredients to create exciting modern classics such as: lasagne with zucchini, macadamia ricotta and pistachio pesto; steamed buns with smoked King Oyster mushroom, cashew hoisin and pickled cucumber; and green herb tacos with pepita cream and barbacoa mushrooms.

It’s a menu that traverses the world, putting a creative spin on global classics like tiramisu, dumplings and raclette, all the while keeping its environmental footprint to a minimum. By mainly opting for locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable ingredients, it’s a menu that’s good for guests, and the planet.

“With choosing this plant-based direction, we feel that we're helping to minimise the impact on the environment,” says Ovolo Hotels Group Executive Chef, Kasper Christensen. “The menu gives locally-sourced plant-based ingredients a creative makeover and lets it shine on the table.”

This commitment is being carried into events catering at Ovolo Woolloomooloo. No more will vegetarian and vegan guests have to hunt down the single waiter carrying one tray of plant-based canapés.

“For our events package, we've expanded the variety. It now includes a large amount of plant based-dishes, including sit down and canapé-style events,” says Kasper.  

“We also have created a Alibi banquet eight course sharing menu that we will offer to larger groups dining in our private dining room.”

The plant-based concept behind Alibi is quite a bold direction for any venue to move in. More so when you consider Alibi is housed within a hotel.

Traditionally, hotels lean heavily on the classics – brasserie style bars and grills and buffets.

The team at Ovolo, however, are fans of taking the traditional, and adding a modern twist.

Located on a finger wharf, stretching into the harbour, Ovolo Woolloomooloo shines a light on its heritage origins, while seamlessly integrating modern features for maximum comfort.

The space at Alibi incorporates these elements, while also focussing on the concept behind the menu.  

“We want guests to feel immersed in the experience, but still maintain that casual vibe.” says Ovolo Woolloomooloo Conference and Sales Manager Joanna Hillier. “We have created a relaxed lounge-style restaurant and bar that celebrates all things green to really complement the concept behind Alibi.”

This casual dining space, with its bright and modern interior, is sure to be a popular option with Sydneysiders for events, especially when the weather really starts to  warm up.

This winning combination of atmosphere, a healthy and beautiful menu and stunning interior means this venue is sure to be a drawcard for spectacular events.

“Sydney already has so much to offer and we wanted to set ourselves apart from being ‘just another venue’. It’s also a city that prides itself on lifestyle and healthy living,” says Joanna.

“We all love going out and meeting up with friends over dinner. So, why not combine those elements and give Sydneysiders a brand new concept?”

A concept that is starting to capture the eye of Sydneysiders, and events industry professionals alike.

Looking for a unique space for your next event? The team at Ovolo Woolloomooloo can help >>