For 120 years, a Gothic Revival church has stood in Rose Bay. Now, the beloved landmark is preparing for a bold new chapter as Levantine restaurant Aambra.
The red-brick church at 518a Old South Head Road has stood as a steadfast part of Rose Bay’s story. Erected in 1904 as the Rose Bay Methodist Church, the building marked the spread of Methodism into Sydney’s eastern suburbs at the turn of the 20th century.
It was built on land gifted by Hon. Ebenezer Vickery, a philanthropist and member of the New South Wales Legislative Council, who laid the foundation stone with hopes that the church would become a spiritual and social anchor for the growing community. Designed by A.L. & G. McCredie and Sons, the church reflected the Gothic Revival style, with its pointed arch windows, steep gables and intricate stained glass capturing the aspirations of the era.
The Rise, Growth and Legacy of a Local Landmark
As Rose Bay’s population grew, so too did the church’s role. In 1924 and again in 1929, expansions were undertaken by architects Dallas E. Walsh and Byera Hadley, adding the Wesley Hall and new community spaces.
For decades, the church served not only as a place of worship but also as a local hub, hosting Sunday schools, community meetings and events that helped shape the suburb’s identity. Inside, the soaring timber ceilings and original pews framed countless gatherings across generations, anchoring family and community life in the heart of Rose Bay.
By the early 21st century, however, congregations had dwindled, and by 2017, services ceased. The church’s doors closed, and the building, though structurally sound and protected by heritage listing, fell mostly silent. Occasional community activities continued, but the space awaited a new purpose that respected its history while breathing fresh life into its walls. That new chapter is now on the horizon, not as a place of worship, but as a gathering place of a different kind.
Aambra: A New Life for a Rose Bay Landmark
The former church is now being transformed into Aambra, a Levantine restaurant that aims to celebrate the flavours and warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality while preserving the soul of this historic site. Spearheaded by hospitality operator Cristian Gorgees, Aambra will accommodate around 140 to 150 guests in a space that marries old-world character with contemporary dining design.
The 10-metre cathedral ceilings, original arched doorways, and stained glass windows will remain, complemented by new lighting, marble details, and a glass-enclosed mezzanine for private dining. A timber deck, surrounded by greenery, will create an inviting alfresco dining area beneath the Sydney sky.
Preserving Heritage Through Design and Flavour
In the kitchen, Gianluca Lonati, formerly of Nour, will craft a menu inspired by the Levant — a region renowned for its shared plates and bold, spice-driven cooking. Diners can expect mezze platters, char-grilled meats, masgouf-style fish and slow-cooked lamb sfiha, alongside freshly baked breads and regionally inspired cocktails.
A curated wine list will feature premium Lebanese labels. A bar and open kitchen will bring diners closer to the action, allowing them to watch dishes and drinks prepared before their eyes.
Beyond the food, Aambra is envisioned as a community gathering place once more. The goal is not only to preserve the physical shell of the former church but also to revive its spirit as a venue where people come together — this time over shared meals rather than shared hymns. Gorgees sees the project as a chance to reconnect Rose Bay residents with a local landmark, bringing activity and flavour back into a building with deep community roots.
Aambra is expected to open in mid-November 2025, operating from Tuesday to Sunday, and promises to offer Rose Bay a new way to experience both its rich past and its vibrant present.
Published 14-Oct-2025
