NSW Parliamentary Catering Experiences
Parliamentary catering history
Parliamentary catering is the culinary heartbeat of NSW Parliament House, offering both in- house events and day-to-day catering services for not only members and staff but the general public and corporate clientele.
Steeped in a rich history of hosting dignitaries, the esteemed guest list spans heads of state, world leaders, consul generals, ambassadors, Hollywood stars, and British royalty. The late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, Prince Edward, Duke of Wessex, the Dalai Lama, and Audrey Hepburn have all graced the tables curated by Parliamentary Catering.
The kitchen team for over a century, has been characterised by its exceptional talent and extensive experience, prides itself in providing excellent service to all guests. With a commitment to showcasing the diverse flavours and unique food and wine regions of NSW, the team also proudly supports local communities practising ethical and sustainable farming methods.
Parliamentary catering today
Parliamentary catering stands as a beacon of exceptional dining experiences with its public offerings, including our award-winning Strangers’ Restaurant and the Public Cafe (closed for renovations until April 2024). These venues immerse diners in a world of exquisite food complemented by art and history. The ever-evolving seasonal menus continue to spotlight regional, rural and indigenous delicacies, reinforcing the commitment to supporting communities across NSW.
This past year has seen parliamentary catering host a roster of distinguished guests, with Princess Astrid of Belgium and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, gracing the tables and they continue to be trusted by heads of state, world leaders, consul generals, and ambassadors.
Parliamentary Catering also supports ethical and sustainable practices and continues to support those in need with their long-running partnership with OzHarvest.
The NSW Parliamentary Gift Shop, an extension of parliamentary catering’s commitment to local communities, has expanded its range to include indigenous, rural and cultural merchandise.
Parliamentary catering’s success
Parliamentary catering’s dedication to culinary excellence has not gone unnoticed:
- 2023: Winner of the NSW Best Contemporary Australian Restaurant, awarded by The Restaurant and Catering Association.
- 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020: Consistently awarded Two Glass Rating (Excellent) by the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards.
- 2022: Winner of the NSW Chef of the Year, recognised by The Restaurant and Catering Association.
- Readers’ Choice Awards: Strangers’ Restaurant has been nominated by the Australian Good Food Guide.
- Accreditation: Parliamentary Catering holds a Gold Licensed Accreditation with HACCP Certification.Parliamentary catering’s success is a testament to its unwavering commitment to culinary mastery, supporting the people of NSW and a legacy of hosting some of the world’s most distinguished guests.Statistics (2022 – 2023)
- 54,730 coffees sold, which equates to 1630 kg of ground coffee beans
- 13,701 meals served in Strangers’ Restaurant
- 1300 scones baked and served
- 2157 high tea diners
- 999 functions coordinated with 51,707 attendees
- 136 charity and non-for-profit events hosted.
