Bondi Icebergs: Fresh terrace plans revealed

Icebergs has launched a fresh bid to revamp its terrace and allow guests to mingle outdoors with mood music at night – and the owner says it’s also to protect against climate change.

The proposed new terrace for Bondi institution Icebergs Dining Room and Bar can be seen on the top floor far left

Bondi’s iconic Icebergs Dining Room and Bar has launched a renewed bid to spruce up their outdoor terrace and allow guests to mingle with music until late.

The famed Italian restaurant, which overlooks Sydney’s favourite ocean pool, lodged and then withdrew a similar development application last May after feedback from Waverley Council officers.

Owner Maurice Terzini told the Wentworth Courier he had taken the feedback seriously.

Maurice Terzini. Photo: John Appleyard.

“We reviewed all objections and we believe we took advice and acted accordingly,” Mr Terzini said.

“We run a world class international restaurant and landmark adding value to the area. Icebergs is not a nightclub and has never been.”

With its enviable sea frontage, Mr Terzini is also cognisant they are exposed to the elements of the world’s changing climate.

“Covering the back terrace also allows for health and safety with climate change,” Mr Terzini said.

“I want to be able to hand over a sustainable business to the next custodians of this amazing site.”

An artist impression of the proposed new terrace.

Last year’s application called for permission to play “amplified music” and consume alcohol on the terrace – both of which have been dropped from the new proposal.

This time the $1.3 million plans are to enclose the terrace, which will boast a new bar and toilets, and allow the already approved number of 60 patrons to use it until 10pm in the absence of alcohol while enjoying “background music”.

Currently, guests are only allowed on the terrace until 8pm during daylight savings and 6pm for the rest of the year but can remain inside the restaurant until midnight.

An acoustic report by Renzo Tonin & Associates commissioned by Icebergs which has been lodged with the council states the toned down plans “can satisfy the relevant noise criteria”.

The proposed changes to Bondi institution Icebergs Dining Room and Bar as viewed from Notts Ave

The renovations, designed by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti, will also “revitalise” the Notts Ave frontage of the restaurant to complement the work being done by council on the cul-de-sac.

“The proposal will enhance the presentation of the building to council‘s upgraded public domain,” documents read.

The overall capacity of the restaurant, which stands at 250 people, will remain unchanged.

A report before the council authored by GSA Planning states the restaurant is also seeking approval for minor internal renovations.

“The existing bathrooms will be reconstructed, and the existing bar space at the southern portion of the dining room will be replaced with additional bathrooms,” the report reads.

Icebergs Dining Room and Bar has been operating since 2002 and regularly attracts a star studded clientele along with those hoping for some Instagram worthy selfies above the backdrop of the picturesque pool.