There’s a new rhythm pulsing through the GPO in Sydney’s CBD, and it’s got nothing to do with samba clichés or tequila shots. Morena, which opened in April 2024, is here to rewrite the script on Latin American dining. Elevated, absolutely, but without losing any of the flavour or fire that defines South and Central American cuisine.

Latin American flavours

Executive Chef Alejandro Saravia, known for championing Peruvian cuisine, has widened the culinary lens with Morena, pulling in flavours from all over Latin America, from Mexico and Colombia to Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, and, of course, Peru. And it works. There are no messy mashups, just smart, thoughtful dishes that hit you with flavour and personality.

The menu opens with bold, coastal confidence. A ceviche of snapper and Fremantle octopus arrives zinging with aji limo tiger’s milk, its citrus heat softened by sweet potato while salmon tiradito goes delicate and silky, the richness cut by bright escabeche and pickled carrot. Small plates follow and pack plenty of attitude. The Wagyu tartare is smooth and punchy, lifted by a whisper of cognac emulsion, while the smoked eggplant arepa surprises with its earthiness and just enough chilli to tingle.

The mains hit all the right notes. The lomo saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry of wok-seared beef, comes rich and caramelised, lifted by tomato and onion. For a heartier touch, the spanner crab chupe wraps udon noodles in briny warmth. Sides pull their weight with criolla potatoes bring punchy green heat from uchucuta sauce, and a coconut titote rice with young coconut meat and pecans adding a surprisingly lush element to the meal.

Desserts strike a rare balance of restraint and indulgence. The flan, dusted with cinnamon and topped with a port meringue, melts into memory, while the ricotta tart offers a crisp, creamy finish topped with a citrus crumble and just enough ice cream to make it sing.

The drinks list also stands strong, featuring a thoughtfully curated selection of New and Old World wines, alongside signature cocktails that focus on Latin American spirits.

Morena’s Journey tasting menu

If you want to let the chef lead the way, Morena’s Journey is a curated tasting menu that traverses across Latin America. Each course presents distinctive regional specialties, from the delicate scallop empanada with roe cream and young Gouda to smoky ox tongue anticuchos finished with traditional sauces. Mains feature a premium Wagyu scotch fillet alongside vibrant seasonal greens dressed with Brazil nuts and tender steamed grouper accented with chilli jam, egg gribiche, and criole sauce.

Bold, thoughtful and unforgettable

Bold yet approachable, sophisticated yet friendly, Morena is a place where authentic flavours meet careful, thoughtful craftsmanship, every dish thoughtfully layered, paying homage to tradition while welcoming fresh, modern twists.  The whole experience is effortless and inviting, encouraging you to relax and enjoy without distraction.