SRG Hospitality, the Sydney-based restaurant group behind waterfront dining destinations including Aqua Dining, has secured its first hotel partnership, taking over all food and beverage operations at The Langham, Sydney.
The deal represents a significant expansion for the 25-year-old family business, which will manage the luxury hotel’s restaurant, bar, event spaces, and in-room dining effective immediately. The partnership also marks a generational transition, with founder Bill Drakopoulos stepping back from day-to-day operations as his sons Daniel and Perry assume co-managing director roles.
SRG will initially operate the existing concepts—currently known as Kitchen on Kent restaurant and The Observatory Bar—before launching a complete transformation in 2026. A reimagined restaurant with a new design and culinary direction will open in February, followed by a revamped cocktail bar later in the year.
To lead the restaurant refresh, SRG has tapped Sam Tuchband as head chef. Tuchband brings experience from London’s Trinity and Sydney’s Franca and Aria, and will bring what the group describes as a “refined European sensibility” to the menu. He joins a leadership team that includes restaurant general manager Jessica Vertes, sommelier Matthew Cridge, and executive chef Christopher Dodd.
A natural extension for SRG
“Entering the hotel space is a natural extension of our restaurant roots,” said Daniel Drakopoulos, SRG managing director. “This opportunity to reimagine the restaurant, bar and event spaces allows us to bring our dining DNA into a world-class hotel setting – creating experiences that are as thoughtful and beautiful as they are memorable. It’s an exciting new chapter for our team.”
Founder Bill Drakopoulos said the partnership represents “an exciting evolution – expanding our footprint from the waterfront into one of Sydney’s most prestigious hotel addresses.”
“The Langham is a globally recognised icon of luxury, warmth and timeless style. For 25 years, SRG has built a brand grounded in genuine hospitality and memorable experiences. Our shared commitment to excellence and guest connection makes this partnership a natural fit,” he said.
Harvey Thompson, managing director of The Langham Sydney, said: “SRG’s expertise and vision align with our mission to offer guests a world-class hospitality experience. We are confident this collaboration will deliver something truly exceptional for both Sydney locals and international visitors alike.”
Founded in 2000, SRG has built a portfolio of dining concepts along Sydney’s waterfront. The family-run business now includes founder Bill Drakopoulos, his wife Kathleen, and their four children as directors. Bill has opened more than 30 venues across Sydney during his 40-plus-year hospitality career.
The Langham is located at 89-113 Kent Street in Millers Point. Additional details about the new restaurant and bar concepts will be announced ahead of the February opening.
