By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs just got a serious upgrade for anyone who loves to eat, explore and linger. Meriton’s Pagewood Precinct has officially completed its final venues, transforming the space into a bustling hub that’s part everyday local, part weekend playground.
Winning UDIA NSW’s Best Mixed-use Development of 2025 was just the beginning. Now, with every restaurant open, three family-friendly parks in place and a heap of community activities, it’s a destination that feels alive, vibrant and seriously tasty.
Food is front and centre, with a line-up that spans Tokyo to Hanoi and Bangkok. Kokoroya, the cult Maroubra favourite, has made the leap east with its first Pagewood venue, introducing an exclusive Japanese breakfast alongside signature M9 Wagyu and grilled eel bowls.
Weekends just got a lot more tempting as you can now start your morning with perfectly curated sushi, bowls piled high with fresh ingredients, or giant eel served in a custom bowl beside the park.
Hong Kong Cafe brings the nostalgia of the city’s cha chaan tengs - casual Hong Kong-style diners that serve an affordable fusion of Western and Cantonese food - to Eastern Sydney. Think clay pots, sizzling steaks, baked rice, risotto and a viral-ready pandan French toast that’s Instagram gold. There’s a playful East-meets-West approach to every dish, from comforting Cantonese classics to inventive twists that keep things modern and light. The café nails casual, comforting vibes while still feeling like a proper culinary destination.
Northern Vietnamese cuisine fans, prepare to rejoice. Nem Viet has brought its fifth Sydney location to the precinct, serving fresh, balanced flavours straight from Hanoi. Bún ch?, crispy crab rolls and char-grilled meat feature on a menu designed to showcase the vibrancy of Vietnamese street food with all the polish of a fine dining experience. Owner Tracy Nguyen says it best: this is food that travels well, tastes amazing and feels wholesome without being fussy.
Thai Thae continues to cement its Sydney presence with bold, balanced Thai classics like papaya salad, tom yum soup and crispy Thai sweet and sour fried fish. The restaurant’s design and cultural touches transport guests from Eastgardens straight to Bangkok, adding to the precinct’s international flavour palette.
Pizza lovers, take note. Johnny Gio’s brings its first licensed venue to Pagewood, serving cult favourites like the burrata Queen and Johnny Vodka pizzas alongside a full alcohol menu. It’s a playful, indulgent addition that slots in perfectly with long-time favourites Chargrill Charlie’s, Al Aseel, C9 Desserts and Leaf Café, creating a precinct that’s equal parts everyday local and weekend treat.
It’s not all about food. Pagewood Precinct has been designed as a genuine community hub. Three playgrounds make it family-friendly, while weekly activities from Ready Steady Go Kids and a table tennis community encourage social connection and active fun. There’s a Coles Local for essentials, a pharmacy and medical centre, a specialist health and well-being studio and even a dog grooming salon. Every detail caters to modern urban life, blending convenience, style and social spaces into one lively, accessible destination.
With ample parking, modern amenities and excellent public transport links, Meriton Pagewood Precinct has firmly established itself as a place to eat, shop, play and stay. It’s a dining and lifestyle destination that feels curated yet casual, expansive yet community-focused and every visit promises something new to discover.
Whether it’s a weekday bite, a family outing or a weekend adventure, Pagewood is ready to be explored, savoured and enjoyed.
