Sean Connolly
Ever since he found himself as the only boy in his school's home economics classes in
Yorkshire, Sean Connolly has been passionate about cooking. Inspired by his
grandmother's cooking, Connolly started his chef's apprenticeship at the Pennine Hilton,
Ainley Top in Leeds, working for free two nights a week from the ages of thirteen to sixteen.
After continuing his apprenticeship in various restaurants throughout the UK, Connolly found
his calling during his tenure at the Princess Grill, aboard the world's most luxurious cruise
ship, the QE2. It was there that Connolly developed his love of luxury, catering for the rich,
the famous and the fussy, who were able to order outside of his menu, according to their
individual tastes, on any day.
Arriving in Australia in 1988 on a working holiday, Connolly soon fell in love with the local
weather, produce and burgeoning food scene. After various sous chef roles, Sean's talent
quickly led to his appointment at Star City's Astral in 1995. With its spectacular 270 degree
panoramic views across the city and harbour, Sean has worked hard over the past 13 years
to position the restaurant as one of Sydney's top fine dining destination restaurants.
With a modern European influence, Sean's menu reflects his commitment to fresh, local
produce. Guests enjoy many dining options, from the customised menu in the breathtaking
private dining room to the fast and fabulous pre-theatre dishes. However, Connolly's
versatile talent is surely best on show with Astral's tasting menu in the restaurant's main
dining room.
Upon naming Sean the 2008 Sydney Morning Herald Chef of the Year, co-editor Joanna
Savill noted: "Blessed with sound technique, wit, imagination and the intelligence not to try
too hard, Connolly continues to entertain and please us," and it is this "potential for even
greater things and sheer bloody talent" that ensures his star will continue to rise.
Recent accolades include:
• Chef's Hat, 2007 & 2008 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards
• Chef of the Year, 2008 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards
• Chef of the Year, 2006 & 2007 Australian Hotels Association Awards for Excellence
• Best Restaurant of the Year, 2007 AHA Awards
• Best Fine Dining Restaurant in a Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence
NSW & ACT 2007