Cargo reopening in Darling Harbour
One of Sydney’s longest running nightclubs makes a glittering return to Darling Harbour after a full glow-up, with a slick new look and hot DJ line-up.
Almost 24 years on from originally opening its doors, Sydney clubbing icon, Cargo will officially rejoin King Street Wharf on Friday 31 May, 2024, following an extensive four-month renovation. With a legacy spanning over two vibrant decades, the waterfront institution, famed for its Wharf side beer garden and legendary club nights’, will unveil a new look over its sprawling two-levels including major updates to the Ground Floor Main Room and Level 1 Lounge featuring cutting-edge lighting and sound systems, a luxe VIP area, and new bar, lounge and dining spaces, including the revamped al fresco beer garden.
From day-to-night, Cargo offers an unparalleled experience as THE waterfront destination for drinking, dining, and dancing on Darling Harbour. Since opening in August 2000, Cargo has played host to some of the best party crews in Sydney, from live music nights, headline DJ sets and its legendary annual Halloween Party. On the Ground Floor (Main Room), the spirit of Cargo’s legendary dance hall lives on with renewed high octane nightclub energy thanks to a sleek, LED-lit bar, state-of-the-art DJ booth equipped with advanced AV technology and LED screens. The new-look décor is grown up but playful with neutral tones and splashes of green against light timber furniture to lighten and brighten the space.
Dynamic LED lighting hangs above the central dance floor, illuminating the party below and upgraded sound systems create a world-class, immersive, 360-degree experience. A captivating, large-scale mural painting by artist Justine McAllister adorns the wall leading to the Level 1 Lounge, capturing the vibrancy and fun of the Main Room. Versatile, fluid furniture allows for casual dining during the day with an easy transition into a club at night with capacity for 500 revellers. Open ‘til late Sunday through to Thursday and 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, Cargo will continue to host the hottest local DJ acts in its new space.
The iconic Beer Garden has been rejuvenated, boasting a full awning for al fresco dining all year round, and new, outdoor furniture, including high-bars with tiled-tops and colourful chairs to add a pop of colour for a fun, Palm Springs vibe. New pavers, planter boxes and lush greenery also elevate the outdoor dining experience with panoramic views of Darling Harbour – the perfect spot for lunch on the Wharf or a post-work cocktail.
A vast bar, wrapped in emerald-veined marble with luxe emerald-hued carpet and furnishings evoke a mysterious yet exclusive atmosphere on the newly revamped Level 1. Here you’ll find a VIP exclusive area, designed to feel like a snug, secret drinking den for larger groups, it is complete with an entrance lined in wooden batten panelling and booth style seating. Creating a secondary space for private events, as well as being open to playgoers and party makers, the Level 1 Lounge can accommodate up to 400 guests with its own top-of-the-line DJ booth and separate sound system.
Cargo will relaunch will a new all-day menu of casual eats, served from lunch ‘til late. Curated by Executive Chef Jason Roberson, a wave of new dishes including hero snacks and substantial mains such as Crispy chicken wings served two ways – opt for a smoky-sweet Maple and Bourbon glaze or Buffalo-style with blue cheese sauce; Crumbed chicken schnitzel burger served in a potato bun with fries; Japanese eggplant bowl with miso roasted eggplant, zucchini ribbons and roasted peppers; and Crispy fish tacos with shredded iceberg, pineapple, red onion and chilli mayo. The sharing board, a great option for larger groups and post-work nibbles, features crowd favourites including popcorn chicken, salt & pepper squid, pumpkin dip, grilled pita, crispy wings, wedges, fries, and dipping sauces.
Weekly $25 specials will run daily from Monday through to Friday. Served with a complimentary house beer, wine, or soft drink, meal deals include Monday pizzas, taco Tuesdays, Wednesday burgers, Thursday schnitty’s and 1KG wings on Fridays. The drinks menu will boast an array of classic and inventive cocktails, including Aperol Spritz, Amaretto Sour, Tommys Margarita, and French Martini, along with Cargo’s signature shots such as Whamaretto, Skittle Bomb, and Birthday Cake.
Cargo is synonymous with great food, endless parties, late nights, and always a good time. Darling Harbour nightlife royalty, Cargo remains the life and soul of Sydney nightlife after two decades on the Wharf. From long lunches and daytime drinks to electric nights with local DJs bringing the beats, this new era for Cargo makes it the ultimate destination for unforgettable experiences. On Friday 31 May, join Cargo as it embarks on a bold, new chapter and officially reopens all levels to the public from 9pm.
Throughout VIVID, Cargo will also host a spectacular fire and light show every Friday and Saturday from 8pm – 1am. Expect high-spec productions to run throughout the evening with shooting flames catapulted from the outside awning for all to see, plus the Cargo Candy Shop is back for another year! Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5pm – 12am, VIVID visitors to King Street Wharf can grab on the go snacks and sweets from the pop-up tuck shop, including hot dogs, fresh popcorn, candy floss and a curated selection of lollies. Stay tuned for VIVID themed club nights with DJ acts to be announced shortly.
Cargo
52-60 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour
Open Sun – Thurs (12pm – late) | Fri – Sat (12pm – 3am)