Culina at COMO Dempsey: A European-inspired food market and bistro under one roof

There are plenty of reasons to why people swarm to Dempsey, which in itself is an island on its own. Cue the strenuous steps uphill and at times, a few circles around the barracks just to get to our final destination. Yet, the secluded enclave is still booming on a regular. A good part of that credit falls onto COMO Dempsey. Never underestimate the clout of a notable brand, especially when it has birthed a new concept on its own.

Following the likes of Dover Street Market, The Dempsey Cookhouse & Bar and COMO Cuisine, is Culina — a new European-inspired market hall of fresh food, produce, ingredients that include meats, seafood, charcuterie, cheese delicatessen, vegetables, fruits and condiments. Basically, a curated supermarket spruced with a fine wine cellar as well as a permanent floral fixture by Sydney's renowned boutique, Grandiflora.

The real difference between this haven and your heartland finest, is bounded by the specialty supplied with each produce, which are all scoured from the deepest provenance around the world. Shoppers won't just be filling their baskets but also picking up pockets of advice from chefs and food insiders at the helm.

Culina also invites you to linger on, even after picking up the essentials. In fact, your market buys can be easily savoured on the spot, with the luxury of being a part-bistro where you can kick back, go crazy on fluffy baked goods and cheeses, with a hot cuppa on the side. No surprises here, but will we visit this fancy market that's clearly out of the way? Heck yes, and while we're there, we'll make a day out of it. DSM's first on our list.

15 Dempsey Rd, Tel: 6474 7338
Opening hours: 11am-11pm