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Frankie's Pizza Executive Jordan McDonald Programming Live Music At New NSW Venue

27 August 2025 | 12:31 pm | Mary Varvaris

"The aim is to bring the most popping vibe possible to the people of Balmain. And we will,” McDonald said.

The Atticus team: Michael Fegent, Tom Haynes, John Frid, Ricki Mackessack, Jordan McDonald, Mark Crawford, Kiki Ward

The Atticus team: Michael Fegent, Tom Haynes, John Frid, Ricki Mackessack, Jordan McDonald, Mark Crawford, Kiki Ward (Credit: Leigh Griffiths)

Balmain, New South Wales, is home to a new bistro and music venue, Elliott’s.

Making news of a new space opening in New South Wales even more exciting is the announcement that former Frankie’s Pizza executive and Director of NITE-RITE Entertainment, Jordan McDonald, will spearhead the venue’s live music programming.

The new venue, brought to Balmain by Atticus Hospitality – the team behind Sydney’s Esteban and tqm. – opens today. It sits on the iconic corner that was once home to Casa Esquina and offers a modern bistro experience, featuring Australian cuisine that merges with French and Italian influences.

Featuring a 225-capacity seated area – broken down to 100 people in the courtyard, 32 in the downstairs bar, 13 PDR, 60 in the upstairs dining room, and 20 on the balcony - Elliott’s is all about offering unforgettable moments to customers.

Patrons who visit the venue will enjoy an impressive selection of food, wine, cocktails, and dynamic live music. The space has undergone a dramatic transformation, featuring new interiors, a revamped courtyard, and a custom-built, partially retractable roof that makes year-round dining and entertainment in the elements possible.

The transformations at Elliott’s aren’t just a renovation, either. The venue has directly responded to the Inner West Council’s newly loosened live music laws, allowing it to operate as a hybrid social, dining and entertainment hub.

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Michael Fegent, Director of Atticus Hospitality, said, “We’ve always had this amazing outdoor area, and I’ve imagined it as a space where people could enjoy a meal or just come in for drinks and let their hair down with live bands and vinyl DJs bringing a festive, upbeat vibe.

“When council finally approved the courtyard cover this year and live music rules changed, it was the perfect moment to bring that vision to life.”

The live music program at Elliott’s kicks off in September, but patrons will see surprise and soft-launch performances from the venue’s opening today. You can head to the venue website for more information on live music, food, bookings, and more.

Elliott’s will welcome vinyl DJs every weekend and live acts every Saturday, primarily showcasing Australia’s finest funk, soul, boogie, and blues personalities.

“I love that Atticus have pounced so quickly on these brand-new live music reforms; the aim is to bring the most popping vibe possible to the people of Balmain. And we will,” McDonald explained.

“The atmosphere in this place is pretty special, it’s that blend of buzzy service, high calibre food and drink and masterful performance that you don’t often find hanging out under the one roof. I think the neighbourhood’s gonna love this, but I’m excited to give music fans another compelling reason to visit Balmain also.”

McDonald added, “Guests can either book a table or roll right in off the street and find masters of their craft at work, it’s a place for seasoned cats to share their magic, connect with audience and unify the room through music.”

Elliott’s Balmain

Opening Hours: Wed – Sat: 12 pm – 12 am | Sun: 12 pm – 10 pm | Closed Mon & Tue. Bookings encouraged, walk-ins welcome.

September Live Music Line-Up:

  • Saturday 6 September – Andro Martinez’ BOOMERANG

  • Saturday 13 September – Par3 Album Launch

  • Saturday 20 September – Mitch Anderson

  • Saturday 27 September – The Wrayfarers + Nic & His Hotshots

Plus DJs Hot Fuss, Long John Disco, Foxy Fuzz, King OPP, Nitecall, Jack Shit, Soup and many more.