10 Mar 2026
CULINARY MAGIC COMES TO THE SHIRE: CHEF NELLY ROBINSON ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE NEL POP-UP AT THE PINES, CRONULLA
This Autumn, the Shire’s coastline is set to meet the avant-garde artistry of one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs. After his sell-out dinner Bobby’s last year, Nelly Robinson, the visionary force behind Sydney’s famed NEL Restaurant is bringing the full NEL experience to The Pines precinct in Cronulla for a limited time residency.
Known for his whimsical storytelling and narrative-driven degustations, Chef Robinson will bring his city-chic menu to the seaside showcasing his signature culinary flair.
The residency will span across The Pines precinct, offering several ways for guests to experience NEL at the The Pines. The Pines main dining room will feature a curated, degustation menu focusing on refined coastal flavours and devotion to native ingredients. The residency will also feature the return of the iconic Sunday Roast, a signature staple for which Robinson is celebrated. At The Pines Terrace, this casual sister venue will transform into a vibrant Margarita Bar. This space will feature a curated snack menu and the "must-have" NEL burger, paired with killer cocktails right by the beach.
"I’ve always loved the energy of the Shire. I moved here with my wife Danielle (and business partner) and daughter three years ago. Now I am so excited to bring the storytelling and
layering of flavours of NEL to the Shire," says Chef Nelly Robinson.
"The Pines precinct is such an iconic space with a stunning backdrop. I wanted to create a menus which feel sophisticated, but approachable—dishes that surprise people but still feel right at home by the ocean."
The NEL pop-up promises an elevated yet relaxed, high-energy atmosphere paired with expert wine pairings and signature cocktails curated by The Pines’ award-winning bar team. The 10course degustation is $135pp and Sunday Roast (3 snacks, full roast dinner and dessert) $90pp. For stunning imagery click here.
Bookings for the NEL Pop-Up at The Pines precinct are expected to reach capacity quickly with the limited time residency running for 6 weeks only from April 9 to May 24. For The Pines bookings click HERE. For Sunday Roast bookings, click HERE
About Nelly Robinson: Nelly Robinson is the Executive Chef and owner of NEL. Restaurant. Since opening in 2015, he has earned international acclaim for his innovative approach to dining, consistently pushing the boundaries of traditional fine-dining with a focus on nostalgia and sensory experiences.
About The Pines Cronulla: The Pines precinct in Cronulla is a premium dining destination offering a sophisticated yet relaxed experience - and breathtaking ocean views.
For media enquiries, interviews or images, please contact: dana@nelrestaurant.com.au