Alfie’s by Tom Mark Henry

Words by Peter Bain
Photography by Damian Bennett

In a daring departure from tradition, Tom Mark Henry’s latest project, Alfie’s in Sydney, redefines the very essence of decadence in a steakhouse that boldly challenges preconceptions.

Infused with the spirit of London’s East End and fuelled by the beats of old UK grime, Alfie’s reflects a brutalist and utilitarian ethos. The design seamlessly integrates often-overlooked materials like blueboard sheeting, stainless steel and fibreboard with stone and commissioned pieces by local artists. This fusion incorporates elements of streetwear, graffiti and a distinctive raw, unpolished aesthetic, creating a streetwise charm that sets the tone for an unconventional and invigorating atmosphere.

The transparent blood-red ageing room emerges as a captivating feature, elevating steaks into culinary masterpieces displayed as works of art in a gallery.

Delving further into Alfie’s uncovers Tom Mark Henry’s masterful design, deftly channelling the laid-back energy of East London into the dining room. The addition of exclusive artworks – including those by Melbourne-based artist Steven John Clark – projections and a DJ booth orchestrate a transformative experience, pushing boundaries beyond the typical European steakhouse atmosphere. Notably, the transparent blood-red ageing room emerges as a captivating feature, elevating steaks into culinary masterpieces displayed as works of art in a gallery.

In stark contrast to traditional steakhouses, Alfie’s boldly reimagines the dining experience. Melding urban artistry with a working-class aesthetic, the approach invites guests to savour not only the cuisine but also the raw beauty of the materials surrounding them. This emphasis on authenticity and human connection resonates throughout the space, challenging norms and creating an environment that genuinely captivates the senses.

Alfie’s challenges boundaries, offering an experience that seamlessly blends a rule-breaking design with vibrant culinary innovation.

Merging innovation with familiarity, Alfie’s rethinks steakhouse elegance. It challenges boundaries, offering an experience that seamlessly blends a rule-breaking design with vibrant culinary innovation. In every aspect, the eatery embodies the spirit of Tom Mark Henry’s commitment to creating spaces that inspire, enrich and challenge conventional expectations.

Interior design by Tom Mark Henry. Build by Green Anvil Co. Brand design by SQUAD. Artwork by Steven John Clark.