Applications open for The Lab Kitchen residency program

Sydney’s House of Pocket is taking applications for its three month residency program in The Lab Kitchen.

The venue, located YCK Laneways at 414 Kent Street, Sydney, is made up of two spaces: the street-frontage space that is on offer, including a kitchen and small dining area; and cocktail venue Button Bar out the back.

“We feel this [three month pop up] will give you enough time to test your product,” says House of Pocket. The team adds it’s not too long – in case things don’t go to plan.

Successful applicants will receive:

An approximately 40sqm space
D.A. approved hours of 7 am to 2 am (the following day), Monday to Sunday inclusive
Small Bar License, with Minor Authorisation approved hours from 10 am to 2 am, seven days a week
Kitchen equipment, detailed in the draft agreement
Full-time staff, detailed in the draft agreement
A small cocktail menu can be provided to complement the food, if desired.
Other essentials including Point of Sale, merchant facility, third-party platforms (Uber Eats, etc.), booking system, and compliance systems
General maintenance of equipment
Access to House of Pocket’s marketing channels

Applicants will need to provide:

A police check
$20M Public Liability Insurance
A fair contribution, worked out pro-rata based on floor space
A signed agreement
Your own accounts set up with wholesalers
Following the provided plan of management and compliance systems
Current RSA, Food Handler, and any other relevant certifications
Compliance with food safety, OH&S, liquor regulations, and other relevant regulatory requirements

Opportunity closes 30 Jun 2026. Find out more about The Lab Kitchen and apply here.