A guided evening of expertly matched drams and food in the heart of Sydney
Sydney, Aug 2026. Every year, the whisky dinner at The Ternary sells out, and this year was no different. Once again, we teamed up with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society for an evening built around good food, great whisky and the kind of conversation that only happens when a room full of people are holding something worth talking about.
This was our [number, to be confirmed]th year hosting the dinner at Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, and it keeps getting harder to fit everyone in. A big thank you to every guest who joined us, especially the regulars who book each year and the first timers who took a chance on a night of whisky and food.
What is a whisky pairing dinner?
A whisky pairing dinner is a multi-course meal where each dish is matched with a different whisky. The aim is for the food and the dram to bring out the best in each other. A smoky malt might sit beside something rich and savoury, while a lighter, fruitier whisky might suit a fresher course. Through the evening, a host guides the table through each pairing with stories and tasting notes.
At The Ternary, that means no experience is needed. Whether you’ve been collecting bottles for years or you’re simply curious, you’ll learn something and probably find a new favourite.
How the night went
Guests arrived to a welcome dram and settled in for 6 courses, each paired with a whisky selected with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Between courses, our host talked through the story behind each pour, what to look for on the nose and the palate, and why it worked with the plate in front of you.
The room was warm and social, which is exactly how we like it. Strangers ended up swapping tasting notes by the second course, and by dessert most tables were comparing favourites.
Why guests keep coming back
A few reasons come up again and again in what guests tell us:
- The pairings. Each dram is matched to its course with care, so you taste why it works.
- The stories. You leave knowing more about whisky than when you arrived.
- The seat count. We keep numbers limited, so the night stays personal.
- The setting. Dinner in the heart of Sydney, close to Darling Harbour, the CBD and ICC Sydney.
It also happens to be a great gift. Many guests have booked for a birthday, an anniversary or a night out with a group of mates.
Join us at the next whisky dinner
The next dinner will sell out too, so don’t wait. Seats are limited and past dinners have filled up well before the date.
Date: “to be announced”
Where: The Ternary, Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, 100 Murray Street
Stay on the loop: https://theternary.com.au/whatson/
Questions: https://theternary.com.au/contact/
Frequently asked questions:
What is the Scotch Malt Whisky Society dinner at The Ternary?
It is an annual whisky pairing dinner at The Ternary in Sydney, hosted with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. Guests enjoy a multi-course meal with a matched whisky for each course, plus stories and tasting notes from the host.
How long has The Ternary hosted a whisky dinner?
The Ternary has hosted the dinner for 9 years, and it has sold out every year.
Do I need to know about whisky to attend?
No. The dinner suits both beginners and experienced whisky lovers. The host explains each whisky and why it was chosen for the dish.
How much does the whisky dinner cost?
Pricing is announced with each event
Where is the whisky dinner held?
At The Ternary, inside Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW.
How do I book the next whisky dinner?
Visit our website at https://theternary.com.au/whatson/ Seats are limited and the dinner usually sells out.
About The Ternary
Inspired by the Latin word Ternarius, meaning “three at once,” The Ternary brings together a bold grill, vibrant Asian flavours, and a relaxed wine bar under one roof, all with sweeping views of the Sydney skyline and Darling Harbour.
Led by award-winning Culinary Director Anthony Flowers, The Ternary is known across Sydney for its open kitchen, seasonal menus, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for private dining, corporate events, and celebrations in Darling Harbour.
About the Scotch Malt Whisky Society
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was formed in 1983 and gives its members access to whiskies hand-picked by an expert Tasting Panel from over 140 distilleries in Scotland and beyond. Every bottling is at cask strength. Members can also join tasting events, Members’ Rooms and partner bars around the world.
