Heritage Paddo pub gets million dollar makeover

Heritage Paddington pub The Royal Hotel has just been given a million dollar makeover across all four levels. 

The Royal sits at the Five Ways junction, with the historic building dating back to 1888 and reign of Queen Victoria. 

The hotel was purchased by Public House Management Group in 2015 and work started on the renovations last year. 

Starting from the ground up, the Royal’s sports bar has been expanded to take over the previous bottle shop area and provides multi-screen viewing for sports lovers. 

On level one is the popular Veranda Bar and Balcony, and one floor up is the Elephant Bar, which is dedicated to private events and functions. 

The jewel in the crown is The Royal’s rooftop with views over the Sydney city skyline, 

With the new-look Royal comes a fresh menu, designed by PHMG executive chef Scott Greve. 

Classics like the Royal burger, LPs hot dog and steak frites with Café de Paris butter complement more modern dishes like the Poke Bowl. 

There are a range of regular offerings, including Monday-Friday happy hour from 4-6pm with $6.50 house wine, beer and bubbles and a Monday-Sunday bottomless dinner from 5.30pm-7.30pm every evening with a a two-course sharing menu including bottomless selected cocktails, wines and beer for $105 per person. 

Traditional Sunday roasts are another favourite. 

The wine list, however, is disappointing with a very limited choice by the glass and, peculiarly, one one wine from the Hunter Valley and none from anywhere else in NSW. Some serious work is needed here.  

See www.royalhotel.com.au

Images: Maria Boyadgis 

Sydney's $44 million facelift for Chinatown and Haymarket

Sydney's Chinatown/Haymarket precinct was looking decidedly down at heel when I visited a few weeks ago.

The Haymarket and Chinatown are now set for a $44 million facelift, with ambitious plans for the area endorsed unanimously by the City of Sydney Council.

The Haymarket and Chinatown Revitalisation Strategy and Public Domain Plan were shaped by one of the largest multilingual consultations in the City’s history, with more than 1,150 residents, businesses and community members taking part in discussions over the early plans and 350 responses to the formal public exhibition.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the community warmly welcomed the City’s commitment to more space for people walking, sitting and dining outdoors, creative lighting, support for business and recognition of Asian culture.

“Haymarket is one of Sydney’s most iconic urban villages and has long been recognised as a focal point for Asian food, cultures, and communities both locally and internationally, Moore said. "But the last few years have been incredibly challenging for the area.

“This is a perfect time for a new overarching plan for the area, and our communities have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to work with us to celebrate the important precinct’s past and help safeguard its future.

“Through our extensive consultation we heard the community’s desire for a diverse, friendly and safe area that’s easy to navigate, with a range of food options and a streetscape that respects and celebrates the social and cultural history of the area.

“Our plans include a long-term upgrade of public space, with more trees, seats, lighting and integrated public art, as well as a proposed review of planning controls to support vibrant building signage and renewal of smaller buildings as a point of difference from the city centre.

“The community told us clearly that our first priority should be the heart of Chinatown, Dixon Street, so that work is already underway, and we will be restoring the iconic Ceremonial Gates next year.

“We will also begin public domain improvements to strengthen the identity of Thai Town on Campbell Street.”

The City will explore opportunities to boost community space in the area and increase cultural activities, as well as encourage landowners to upgrade rundown buildings and ensure vacant space is occupied. Innovative ways to improve maintenance and waste management in the area will also feature in the final strategy.

Image: Revamped Harbour Street. Provided.

Landmark Sydney hotel to get a major makeover

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth - which was once Sydney's first "grand" hotel - is to be given a major makeover.

Recently acquired by a fund managed by global investment firm KKR in strategic partnership with Futuro Capital and Marprop Real Estate Investors, the hotel's $60 million refurb is scheduled to commence in January and be completed by spring 2024.

With a storied history spanning over half a century, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has been a feature of Sydney's urban landscape since its inception as the Wentworth Hotel in 1966. It was later called the Sheraton Wentworth. 

The Wentworth was Sydney's first five-star international hotel and encapsulated the essence of 1960s and 70s jet-set glamour as Sydney first emerged as a global destination.

“We are excited to reignite and add layers to the history of this landmark hotel," said hotel GM Sam Panetta.

"The repositioning of the Sofitel will enhance the luxury services on offer and reinforce the value of the brand.”

Led by architecture and interior design firm Fender Katsalidis - which also designed Sydney's MONA and the landmark Levantine Hill in the Yarra Valley - the refurbishment of the heritage-listed property includes a comprehensive redesign of all 436 guest rooms and suites, corridors, club lounge and lobby areas.

Key to the refurbishment is the introduction of a completely new world-class dining precinct, including new restaurants and bars.

Karen Morris, associate principal for Fender Katsalidis, says: “We are honoured to be a part of the refurbishment of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, an iconic landmark on the Sydney skyline.


"Our design vision is to revitalise the guest experience while preserving the hotel's rich cultural and social heritage, re-establishing its position as a luxury hotel destination. We are excited to be part of this city-shaping project that will breathe new life and vibrancy into this part of Sydney.”

A sneak peek at a Hunter icon reborn

It is all change at Mount Pleasant Wines in the Hunter Valley. 

New owners; a multimillion dollar investment, new tasting facilities and a new menu imagined by star chef Justin North. 

The reborn Pokolbin icon officially opens its doors next month but Gourmet on the Road was given a sneak peek. 

Enjoy your exclusive look around at wood panelling, luxurious lounges and spacious tasting facilities. 

Talented Adrian Sparks (second image) stays on as winemaker.