Investment in Sydney pub renovations shows no sign of slowing down as the Dee Why Hotel and Crows Nest Hotel announce major upgrades to their offerings.
On Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the Dee Why Hotel is undergoing its first major renovation since the site was developed in 2010.
Owned and operated by the Bayfield family since 1977, the multimillion-dollar refurbishment will honour the pub’s legacy by bringing back its original 90s sports bar Mr B’s and the original 80s bistro, named Jade’s after the late Neville Bayfield’s first grandchild.
Led by Surry Hills-based interior design and architecture practice Richards Stanisich, the overhaul will retain the pub’s existing character, while new finishes, furniture and joinery modernise the space.
Mr B’s will offer an immersive sports viewing experience with a 10-metre LED sports wall and a retro influence seen in memorabilia and nostalgic historical displays from the original sports bar.
Speaking about the new LED sports wall, Kaine Bayfield, chief operating officer, told Australian Hotelier: “This has been something in recent years that has become a big part of sports viewing for patrons in pubs and we wanted to take it to the next level. There will be a raised booth seating area that will have the best view and provide the most comfort to watch your favourite team.”
The interiors of Jade’s bistro will replicate a greenhouse with emerald green walls, soft pink ceilings and art deco furnishings, complete with a new seasonal menu which promises elevated pub classics at affordable prices. Improvements are also being made to the pub’s popular weekly burger specials.
“This is the next chapter for Dee Why Hotel but one thing that hasn’t changed is its place as a true Northern Beaches institution,” Kaine added.
“Each new experience will have its own personality, and together, will elevate the venue’s offering while keeping that approachable, community-driven spirit at the heart of it all. We wanted to maintain a sense of familiarity and comfort.
“It’s a considered update that respects the pub’s history, while offering a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and new visitors. The result is a venue that feels both new and known – comforting to regulars yet exciting for new visitors.”
Renovations are already underway and the hotel will continue to trade as usual, with completion expected in winter.
Crows Nest Hotel gets a facelift
In Sydney’s Lower North Shore, ALH Hotels has revealed a new look for the Crows Nest Hotel following a $1.6 million transformation.
Affectionately known as The Crowie, the renovation celebrates the pub’s live music legacy. Upgrades to the lounge bar, now renamed the main bar, include a large stage and screen, along with a refreshed roster of live DJs and bands performing each weekend.
The pub has also unveiled its first dedicated dining room on the ground floor and debut food menu, made up of classic pub fare, locally sourced protein and dishes with a Mediterranean influence such as souvlaki plates, slow-cooked lamb shoulder and Greek salad.
Head chef Nathaniel ‘Nico’ Madrangca (ex-Kirribilli Hotel, Rey’s Place, Bill & Toni’s) and sous chefs Claudette Cabaron and Pablo Martinez lead the kitchen team, while assistant manager Asher Hagan and ALH’s national destination venue lead Troy Landers have curated the drinks offering. Patrons can expect fruity variations of classic cocktails such as the burnt pineapple and jalapeño Margarita, mandarin Mojito and limoncello Long Island Iced Tea.
The new food menu will also be available in the main bar and on the rooftop, while the public bar, which has been converted from the former One Willoughby events space, will serve a menu of bar snacks. Fitted with screens, the public bar offers a more casual experience and broadcasts live sporting matches.
Bronte Williams, venue manager, says: “The Crows Nest Hotel has always been the place to go on the North Shore for a night out with mates with great music and vibes – everyone has a memory here.
“We are still continuing that legacy of nightlife where you can dance until six am, but also making it a spot for a great pub feed any day of the week with a fresh menu and dining room.”
Paul Kelly Design has been responsible for a revamp of the gaming room, while Cayas + Ward Architects led the refurbishment of the remaining spaces, including an upgrade to the rooftop bar.
Take a look at the Crows Nest Hotel renovation below:
