Sydney’s oldest continuously licensed pub, Fortune of War, reopened yesterday offering a complete accommodation and dining experience with a new bistro and refurbished 28-room hotel.
Situated in The Rocks, the public bar has been given a facelift with the restoration of the 100-year-old red oak bar, new carpet and a paint job.
Located beside it is the new 60-seat Bistro 1828, which has increased the venues capacity by transforming two retail stores and The Push Bar. Named as a nod to the year in which the pub was first constructed, the extended dining space features an expansive open-plan kitchen.
Relics from the pubs storied past have been incorporated throughout both spaces, such as beaten copper panelling and golden arches along with 19th century alcohol and medicine bottles and old maps found during the renovation.
Steve Speed, co-owner of WDS Hotels, which took over the pub and its upstairs accommodation in 2013, says the group worked closely with heritage authorities to retain the character of the heritage-listed building.
“We’re still a country pub in the heart of the city, with warm and welcoming hospitality, classic pub dishes and beers poured with passion, for quality.
“We had outgrown the previous space, so by opening Bistro 1828, more people are able to enjoy the historic charm, character and sense of community that accompanies every visit to Sydney’s oldest pub.
“It has been a destination watering hole for almost 200 years, and this renovation will ensure it stays that way for the next 200,” Speed continued.
New executive chef Mark Williamson (The Woollahra Hotel) has given new life to the all-day dining menu with the addition of meals that cater to a broader range of tastes, all of which will be available across the original pub, Bistro 1828 and alfresco area.
“We are a historic venue with a large and loyal customer base, so it was important that we didn’t change it up too much,” Williamson explains.
“All the pub classics people know and love, like our beef and Guinness stew, fish ’n’ chips, nachos and burgers are still here, but we’ve also added some new dishes too, like fresh salads, pastas and shared starters, with a Sunday roast coming soon.”
The venue will also open for breakfast for the first time, ensuring an all-in-one experience for hotel guests. Signature dishes include the Fortune of War big breakfast, pancakes and a Bloody Mary made with the pub’s secret recipe, served alongside classics like avocado on toast, eggs benedict and breakfast burgers.
Speed says WDS Hotels has wanted to introduce a breakfast offering ever since acquiring the pub.
“When we first came down to The Rocks we thought how great it would be to one day serve up bacon and eggs at Sydney’s oldest pub.
“Going out for breakfast is such an Australian tradition, so we’re thrilled to now offer it at this iconic location, whether you’re enjoying it as part of your hotel stay or passing by,” he explains.
Located above the pub, The Russell Boutique Hotel has also undergone a restoration. Each room has its own unique design and original features like marble fireplaces and working pull-up windows have been retained throughout.
Take a look at the renovation below:
