Three spaces will be housed in a two-storey building, with a General Store and intimate speakeasy.
The heart of Newtown is a known foodie destination, being home to popular venues like Café Paci, Bella Brutta, Ante and more. Now, the minds behind the famed bar, Old Mates Place, is joining the ranks with a creation of their own — Huelo, a multi-faceted cocktail bar right in the heart of King St.
Huelo will be housed in a two-storey building, featuring three distinct spaces to suit any mood you’re feeling. At the front, you’ll find a warm, cosy neighbourhood General Store with everything you need and more. Step into old-world charm as you browse hand-made ceramics and artisan goods like sardines, truffle oil and Nonna’s pasata. Local and internationally sourced ‘fun stuff’ line the shelves, perfect for stocking up your pantry or for hosting your next dinner party. If you’re staying for a good time, you can also grab food at the General Store. Expect small plates packed full of flavour like deli counter sandwiches and fried squid po-boys all served alongside seasonal wines.
Not all is what it seems with Huelo, as the venue has hidden an intimate speakeasy behind the door of the General Store. Make your way to the cocktail bar (which seats an intimate 12 and backs onto a cosy courtyard), and be blown away by the change of scenery. It’s Miami tropical glam meets New York brasserie, with reimagined cocktails that are fun, innovative and delicious. There’s also an upstairs bar set to open later in the year with a more indulgent menu of steak and lobster frites. The bigger space will be used for larger groups, private functions, and celebrations.
For now, the team has decided to open with ‘Oysters & Dreams’, where you can score $2 happy hour oysters and magnums of champagne from Wednesday-Sunday between 4-6pm. You’ll also be able to party on every weekend, with cocktails till 2am Friday and Saturday night.
Huelo means sun rays in Tongan, a nod to co-owner Swanny’s Tongan heritage. Swanny is a veteran in the Sydney hospo scene, having been General Manager at Bistecca and The Joker in London, before going back to his roots of bartending at Old Mates Place. He’s opening Huelo with business partner Dre, who is the owner and operator of Old Mates Place & pop-up Ginny’s Canoe Club.
Huelo is now open at 127 King St, Newtown NSW from Wednesday-Sunday. To find out more information, visit their Instagram here.