Redfern’s favourite drinking spot has undergone a transformation in its 100th year standing.
Everyone loves a good pub transformation and The Norfolk House & Hotel is set to be the best one yet. The renowned pub has been reimaged with brand new drinking, dining and socialising spaces for creative locals and visitors alike. The pub doors are set to reopen as soon as Gladys says the word go, but until then, here’s what you have to look forward to.
The venue will combine the very best of CEO Andrew Taylor’s successful career in the hotel world and Paul Schulte’s experience operating more than 25 hospitality venues across Australia and overseas. Spanning two levels, the venue includes two bars, an expansive outdoor courtyard and a mix of lifestyle spaces for socialising of all types. The hotel rooms will be available for those in town for work or those looking to have a good time and stay awhile. Redfern, your favourite pub has been reimaged in the very best way.
Upstairs on level one, enjoy open spaces designed to feel like your very own living room. The House will be open to locals and people staying with versatile spaces to relax with friends, network or co-work. You can even enjoy sandwiches for lunch, salads of classic pub favourites from the restaurant. Creative Director Paul Schulte explained, “We aim to become the home for burgeoning creative Sydney talent, a space designed for musicians, artists, mixologists (and everyone in between) to flex their creativity and flourish.” The space will also transform into a stage for intimate live gigs after hours should restrictions eventually ease.
The courtyard has been transformed into what is now called ‘The Garden’. It was designed with the community in mind and features large timber tables for gathering and a $25,000 16-spit roast barbeque to keep the locals well fed. Get ready for Sunday roast sessions as Sam Bull serves meats straight from the BBQ. Think Wagyu Rump Steak, BBQ Prawns and Smoked Pork sausages. Sam Bull explains, “Our food philosophy is simple; relaxed, delicious, for everyone. Taking inspiration from my family backyard BBQs, our signature Brazilian BBQ will take centre stage. We’ll be firing it up daily with a varied menu of Australian favourites using quality seafood, meats and veggies to reflect the diverse multicultural community we have in Australia. We want people to feel relaxed, and at home in our house just like at any gathering in your mate’s back yard.”
Beverage Director Tim Philips-Johansson who you’d know from Dead Ringer and Bulletin Place has curated drinks that can only be described as delicious. Cocktail highlights inlude the Banana Mule, Jalapeño Mojito, Fantales and Toucan Sam Negroni. For wines, expect the best of it all to be enjoyed by the bottle or glass.
Andrew Taylor explained, “In this new age of living we’re proud and excited to finally open the doors to our first venue, The Norfolk House & Hotel. The Norfolk has a rich history within the Redfern neighbourhood that we know cannot be replicated, with many Sydneysiders experiencing a great night or occasion there. We’re looking forward to continuing The Norfolk’s legacy and creating more stories and memories within our community.”
Launching soon will be a Spanish wine bar and bottle shop downstairs, created in partnership with one of Sydney’s most renowned bar operators. They’re also soon to introduce 6 fashionable rooms and a partnership with a wine bar and deli. Stay tuned!