Sydney’s oldest pub, Fortune of War, to welcome new bistro and reopen boutique hotel

Guests will be able to dine, drink, stay and be entertained at Sydney’s oldest pub from next month, with the Fortune of War expanding its offering to launch a 60-seat bistro and reopen its boutique hotel following a complete renovation.

Located in the heart of The Rocks, the city’s oldest, continuously licensed public hotel will welcome Bistro 1828 - the name a nod to when the venue was built by former convict Samuel Terry - in the adjoining heritage-listed spaces previously occupied by The Push Bar and two retail stores.

The venue, with its high ceilings and original windows overlooking George St and cobblestone Globe St, will feature an open-plan kitchen and bar that will be open seven days a week.

WDS Hotels owner Steve ‘Speedy’ Speed - who took over the leasehold with wife Fiona and a group of investors in 2013 - says the venue had outgrown the previous space.

“We’re very much a food and beverage pub, but due to the small size of the kitchen, we haven’t been able to provide our dream dining experience for guests, until now,” he says.

“People visit the pub because they want to take their time to read the walls and talk to us about what it’s like to work at Sydney’s oldest pub.

“It’s a place steeped in history, and now more people than ever will be able to enjoy it, whether they’re sitting at the historic hamper bar, relaxing in the bistro, enjoying the alfresco dining area, staying at the new boutique hotel accommodation, or enjoying all four.”

Fortune of War has brought on board Mark Williamson (ex-Bistro Moncur) as its executive chef, who jumped at the chance to work at the venue.

“We want this to be a true representation of a classic Aussie pub,” he says.

“Classics and Fortune of War’s signature dishes like the fish'n'chips and beef and Guinness stew will still take pride of place, but we’re also going to slightly elevate the menu.”

Fortune of War will also unveil a new breakfast offering.

“Bistro Moncur was a big and exciting project, but this is a step-up again,” Williamson says.

“The kitchen will operate from 7am to 9.30pm, seven days a week.”

The same menu will be available throughout, with the only difference that the bistro will take reservations.

With the entire building in need of a little love, the family-owned hospitality group decided to update everything at once.

The original pub is getting an uplift, with new carpet, paint and the careful restoration of the 100-year-old, red oak bar.

“These updates will ensure the longevity of the building for decades to come, but the essence, heart and soul that makes the Fortune of War such a loved and historic place, will remain the same,” Speed says.

“We’re a country pub in the heart of the city. Everything from the service to the style and character is reminiscent of what you’d find in a regional area.

“It’s one of our core values and when we open the hotel, it will operate in the same way - you’ll still be able to open the windows.”

The Russell Boutique Hotel will provide an authentic and warm, home-away-from-home experience filled with timeless charm and welcoming hospitality, in line with its motto of welcoming strangers and farewelling friends.

Opening in time for this year’s Vivid festival - with bookings now available - each of the 28 rooms will have their own unique, Australiana feel, with many also offering partial views of Sydney Harbour.

The 19th century building, which was formerly a hospital, also has some distinctive quirks.

“None of the rooms are in sequential order,” Speed says.

“I’ve been here almost 13 years and I still get confused as to where each one is, but it’s those little authentic things that enhance someone’s stay.”

The historic Fortune of War’s main bar area is currently closed, but food, drinks and live entertainment are still available in the expansive outdoor area and the neighbouring Lock Up.

Visit therussell.com.au to get a special deal on accommodation, or fortuneofwar.com.au for more information.