The Queen’s Hotel in Enmore is a rejuvenation of the former Queen Victoria Hotel. The Merivale Group, led by Justin Hemmes, continues its domination of developing uber-cool venues across Sydney. This pub, favoured by the locals, has been cut and polished into a jewel of the Merivale crown. Busy restaurant, cafe, and bar saturated Newtown is now spilling into Enmore, which is touted to be the next foodie heaven.
Last night I ventured across the bridge from the leafy and safe Northern Suburbs, to celebrate a friend’s birthday, my hubby and I were introduced us to this delightfully eclectic venue that boasts a Cantonese restaurant, “Queen Chow” and the cocktail bar, “The Smelly Goat”.
The interior fit-out and design is a collaboration between Justin and Bettina Hemmes, Kelvin Ho of Akin Creative and stellar stylist Amanda Talbot. The result is a contemporary space that is warm and inviting, with a big nod to the pub’s Victorian heritage. As with all Merivale venues,
As with all Merivale venues, the Queen’s Hotel space has been divided into different areas, with Queen Chow, the Cantonese restaurant downstairs and The Smelly Goat cocktail bar upstairs. Although I went at night, there are brightly decorated daytime outdoor areas designed for lunchtime dining. At night the venue transforms with soft intimate lighting, and a variert of spaces, banquettes – perfect for a romantic dinner or group function. The furniture is a contrast with modern and worn leather, marble and wood.
My friends chose cocktails from the menu with classic cocktails given a surprising and delightful twist. I’m not drinking at the moment, but made my way through the mocktail menu, with my firm favourite, Flemish Reds, strawberry pulp and juice, tomato, basil and a hint of pepper. I did sip my friend’s cocktails and they were incredible.
We ordered finger food, which was a mix of pub finger food from Papa Culo, and Cantonese dumplings.
Image sources: Vogue Australia, Merivale, Pinterest.
The Queen’s Hotel CONTACT
Group Bar Bookings +61 2 9254 8088
The Queen’s Hotel OPEN HOURS
Mon – Sat: 12:00pm – late
Sun: 12:00pm – 10:00pm