Hotel Palisade's Rooftop Bar Is Set to Open in Sydney

The Hotel Palisade was once the highest building in Sydney. It's true, back in 1915 it was built as a pub for port workers and the residents of Millers Point; a feat of modern commercial development. After many long and hearty years as a Millers staple pub, hotel and prized Brian Sudek/Annie Parmentier restaurant, it closed in 2008. But now, the Palisade is finding new life in its 100th year, reopening in July 2015 and about to open its rooftop bar and boutique hotel section on November 11.

Dubbed Henry Deane (named for the Australian engineer responsible for electrifying the Sydney tramway system), the Palisade's new split-level cocktail bar and restaurant will sit proudly atop the historic pub, with chef Joel Bennetts at the helm and 360 degree views of Sydney. Although the official opening is set for November 11, the very first celebration coming to Henry Deane will be a big Melbourne Cup party, where a team of chefs will be serving up a huge feast of fresh seafood, grilled meats and roast salmon, with champagne on arrival. The party, with tickets sitting at a cool $200 a head from askusanything@hotelpalisade.com, will kick off at noon on Tuesday, November 3.

Also opening with the launch of Henry Deane will be the Palisade's nine boutique hotel rooms. Like the rest of the Palisade, they're all decorated by Sibella Court, owner of The Society Inc and interior stylist for the likes of Palings, Mr Wong, Palmer & Co, El Loco, Ms G’s and more.

Quite the prime real estate spot, the Palisade was snapped up for about $20 million by entrepreneur Richard Sapsford. With the ground floor bar now open for business — serving cocktails curated by Mikey Enright (The Barber Shop) and Dave O'Brien's hearty pub grub like pies, soup and toasties alongside lighter fare like lentil and beetroot salads — the Palisade's fancier upper levels will be the jewel in the Palisade's crown.

The Palisade's ground floor bar is now open at 35 Bettington Street, Millers Point. The Henry Deane rooftop bar and restaurant will officially open on November 11.

Images: Belinda Rolland/Hotel Palisade.