The Newington Reopens as Public House Petersham

Big changes have come to The Newington on Stanmore Road, with the familiar local set reopening under a new moniker after extensive renovations. To be henceforth known as Public House Petersham, the venue has overhauled its traditional pub decor, transforming the space into a 'local cultural hub,' inspired by the vibe of Bushwick, Brooklyn.

The rebranding is the idea of hospitality group Solotel, who purchased the venue last year and also operate the likes of Opera Bar, Paddington Inn and Goros. The venue features two unique street art designs by Sydney artists Phibs and Numskull, new booth seating, a community herb garden made from repurposed pallets and a shipping container beer garden.

Under newly appointed head chef, Martin Cerny, the menu and drinks list has also had a facelift with a focus on craft beers, fresh produce seasoned with plants from the herb garden, wine and share food (including gingerbread men-topped desserts), as well as pizzas cooked in a brand new wood-fire oven. The owners will also be encouraging local community groups and clubs to use the venue as a place to meet and host activities. Licensee Amanda Veratti said in a statement that the owners "are thrilled to be able to give the old Hotel a new lease of life, where people can meet and socialise over a fantastic range of beverages and food that is made to be shared."

Public House Petersham is set to open with a big ol' free party, Backyard Brew Collaborative, with a launch party set for Saturday, October 24 in conjunction with Sydney Craft Beer Week. The event will feature a 'Beer Bake-Off', where everyone is encouraged to bring their best baked goods using beer. There'll also be a 'Beard Off' competition, specialty beer tastings, food samplers from the new menu, live music from local performers, as well as a whole bunch of lawn games including backyard cricket, giant jenga and bocce. Beer Creative and Willie The Boatman have even teamed up to create a Schwarz dark German style lager for the event.

The Newington Public House Petersham is located at 292 Stanmore Rad, Petersham. Backyard Brew Collaborative is happening from 12pm to 7pm on Saturday, October 24, with free entry.

Images: Nikki To.