Harbord Hotel

Overview

The Harbord Hotel, a coastal mainstay in Freshwater, returned to the northern beaches back in 2021 following a mega makeover.

Occupying the new-look ground floor is a sprawling main bar, summery terrace and Balsa — a seafood restaurant and bar serves up a menu starring foraged coastal herbs and sustainably sourced produce with salt, wood and smoke at the forefront.

The drinks menu follows a similar theme with margaritas rimmed with smoked chilli salt, volcanic coastal wines and crisp Australian beers on the docket. A dedicated list of non-alcoholic drops are also be on offer for those looking to be stay away from the booze.

At the Harbord Hotel's main bar, patrons will find a menu that delivers coastal twists on the classic pub feed. From your classic steak and chips done right to the green bowl with broccolini, avocado, kale, quinoa, green goddess dressing and woodfired salmon, the menu celebrates the close relationship between the pub and the surf.

Located just steps from the beach, the venue plays into its suburb's claim as the official birthplace of surfing in Australia. The sport was popularised in Freshwater back in 1915 by Duke Kahanamoku, a native Hawaiian who famously carved a surfboard from Aussie timber and hypnotised crowds at the beach.

Designed by architects Alexander & Co, the fit-out includes a mural by Sydney artist Ash Holmes and a new "sun-bleached" exterior. The refurb has also unveiled sections of the pub that have been covered for decades including a heritage staircase and arches. And patrons are encouraged to rock up straight from the ocean, with spots to leave surfboards while you wine and dine.

Live music is a major focus at the Harbord Hotel, too, with a full calendar of free events showcasing local northern beaches talent booked in throughout the summer. It even has its own drive through bottleshop, for those keen to take the good times home after a day at the beach.

Appears in: 

The Best Pubs in Sydney