Overview
Another Sydney stalwart has been given a new lease on life. Hotel William, a historic four-storey hotel on Darlinghurst's William Street, has reopened after a big round of renos as Hyde Park House — and it now boasts a public bar, cocktail parlour and lounge. But we're already heading up to the hotel's top level, where Slims Rooftop offers views across Hyde Park, izakaya-style eats and Asian-inspired drinks.
The bright fit-out starts with retro frilly orange and pink umbrellas covering all-white furnishings, which include a mix of low and high tables, along with a few picnic-style benches. Heaps of tropical greenery and potted cacti add to the lush surrounds.
It's no secret that cocktail-sipping and rooftops go hand-in-hand, and Slims follows suit with a selection of classics like Aperol spritzes and margaritas ($16–$18), sitting alongside signatures starring Asian ingredients. Sip on a Try Relaxing at Lake Tahoe (Suntory whisky with matcha tea and pisco) or the La Dolce Vita (rum with hibiscus tea, mint and lime), priced at $18 a pop. An all-Australian/New Zealand wine list and local brews by Balter, Modus Operandi and Young Henrys are also up for grabs.
The menu focuses on modern Japanese-inspired small plates — think sushi rolls and poké bowls, along with snacks like truffle oil edamame ($9), pan-fried pork or veggie gyoza ($10) and wasabi karaage chicken ($17). If you're looking for larger dishes to share, there's a traditional teppanyaki slinging grilled goods like salmon teriyaki ($30), miso eggplant ($19) and barbecued prawns ($29).
While Slims launched in early winter, with spring well on its way (and our first 30-degree day behind us) now's the time to head upstairs and throw back a spritz or two in the sun.
Hyde Park House and Slims Rooftop are now open at 47-49 William St, Darlinghurst. The hotel's opening hours are Monday through Saturday from 10am–3am and Sunday from 10am–10pm. Rooftop opening hours are Tuesday through Sunday from noon until late.