Darling Pavilion Is the Brand-New Multimillion-Dollar Pub Pouring Beers in Darling Harbour

The team behind Newtown Hotel and Universal has just opened a luxurious new watering hole right across from Tumbalong Park and the ICC.
Nishika Sharma
Published on August 24, 2023

Sydney has scored a sweet newcomer bearing a hefty price tag — and it's located right across from Tumbalong Park and Darling Square. Next time you're heading to the expansive park or the ICC for an event, you can now pop in and grab a beer at the new multimillion-dollar pub Darling Pavilion.

The latest venue from the hospitality group the team behind Universal, Newtown Hotel and The Imperial is bringing casual luxury to Harbour Street, boasting an elegant design from Dreamtime's interior designer Michael McCann (Mr Wong, China Diner and Felix) partnered with a relaxed atmosphere.

Seating over 350 guests, Darling Pavilion's interiors consist of timber-covered ceilings, textured feature walls and copious amounts of natural light with spots of greenery littered throughout. Residing in the centre is an eye-catching 20-metre stone and marble bar— the focal point of the indoor space.

Opt to unwind in the huge outdoor terrace and you'll discover the perfect spot to soak up some rays — the cosy lounges. Plus, there are custom-built DJ decks offering up live tunes to accompany you throughout the day and well into the night.

"Darling Quarter holds fond memories for many Australians. It's great to see the whole area evolve with time and we're excited to introduce Darling Pavilion to the mix," says Jim Kospetas from Universal Hotels.

Darling Pavilion's menu has been jointly curated by Head Chef Kyle Quy (ex-Nola Smokehouse, 2007 Young Chef of the Year Award winner) and Group Executive Chef Dean Sammut. Expect familiar pub favourites like the beloved schnitty and Neapolitan-style pizzas to dishes pulling inspiration from the Mediterranean.

A few stellar options include the braised lamb shank and the mushroom and truffle pizza. Plus, there are tempting weekly lunch specials that are sure to draw you in for a midweek feed.

Pair your meal with a drink — take a look at the pub's drinks offering and you'll find yourself spoilt for choice. The venue's signature artisanal cocktails — ranging from classics like the spicy margarita and a stiff negroni to seasonal sips like the fruity Oh Darling martini  — reside alongside an array of beers and wines, catering to any sip you find yourself in the mood for.

Whether you head in for a quick midday break or leisurely drinks after work, you're guaranteed to enjoy an elevated pub experience.

You'll find Darling Pavilion at 1 Harbour Street, Sydney. It's open 10am–3am Monday–Sunday.

Published on August 24, 2023 by Nishika Sharma
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