Overview
While Sydney's got no shortage of classic Aussie pubs, the traditional British boozer proves a little harder to come by — a tad surprising, given the city's heritage. But now the CBD is about to get its own proper nod to ye olde English tavern, by way of a new venture from The Barber Shop's Mikey Enright and Julian Train, which you'll find tucked down the award-winning gin bar's side alleyway (the same one that houses The Baxter Inn).
Named after the gent who would go on to become King William IV, The Duke of Clarence is out to deliver a quintessentially British experience, and the owners aren't doing things by halves.
With acclaimed UK set designer Sara Mathews (Moulin Rouge, Ned Kelly) heading up the design, there's little doubt the pub's going to look the part. Original furniture and building materials have been handpicked from pubs, churches and warehouses during the team's extensive UK travels — from the stained glass and the panelling, through to the 1850s-era floorboards. A portrait of The Duke greets punters at the entrance, while inside lies a stunning 12-metre bar and a library nook complete with open fire.
Meanwhile, both the food and the drinks offering will take their cues from the proper English pubs Enright grew up with back in Northern England. A broad-ranging booze selection will include around 500 spirits from the homeland, with cask-conditioned brews the stars of the beer list. The eats, too, will be unmistakably British, the menu designed by Liverpudlian and former Merivale Executive Chef of Events, David O'Brien.
The Duke of Clarence is slated to open mid-November. You'll find it at 152-156 Clarence Street, Sydney. Stay tuned for more details and keep an eye on thedukeofclarence.com.