The Newport to Add Bert's, a 1930s-Style Brasserie Overlooking the Water

Having run The Newport on the northern beaches since March 2016, Merivale has just announced a new addition. Meet Bert's, a brasserie and bar brimming over with oysters and lobster that's set to open in early January.

As we've come to expect from Merivale, Bert's won't be doing anything by halves. Getting its inspiration from the 1930s — when hotel dining rooms were grand destinations — the restaurant will be an extravaganza of jade green and coral pink, with an open kitchen as its centrepiece.

The menu, sorted out by executive chef Jordan Toft, aims to transport you to some fancy European seaside resort. Look out for a dedicated raw bar, crowded with oysters, crab and brioche canapés, and a larder loaded with charcuterie and salads. Among the decadent mains are lobster (straight from the tank, mind you) and whole fish, baked in a charcoal oven or cooked over a basque grill.

Walking in, you won't be able to miss the cellar, put together by master sommelier Franck Moreau. Its contents include a selection of European drops, an array of rose (including Jeroboam), plenty of Aussie classics and a bunch of left-field bottles from creative labels, such as Lucy Margaux 'Wildman' and Patrick Sullivan 'Windy Cottage'. Meanwhile, Sam Egerton and his team will be hard at work in the cocktail bar, mixing new versions of old classics using seasonal produce. Egerton's favourite is a take on the Royale, with vodka, ginger cordial, Champagne and finger lime caviar.

Needless to say, Bert's comes with gob-smacking views, of both The Newport's expansive grounds and stunning sparkling Pittwater. "The Newport has always held a very special place in the hearts of the northern beaches community; it is a truly magnificent site, in an incredible location," said Justin Hemmes, head honcho at Merivale. "Our long-term vision for the venue is to create a destination that genuinely has something for everyone — all occasions, ages, budgets and tastes."

Bert's will open in early January at The Newport, 2 Kalinya Street, Newport. We'll keep you updated on an opening date, but for more information, visit merivale.com.au/thenewport.

Image: The Newport by Bodhi Liggett.