Club Rose Bay
The historic venue has received the Merivale treatment, and now boasts a Totti's-style eatery, a '50s jet-age record bar and a sprawling, dog-friendly courtyard.
Overview
For more than 75 years, Club Rose Bay has been a pillar of the local community. In 2026, it enters a new chapter under the management of Merivale, following a considered, year-long refurbishment — the venue's first since 1979 — that adds a suite of new features while honouring its legacy.
Overseen by Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes and Surry Hills design studio Akin Atelier (who previously worked with Hemmes to reimagine The Newport), the new-look Club Rose Bay has been extensively transformed with major structural works, new kitchens, refreshed interiors and a landscaped, family- and dog-friendly outdoor area featuring rain gardens, pickleball and basketball courts and an outdoor Airstream bar.

Vincent Yeung
While the Merivale stamp may feel incongruous, the renewed Club Rose Bay remains deeply rooted in its history. A newly created memorabilia hall honours more than a century of Australian service and sacrifice, providing space for reflection and education, while a daily reading of the Ode of Remembrance at 6pm — followed by a minute's silence — anchors the club firmly in its RSL identity.
Merivale's influence is more overt in the hospitality offering. Leading the charge is Notti's (pictured above), Executive Chef Mike Eggert's playful, casual take on Totti's, serving snacks, pizza, pasta and wood-fired mains. There's also Mr Pop, a 1950s jet-age-inspired cocktail and record bar channelling the glamour of a classic airport lounge — a nod to the site's history as Australia's first international airport.

Vincent Yeung
The more traditional club staples have also had a glow-up. Eggert has reworked the classic club menu — think fish and chips, schnitties, steaks, burgers and retro desserts served venue-wide. A revamped sports bar now boasts five pool tables, enormous screens and weekly events including pool competitions.
Arguably, though, it's the expansive new courtyard that'll keep locals coming back. Set amid lush landscaping, the dog-friendly outdoor area features a full-size pickleball court, a basketball half-court, alfresco dining zones and an Airstream bar shaking up summer-ready bevs. And if you're rolling in straight from the sand, there are beach showers so you can freshen up before settling in.

Dougal Gorman