Hunters Hill Hotel

Overview

Hunters Hill's beloved local has entered a new era. After more than a century serving the community, the Hunters Hill Hotel — which first opened as the Fig Tree Hotel in the 1880s before adopting its current moniker in 1940 — has unveiled a top-to-bottom transformation that introduces bright, airy new spaces behind the familiar exterior.

The extensive restoration, led by Squillace Architects, preserves the hotel's original art deco bones while adding warmer, more textured interiors and contemporary extensions. On the ground floor, you'll find a light-filled bistro and beer garden serving elevated pub fare, from reworked classics like steaks, parmies and pizzas to new favourites straight from the parilla lava rock grill — think whole lemon sole and whole roast chook. A sprawling sports bar sits beside the dining areas, featuring an eight-metre LED screen and plenty of beers on tap for match days.

Onecut Studios

Upstairs, a new cocktail lounge adds a touch of sophistication, while an expansive weatherproof indoor-outdoor terrace — complete with retractable roof — is built for everything from long lunches to relaxed sundowners with views over the treetops.

Behind the redevelopment is the Gallagher family, which has owned and operated the hotel for the past decade and lived in Hunters Hill for much longer. As locals themselves, they've reimagined the pub with the community at the front of mind, blending its heritage with smart contemporary updates to create a space that feels new without losing its familiar warmth.

Onecut Studios

Images: Steven Woodburn/Onecut Studios.