Perth historic The Royal Hotel reopens its doors today and venue has been given a sleek makeover. Built in 1882 on the corner of William and Wellington Streets, The Royal Hotel was the original heart and soul of Perth.
John Parker, the man behind applauded Northbridge bar, The Standard, is bringing the heritage-listed building back to life.
The Royal promises to be a great Australian pub once again – this time with an emphasis on quality food and an elevated pub experience. Following an extensive thirteen million dollar joint renovation with Charter Hall, the Royal Hotel opens today Saturday, 16 November.
“Back in her heyday, The Royal was a hive of mixed activity – she was the true epicentre and melting pot of Perth, and just a great Australian pub. The Royal is a heritage-listed 140-year old grand dame with great bones and incredible Perth-centric history. I’m very excited to be returning her to modern day Perth. I’ve been running bars for 25 years now and both my father and grandfather were publicans, so I really feel like pubs are well and truly well in my blood,” John Parker said.
Parker worked very closely with the team from Milieu Creative to realise his vision.
“We wanted to retain The Royal’s history and charm wherever possible, but also blend her creatively with contemporary features. The grand staircase, regal archways, timber floors and
original façade and verandah have all been lovingly restored.”
The Saloon Bar, its original name dating back to 1894, on the ground floor has both an indoor and outdoor section, and will offer casual drinks and contemporary plays on pub classics.
Upstairs has been sectioned into multiple spaces with their own contemporary concepts, including two bars, function space, private dining and karaoke room.
Joining Parker is Head Chef Chase Weber (The Standard) and Sous Chef Shane Middleton (ex-Santini at QT) in the kitchen. Madeline Grey is appointed as venue manager, supported by
Jessica Blyth. Patrick Carpenter (ex-Halford Bar) heads up the spirits and cocktail program, and the wine list is curated by sommelier Indi Newall.
The Royal Hotel was the longest operating hotel in Perth, and now its doors are open again 7 days a week from 12pm – 12am (10:00pm Sundays).
Source: Media Release
