Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel: Good times at the Woolly
This large, heritage listed pub has a colourful history. Set against the ever-stunning backdrop of Woolloomooloo Bay, it’s just opposite the Garden Island Naval base and was for many years a lively, if rough around the edges sailor’s hangout.
Since then, the inner city suburb of Woolloomooloo (the harbourside bit at least) has slapped on a few glossy coats of paint, sprouted some swanky waterside apartments and grown up to become one of Sydney’s most prestigious harbourfront addresses.
So too, has the Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel (formerly known as The W) evolved, boasting a sleek, clean and modern look and an ambience of loungey sophistication. It’s still a pretty down to earth sort of pub though. As always, there’s sport on the telly and regular racing meets at the downstairs Woolly Bar, and there are still live local bands regularly rocking the Balcony Bar.
Make your way to the bistro, order up then grab a table on the outdoor terrace, gazing out over the historic Finger Wharf, the luxury Woolloomooloo marina and the harbour beyond. The kitchen turns out generous, hearty pub fare. Share a light tapas plate, salt and pepper prawns or lamb ribs with tzatziki, or go a pizza, a scotch fillet sandwich, or perhaps a beef and Blue Tongue Lager pie with vegetables and creamy mash.
HelloSydney Tip: On weekends the pub becomes a wonderfully scenic breakfast hangout, open from 9am to serve up eggs Benedict, omelettes and fresh fruit salad.
Posted by Fiona Davies
