Fortune of War is Sydney’s oldest pub, dating back to 1828. Located in the heart of The Rocks, it gets its name from being a popular last stop ashore for sailors and soldiers who were heading off to seek their ‘fortune at war’, during WWI and WWII. 

Now this grand old dame is getting a modern refresh, with the pub expanding its offering to open a 60-seat bistro and reopen its boutique hotel following a complete renovation.

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The new dining offering will be named Bistro 1828 – a nod to when the pub was first built by former convict Samuel Terry. It will be located in the adjoining heritage-listed spaces previously occupied by The Push Bar and two retail stores.

The bistro, with its high ceilings and original windows overlooking George St and cobblestone Globe St, will feature an open-plan kitchen and bar that will be open seven days a week.

WDS Hotels owner Steve ‘Speedy’ Speed – who took over the leasehold with wife Fiona and a group of investors in 2013 – says the venue had outgrown the previous space.

“We’re very much a food and beverage pub, but due to the small size of the kitchen, we haven’t been able to provide our dream dining experience for guests, until now,” he says.

“People visit the pub because they want to take their time to read the walls and talk to us about what it’s like to work at Sydney’s oldest pub.

“It’s a place steeped in history, and now more people than ever will be able to enjoy it.”

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Fortune of War has brought on board Mark Williamson (ex-Bistro Moncur) as its executive chef, who jumped at the chance to work at the venue.

“We want this to be a true representation of a classic Aussie pub,” Williamson says. “Classics and Fortune of War’s signature dishes like the fish ‘n’ chips and beef and Guinness stew will still take pride of place, but we’re also going to slightly elevate the menu.”

Fortune of War will also unveil a new breakfast offering, with the kitchen opening from 7am, seven days a week. The same menu will be available throughout the entire venue, with the bistro taking reservations. 

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The pub has also unveiled its new accommodation offering – the Russell Boutique Hotel. Housed in a 19th-century building that has previously been a hospital and a hostel for sailors (and that many believe to be haunted), the hotel comes with some distinctive quirks.

“None of the rooms are in sequential order,” Speed says. “I’ve been here almost 13 years, and I still get confused as to where each one is, but it’s those little authentic things that enhance someone’s stay.”

Opening in time for this year’s Vivid festival – with bookings now available – each of the 28 rooms will have its own unique Australiana feel, with many also offering partial views of Sydney Harbour.

The historic Fortune of War’s main bar area is currently closed, but food, drinks and live entertainment are still available in the expansive outdoor area and the neighbouring Lock Up.

Visit therussell.com.au to get a special deal on accommodation, or fortuneofwar.com.au for more information.

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