There aren’t many Sydneysiders who haven’t found themselves starting – or ending – a night out at Hotel Harry. The pub, which has been operating since 1912, has long been a well-frequented local haunt. And, if the refreshed look and menu from The Point* Group are anything to go by, it’s likely to remain that way.

“For over 15 years we’ve watched this precinct grow into one of Sydney’s most vibrant and creative neighbourhoods, thriving with quality restaurants, bars, galleries and hotels,” says The Point* Group co-founder Brett Robinson. “The evolution of Harry’s not only moves with that energy; it creates a true focal point for it. A place to meet. A place that anchors the area. A pub made for Surry Hills.”

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Food is, of course, central to the transformation. Developed by culinary director Joel Bickford and executive chef Danny Corbett, the menu takes advantage of a new French Rotisol rotisserie, a wood-fired parilla grill and a Marana Forni pizza oven imported from Italy.

Rotisserie chicken from Bannockburn and Bangalow pork headline the offering, served with roast potatoes and fried Brussels sprouts. From the grill come dishes such as split king prawns cooked over open flame and a hefty bistecca Fiorentina, while the pizza menu is anything but ordinary – think combos like potato and guanciale, or sausage with vodka sauce.

Behind the bar, cocktails range from classics to house signatures, while music remains central to the venue’s identity. A custom DJ booth fitted with Technics 1200 turntables and vintage Japanese Sansui speakers continues the pub’s long connection to Sydney’s nightlife.

The renovation focuses on refining the venue rather than reinventing it. Inside, the historic Federation Free Style building has been softened and warmed by interior stylist Anna Hewett. The result unfolds across several distinct spaces: a buzzing bistro and open kitchen, a relaxed lounge suited to long lunches or late cocktails, and a terrace designed to catch the afternoon sun.

Hotel Harry
40/44 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills NSW 2010
hotelharry.com.au