Back in October, the Solotel Group decided to cut ties with The Clovelly Hotel. Having only owned the Eastern Suburbs drinking den for two years, the sale was a rather surprising one, but one director Bruce Solomon attributed to plans to streamline the current portfolio.

“Solotel have made a strategic decision to rebalance our portfolio for future growth,” he said at the time “This means we are unfortunately saying goodbye to the Cloey locals, who were a pleasure to serve over the past two years.”

But Solotel Group’s loss is someone else’s gain; namely Tilley & Wills, the hospitality group behind the recently revamped Verandah Bar and Restaurant.

The team already have big plans for ‘The Cloey’ in the new year, promising a renewed focus on community and events. “This venue has so much potential, the bones are great, everything is here, we are excited to put our spin on things,” says Nick Wills.

“With the introduction of a kid’s area and fresh styling shift for the back bar and bistro we really feel there will be something for everyone. We want The Clovelly Hotel to be a true extension of everyone’s homes, a place for locals and visitors alike to come and hang out.”

Wills and business partner Simon Tilley have also promised to host pop-up bars every weekend across summer out in the beer garden, there will also be a rotating array of live music provided by DJs and local talent.

As for specific events, The Clovelly Hotel will host a friends and family locals Christmas party on December 20 with live Christmas carollers, followed by a Christmas Eve ‘til late party (which is exactly as it sounds). Boxing Day sees a special nautical-themed barbecue take place to celebrate the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, before a free New Year’s Day Party rolls in. The latter is to be a themed pink party, where everything from cocktails to attire will be rose in hue.

Alongside this new focus on events at The Cloey comes a completely revamped menu from group head chef Brad Sloane. “Essentially we want to get the classic pub basics right and build from there at The Cloey,” Sloane explains. “There was a feeling when we took over that some of the basics needed to come back onto the menu. A gastro pub version of the parmigiana, excellent fish and chips – plus a few high- end options for those splashing out. With our proximity to the ocean we will have a heavy focus on seafood dishes.”

The Clovelly Hotel
381 Clovelly Road, Clovelly
clovellyhotel.com.au