The Strand Hotel

Perched on the corner of William and Crown Street, chances are you've made a pit stop at the old boozer known as The Strand Hotel once or twice before. The pub has been stationed there for an impressive 99 years—but now it's entering into a new era.

The Strand has been reimagined as a multi-level dining precinct and hotel inspired by Paris in the Belle Époque.

The first phase of the pub's transformation is the ground floor French bistro—a spot to slurp spoonfuls of beluga caviar and Sydney rock oysters topped with classic French mignonette. Head chef Alex Kavanagh is also plating up "Lè Bùrger Gruyere" (a cheeseburger made with gruyere cheese), classic steak frites, a duck leg pie, and baguettes with lashings of cultured butter. 

To drink, you'll find an extensive list of Australian and French wines, alongside a 49-strong whisky list and a set of French-themed signature cocktails. Try "The Charlie Chaplin", which is a mix of sloe gin, apricot brandy, and lime juice; or a vodka, elderflower liqueur, and rosemary concoction called "French Tart".

 On the weekends, the bistro will become a "bistrotheque" with a roster of DJs spinning tunes into the wee hours. 

The pub's new era also includes a 17-room hotel, complete with a library and co-working space.

Last but not least, the pièce de résistance or crowning jewel at The Strand is its rooftop bar dressed in greenery with a stellar view of the sparkly city. Here you'll find DJs on rotation, a casual food menu, signature cocktails, stunning sunsets, and more. 

The Strand Hotel rooftop is open Wednesday - Sunday, 12pm - 12am. 

Image credit: The Strand Hotel