The Shakespeare Hotel, a cornerstone of Surry Hills since 1879 and known locally as “The Shakey,” has been sold for the first time in almost 50 years. This transaction marks a significant change for the Surry Hills community, where the pub has long been a social hub.
Margaret Hargreaves, who has owned the pub since 1975, made the decision to sell earlier this year. Hargreaves initially leased the pub before acquiring the freehold in 1978, demonstrating her commitment by moving her family into the establishment for three months to focus on the business.
The new owner is Laurence Collins, who also operates the leasehold of The London Hotel in Balmain. Collins has stated his intention to preserve the character of The Shakey, recognising its importance to the Surry Hills community. He emphasised that he does not plan to change the overall fabric of the hotel.
While the exact sale price has not been disclosed, industry speculation had suggested a figure around $12 million when the property was first listed. Kate MacDonald of JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, who managed the sale, indicated that Mrs. Hargreaves was satisfied with the price received.
The Shakespeare Hotel’s significance to Surry Hills extends beyond its role as a local pub. It has been a constant presence in the neighbourhood for over 140 years, witnessing the area’s evolution. The sale represents a change in ownership for a place that has been central to Surry Hills’ social landscape for generations.
As the keys are set to change hands in mid-September, the Surry Hills community will be observing how this transition affects one of their most recognisable local landmarks. The sale of The Shakey marks the end of an era in Surry Hills’ hospitality scene and the beginning of a new chapter for this historic establishment.
A 49-year-old man has been charged in connection with a series of graffiti attacks on luxury vehicles across Sydney, including Surry Hills. The arrest comes after the establishment of Strike Force Opelika to investigate numerous incidents of vehicle vandalism reported this month.
Between August 19 and August 28, 2024, police received 87 reports of vehicles damaged with spray paint while parked on public streets. These incidents spanned multiple police command areas, including Surry Hills, Kings Cross, Eastern Suburbs, and Leichhardt.
Following extensive inquiries and a public appeal, police executed a search warrant at a unit on Pyrmont Bridge Road, Camperdown, at approximately 3 pm on Friday, August 30. The suspect was subsequently arrested and taken to Newtown Police Station.
The man has been charged with 23 counts of destroy or damage property. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Saturday, August 31, 2024.
“Well-Behaved Women,” an empowering female-led production, will run from September 28th to November 3rd, promising audiences a unique and captivating experience at the Belvoir Street Theatre.
Composed by Broadway veteran Carmel Dean, “Well-Behaved Women” reimagines the voices of legendary figures such as Cleopatra, Mary Magdalene, Virginia Woolf, Frida Kahlo, Billie Jean King, Cathy Freeman, and Malala Yousafzai.
Photo credit: Well-Behaved Women/Instagram
Through a series of powerful and often humorous songs, the musical explores how these women’s actions and “misbehaviour” shaped the course of history.
Dean, known for her work as a musical director and arranger on Broadway, as well as for composing the award-winning Off-Broadway musical “Renascence,” brings her considerable talent to this innovative production.
The show features a talented ensemble of performers, including:
Stefanie Caccamo
Zahra Newman
Elenoa Rokobaro
Ursula Yovich
These accomplished actors will bring to life the diverse array of historical figures, offering audiences a fresh perspective on their stories and legacies.
A Theatrical Feast
“Well-Behaved Women” promises to be more than just a musical – it’s a celebration of female empowerment and a reminder of the impact that individual voices can have on the world. By reimagining these historical figures through song, the production offers a unique and engaging way to connect with their stories and reflect on their continuing relevance.
Don’t miss this extraordinary musical event at Belvoir Street Theatre’s Upstairs Theatre, located at 18 Belvoir St, Surry Hills. To secure your tickets and be part of this celebration of legendary women, visit Belvoir’s website today.
The award-winning finger bun has been lauded for its gourmet twist on the classic Australian treat, featuring dried cranberries, golden raisins, currants, and a pink cream cheese frosting, all generously topped with butter from Coppertree Farm.
The bakery, with locations in both Surry Hills and Circular Quay, ‘takes the bake’ with this prestigious title after the public voted in the annual awards, which recognise the best local food and experiences across the country.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
A Fresh Take on a Classic
Co-owner Ben Milgate credits the success of their finger buns to the winning combination of high-quality ingredients and a modern twist on the traditional recipe. Instead of the usual Boston icing found on most finger buns, Humble Bakery uses a cream cheese frosting, a standout feature for many customers.
Ben said the bakery aimed to evoke nostalgia, bringing back memories of childhood treats while offering a fresh, gourmet experience. He noted that the buns are made fresh daily, starting early in the morning, and often sell out before midday due to their popularity. He shared that the finger buns have a special place in Australian culture, cherished for their simplicity and ability to evoke fond memories.
Community Recognition
Rebecca Hurley, a travel expert from Wotif, highlighted that the Uniquely Aussie Awards aim to celebrate the unique gems found across Australia, based on votes from over a thousand people. She mentioned that these awards not only acknowledge great food but also capture the spirit of Australian culture and the joy of discovering local favourites.
Alongside Humble Bakery’s win, the awards also recognised other local favourites, including Kenilworth Bakery in Queensland for the best sausage roll, and The Terrace Rooftop Bar in Brisbane for the best hotel bar.
The awards showcase the diversity and quality of local Australian offerings, from food to experiences, emphasising the pride Australians have in their local businesses and iconic treats.
Follow Humble Bakery on Facebook for updates about their store.
Located at the intersection of Cleveland and Baptist Streets, the soon-to-open Wunderlich Lane culinary and retail precinct marks a significant transformation of the former Surry Hills Shopping Village site, breathing new life into the suburb’s heart.
At the epicentre of Wunderlich Lane will be Olympus, a sprawling 200-seat Greek garden restaurant helmed by renowned restaurateur Jonathan Barthelmess.
Drawing inspiration from his travels through Greece, Barthelmess aims to showcase the diversity and richness of Greek cuisine, focusing on traditional and regional dishes from the mountainous regions.
Adding to the culinary mosaic, House Made Hospitality is set to unveil three distinct venues within the precinct. An all-day café-wine bar will cater to those seeking a casual yet refined experience, while a dedicated cocktail bar will offer expertly crafted libations. Completing the trio will be an Asian-inspired restaurant showcasing the culinary talents of Chef Andrianto Wirya.
Italian cuisine will also have its place in Wunderlich Lane, with Chef Federico Zanellato, owner of the acclaimed LuMi restaurant, set to open a wood-fired pizzeria. This venture promises to be more than just a pizzeria, offering a diverse menu beyond traditional pizza offerings.
Wunderlich Lane isn’t just about food. The precinct will also be home to The Eve, a hotel with 102 stylish rooms. Over 100 residential apartments will enhance the area’s appeal as a vibrant urban hub. A curated selection of high-end retail outlets will complement the dining options, creating a multifaceted destination for locals and visitors.
The Surry Hills Village project, of which Wunderlich Lane is a crucial component, represents a $60 million investment in revitalising the area. A contemporary, mixed-use development that considers the community’s changing needs has replaced the site’s previous incarnation as a shopping centre, known as the “murder mall.”
Wunderlich Lane’s commitment to culinary excellence extends beyond its restaurants. The precinct will feature diverse specialty food stores, including a flagship Harris Farm Markets. Spanning approximately 1,200 square metres, this market will showcase a wide selection of fresh produce, gourmet groceries, and artisanal products.
With its blend of high-quality dining, boutique retail, and vibrant atmosphere, Wunderlich Lane is poised to become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and discerning shoppers alike. As the precinct prepares to open in late 2024, Surry Hills residents and visitors can anticipate a new era of culinary delights and urban experiences.
Sam Einfeld, a 45-year-old former Waverley councillor and lawyer, appeared in court today, August 22, for a sentencing hearing following his violent assault on 82-year-old Margot Priday in her Surry Hills home back in April 2022.
The court heard that Einfeld, who had been battling a decade-long addiction to prescription medication, rammed his car through Mrs. Priday’s garage door before physically attacking her as she lay defenseless on the floor. The Waverley councillor and lawyer’s assault left the elderly widow with cuts, bruises, and a fractured finger.
In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mrs. Priday described the lasting effects of the “violent, senseless and unprovoked” attack. “I am wary in public spaces and fearful in private spaces. I startle in my own home and struggle to sleep,” her statement revealed, highlighting the profound impact on this long-time Surry Hills resident’s sense of safety and well-being.
The incident has raised concerns about community safety in Surry Hills, particularly for vulnerable residents. Mrs. Priday’s daughter, Polly, previously expressed their fear for their safety and desire to see Einfeld locked up again.
Einfeld, who was known to the Priday family and had been a promising local politician, told the court that his time in custody had forced him to confront the consequences of his addiction. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I can never forgive myself for what I did, and I’m sorry.”
Einfeld admitted he had not previously sought treatment for his addiction, despite facing charges for separate assaults in 2017 and 2019.
Did you know that the Surry Hills campus of Torrens University is a “super campus,” accommodating up to 14,000 students and offering health, business, and hospitality programmes in a heritage-listed site that seamlessly blends historic elements with modern design? It even has a mock hotel lobby for hospitality students, and a fully operational, student-led health clinic called The Practice.
The campus also boasts industry-standard, future-proof learning environments that will benefit students across health, nursing, and hospitality disciplines. It will also house the university’s Social Enterprise Hub, which is set to launch impactful projects, and The Practice Wellbeing Centre, a low-cost health clinic open to the community. These initiatives underline Torrens University’s commitment to social responsibility as a certified B Corporation.
A Milestone Celebration with Government and Industry Leaders
The state-of-the-art campus was inaugurated with a grand celebration on 13 April attended by notable figures such as Alister Henskens, NSW Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology and Minister for Skills and Training, and John Ajaka, Former State Minister and Chair of Sydney Local Health District Board. Their presence underscored the university’s strong ties with business and government in New South Wales.
Henskens commended Torrens University for its close industry partnerships and highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and universities in driving innovation and job growth.
After two years of online learning due to the pandemic, students and staff are thrilled to reunite at their new home near Central Station.
The campus building, a heritage-listed site, seamlessly blends historic elements with modern design. It features cutting-edge technology for teaching and learning, including a mock hotel lobby for hospitality students and a fully operational, student-led health clinic called The Practice.
Health students will benefit from specialised facilities such as a dispensary for Western Herbal Medicine students, advanced 3D imaging technology for anatomy and physiology classes, and fully equipped hospital labs for nursing students.
The Surry Hills campus is designed to reflect the university’s core values. The emphasis is on fostering industry connections, promoting student well-being, and providing hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for leadership roles in their chosen fields.
The iconic Evening Star Hotel in Surry Hills has been sold to Universal Hotels, marking a significant change in ownership for the historic Sydney pub directly opposite Central Station.
JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group confirmed the sale on the 7th of August 2024, though the exact date the deal was closed was not specified.
The Evening Star Hotel has long been a fixture in Surry Hills, known for its colourful trading history and popularity among media and newspaper tycoons in past years. Its prime location on Elizabeth Street, opposite Central Station, has made it a notable establishment in the area.
Photo Credit: Evening Star Hotel/Google Maps
The Evening Star Hotel offers a range of services including food and beverage options, as well as gaming facilities with 24 electronic gaming machines. Its strategic position allows it to benefit from growth in the Southern CBD, including developments in the Central Station and Tech Central Precincts.
JLL Hotels’ Managing Director Ben McDonald and Senior Vice President Kate MacDonald handled the transaction. The hotel was sold on behalf of private operators who own several hotels in Regional NSW. It was purchased by Universal Hotels, owned by the Kospetas Family, adding to their portfolio and bringing their total to 17 venues across NSW.
The sale has generated significant interest in the industry, drawing strong attention from publicans seeking exposure in a tightly held market segment. This transaction positions JLL for a leading role in the 2025 fiscal year and is expected to be the first of many transaction announcements in the coming months.
Mr McDonald stated that the firm’s main objective is to improve their clients’ investment strategies, whether buying or selling. He noted that both parties involved in this transaction pleased with the outcome.
Hundreds of enthusiastic diners formed long lines in Surry Hills, enduring the cold weather to try a newly launched ramen restaurant, only to discover at the end of the evening just how much social media, some clever brand positioning, and social pressure can affect one’s perception of the ‘truth.’
What was promised? An exclusive serving of high-quality ramen from a mysterious new eatery rumoured to have journeyed across the globe. What was the reality? A meticulously planned practical joke by YouTuber Stanley Chen, who converted a modest living room into a mock five-star restaurant, serving only instant noodles along with a touch of irony.
The Deceptive Setup
Mr Chen, known for his sharp wit and social experiments, decided to pull back the curtain on the pretentiousness of the high-end dining scene. With a grudge against overpriced, underwhelming restaurants, he set out to see if he could convince people to fall in love with a restaurant that didn’t even exist.
Mr Chen shared a disappointing experience from his past job at a restaurant. He explained that the eatery claimed to serve fresh food, but in reality, the meals were pre-cooked elsewhere and simply reheated. He was shocked by the high prices, with dishes costing $30 to $40, despite being little more than fancy microwave meals. He felt this practice was dishonest and almost fraudulent.
Photo Credit: Stanley Chen/YouTube
Enter Nise Janagaru Ramen—a name that literally means “fake” in Japanese. Mr Chen built an entire online presence around this imaginary eatery, crafting a sleek website and reaching out to food influencers with the allure of a bold, uncharted dining experience.
Nise Janagaru Ramen was marketed as a “Japanese Italian” fusion, with the unique twist that diners would receive a dish customised to “their aura.” The setup was meticulous: a living room in Surry Hills was transformed into an atmospheric restaurant with a DJ, dim lighting, and faux waitstaff—all played by Mr Chen’s friends. The pièce de résistance? Instant ramen noodles, the kind that most people wouldn’t think twice about eating at home on a lazy night.
Photo Credit: Stanley Chen/YouTube
The Faux Gourmet Experience
On the much-anticipated opening night, the line stretched down the block as hopeful patrons shivered in the cold, eager to be among the lucky few to taste the ramen that had allegedly been served in private tastings around the globe. As the “restaurant” doors finally opened, diners were ushered into a world where reality was put on hold.
Photo Credit: Stanley Chen/Youtube
Each guest was promised a ramen experience tailored to their essence, resulting in bizarre moments like a couple being told they would have to share a bowl due to their “bad aura.” Mr Chen and his team played their roles to perfection, spinning tales of ancestral ramen recipes and the mystical process that went into creating the perfect bowl. One guest, sporting an earring, was assured that this detail influenced the creaminess of his dish.
As bowls of dressed-up instant noodles were served, diners commented on the unique flavors and textures, unaware that they were consuming the same 70-cent packets available at any supermarket. Some patrons were so impressed by the “Japanese Italian” fusion that they suggested paying $50 or even $80 for the experience.
Meanwhile, outside, the line of expectant foodies continued to grow, with many left disappointed when the 70 packets of ramen ran out.
The Social Media Unveiling
After hours of immersive deception, the reveal came—Mr Chen’s grand experiment was nothing more than a prank, a satirical jab at the food industry’s tendency to prioritise style over substance. When the truth hit social media, reactions ranged from amusement to admiration for the sheer audacity of the stunt. Many praised Mr Chen for exposing how easily perception can be manipulated, especially when it comes to food and branding.
However, others admitted they found the entire experience humorous despite being duped. Some even suggested that Chen’s fake ramen night was more memorable than many genuine restaurant experiences.
Photo Credit: Stanley Chen/YouTube
A Playful Critique of the Food Scene
Whilst some might have felt cheated by the hoax, Chen’s light-hearted apology—and the fact that the event was free—softened the blow. His prank not only entertained but also served as a playful critique of a dining culture that often elevates form over function.
The White Horse, a pub that has graced Crown Street since the 1930s, has emerged from extensive renovations with a fresh face and a new purpose, while still paying homage to its rich history.
At first glance, passersby might do a double-take. The iconic white facade remains, as does the striking rooftop stallion that has long been the pub’s calling card. But step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a world far removed from the traditional Australian pub scene.
Craig Hemmings, director of the White Horse Hotel, emphasises that “there’s nothing left except the horse statue” atop the hotel. This statement encapsulates the extent of the changes that have taken place during the multimillion-dollar renovation project, overseen by the talented team at Farago Han Studio.
Photo credit: The White Horse/Google Maps
The ground floor, once home to the bustling public bar, has been reimagined as an elegant dining room. Neutral tones dominate the space, creating a calm and sophisticated atmosphere. Bold artwork adorns the walls, while French oak tables and a carefully curated mix of Danish and local chairs invite patrons to sit and savour their meals in style.
Photo credit: The White Horse/Google Maps
Ascending to the first floor, visitors will discover a luxurious bar area that opens onto a leafy rooftop terrace. This elevated space offers a unique vantage point, with a private dining room overlooking the treetops of the adjacent park.
The upstairs area, now home to the public bar, boasts a pleasingly earthy palette and numerous cosy nooks perfect for intimate conversations or savouring a carefully crafted cocktail.
Photo credit: The White Horse/Google Maps
Speaking of cocktails, the White Horse has enlisted the talents of Michael Chiem to curate its drink menu. The floral, martini-esque “Benny Blanco” is already being hailed as a standout, promising to become a new favourite among Sydney’s discerning cocktail enthusiasts.
Since its reopening this April, the White Horse has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination in Surry Hills. The transformation from traditional pub to upscale dining and drinking establishment reflects the evolving tastes and expectations of the area’s residents and visitors alike.
While some may mourn the loss of the old-school pub atmosphere, many are embracing the White Horse’s new incarnation. The renovations have breathed new life into this 1930s property, ensuring its relevance and appeal for decades to come.
As Sydney continues to evolve, the White Horse stands as a shining example of how historic venues can be reimagined for the modern era. With its blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury, this Surry Hills icon is poised to create a new generation of memories for those who pass through its doors.
