Already a favourite meeting place of many Leichhardt locals, The Royal is set to become bigger and better this spring. The Royal unveils its grand heritage-style wraparound balcony overlooking Norton Street. The 60-seater balcony affords some of the best views in the inner west and restores the pub’s exterior to its original Victorian grandeur of the 1930s.
The Royal has undergone a major transformation over the last few months to provide locals with the best pub offering in the inner west. In addition to the new balcony refurbishments the recent renovations also include expanding the downstairs public bar, upgrading the furnishings, including new carpet and an impressive zinc-top bar, as well as reconfiguring the bottle shop and adding an additional bar upstairs. The addition of lift access means more of the community can access the local from the ground floor.
The heritage balcony wraps the entire façade of the hotel adding considerably more all-weather seating and standing areas. It’s anticipated to be a coveted location to while away a long lunch or drinks with family and friends over views of Norton Street and the city beyond.
Mark Chapman, licensee of The Royal and a Leichhardt local says: “This is an exciting time for the pub and the suburb of Leichhardt. Our vision is to provide the community with a fantastic local that they are proud of and hopefully it will in turn attract further investment into Norton Street and really bring the street back to its vibrant past.”
With the expansion of the hotel also comes increased employment opportunities. “Our fantastic team of hospitality guns have played an important role in establishing the knowledgeable and friendly service culture that we have become known for over the last few years. We are excited to attract and grow an even bigger team of talented and passionate hospitality professionals as we enter this exciting new chapter.” says Chapman.
The upstairs Botanical dining menu has also been refreshed with a number of new dishes….. Fried chicken wings with paprika mayo and salt and pepper squid are the perfect indulgent snack, while those looking for a lighter option have new salad bowls including sriracha chicken, lentils, haloumi and broccolini as well as additional vegetarian options. The Royal’s favourite pub classics remain, along with a range of burgers, schnitzels and meats from the grill with your choice of sides and sauces.
The refurbishments are just in time for The Royal’s 130th birthday which coincides with the annual Norton Street Festa on 30 October 2016. The Royal is a key sponsor of Festa 2016 and will house the best views for the 100,000-visitor street party, making it the place to spend Festa 2016.
“Festa brings the whole community together. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than on The Royal balcony overlooking the parade. The view and atmosphere will be an experience not to be missed!” says Chapman.