When Merivale purchased the iconic Newport Arms earlier this year from long-running owners The Bayfield Family, interest was almost immediate. What would Justin Hemmes and his crew do the new venue? They had already showcased their ambition and knack for creating super-sized and extravagant hospitality hubs with the likes of ivy and Coogee Pavilion, so the potential for this Northern Beaches icon, which is almost like a waterside fortress, was exciting to say the least. Now with a new title, The Newport, Merivale have revealed their plans.
Now we at least know some of what Merivale have in store for the new venue, and it includes a gourmet pizzeria, a ‘vintage gymnasium’, a massive waterfront beer garden, and even concrete table tennis courts. This will all feature in the first phase of the landmark redevelopment, opening up to the public in January 2016. Throughout next year, two more phases will follow, presenting Northern Beaches with an unprecedented mega-venue that looks to be the biggest thing Merivale has done since Sydney’s famed ivy.
Executive Chef Sebastien Lutaud will be handling the dining experience at The Newport, curating a range of food that includes the aforementioned pizzeria by Vincenzo Biondini, who handles the wood-fired goodness at Coogee Pavilion and has become quite the superstar on Sydney’s food scene. More food and drink options include The Burger Shack with grass-fed Beef Burgers and classic Fish & Chips; a range of seasonal Salads and Australian meats, including Smoked Brisket and BBQ Chicken; and a whole heap of pastries, milkshakes, smoothies, and freshly-brewed coffee by Sydney’s Will & Co..
Of course, there will be plenty for those who love their wine, beers, and cocktails, with an alfresco deck bar offering full views of Pittwater among other bars across the expansive venue.
It seems Merivale have really embraced the rich heritage of the site, consistently working the design towards The Newport’s idyllic location, drawing upon the nostalgia of the venue to help bring it into the current era. A focus on spectacular landscaping by Daniel Baffsky, featuring everything from flowering shrubs and jacarandas to Chinese elms and date palms, has shaped the venue for all seasons, drawing on influence from Montauk, The Hamptons, and the Mediterranean.
The “vintage gymnasium” that Merivale have included will be a space for all-ages to indulge in games like badminton, ping pong, table tennis, and more. There are even exercise bikes (that can charge mobile phones no less) and a giant magnetic scrabble board.
The Newport will open in January 2016 and will be located at 2 Kalinya Street, Newport 2106. Newport is a 45-55 minute drive from Sydney CBD. For more info click HERE.
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