Metropolitan Hotel back open for business

After a comprehensive makeover, one of Sydney’s oldest metropolitan hotels is back serving up friendly hospitality. 

The three-storey Metropolitan Hotel on the corner of Bridge and George streets in Sydney was built in 1834 but was closed for 12 months for an extensive overhaul. 

Reopening recently, the new look melds its historic lineage with a contemporary feel, boasting new red and cream paisley carpet, feature lighting, and red lacquered windows and balustrades framing its infamous 87 stairs. 

The new model, steered by hospitality old hands Peter Phillips and Grant Fairweather, also offers a new contemporary Australian menu by executive chef James Shaw from Brisbane’s award-winning Story Bridge Hotel, serving up lamb sliders, Fat Yak-battered barramundi, and beef and Guinness sausages. 

Phillips, the former Mirvac Hotels & Resorts procurement manager, says he and Fairweather were drawn to the opportunity to manage the Metropolitan having spent plenty of time as patrons of the pub.

The Metropolitan Hotel rooftop

“After spending more evenings than I care to think at The Metro during my time at Mirvac Hotels & Resorts, I really fell in love with the history of the building, the location and the Metro’s friendly, fuss-free hospitality,” said Phillips. 

“It has been an exciting time seeing the pub come through its renovation phase and now it’s just about getting the word out that the Metro has reopened and the friendly hospitality is back in spades.”

The hotel’s well known rooftop, which overlooks both George and Bridge streets and is described by Fairweather as “the best rooftop in Sydney”, now boasts high tables, stools and sunshades. 

Both the rooftop and the new private dining area and function space can be hired for exclusive use.

Source: The Shout, 23 October 2013