Two hospitality young guns are spearheading a new neighbourhood bar and bistro that is set to open its doors in November on Sydney’s North Shore.
Behind the new Folly’s bar and bistro is ex-Applejack Hospitality Group Bars Manager Lachy Sturrock and Licensee of Camperdown’s Alfred Hotel Sam Smith. Supported by bustiness partners and Sydney publicans Bill Smith and Lee Dillon, Lachy and Sam took over the space in May.
Located in Cammeray in the former home of The Public and Epoque Belgian Beer Café, the new bar is undergoing a major renovation to return the site to its former glory.
Kathryn Thompson, Director or Five Foot One Design, has conceptualised the design of the space with an old-meets-new feel. The original timber flooring and chequered tiles of Epoque will be restored, paired with a custom-built terrazzo bar and leather banquet seating.
With plans to make Folly’s the go-to local on the North Shore, Lachy and Sam hope to bring back fond memories of the establishment in its heyday.
“We’re looking to bring back the cosiness and great energetic buzz that space used to have, and recreate that neighbourhood feel where locals happily come in a few times a week, always finding something new to try and experience,” says Lachy.
Named after the nearby Folly Point, the new venue will offer a relaxed bar-service at the front of the venue, complemented by an elevated bistro experience through the back.
Honouring the long beer history of the site, expect to see the likes of Freshwater Brewing Company, Philter and Capital Brewing Co on tap in the venue. Alongside the selection of local brews, the venue will offer seasonal cocktail menus adapting to the availability of fresh produce, and an extensive wine list comprising 80 to 100 bottles from Australia, France and Italy.
Head Chef Antonio “Ace” Espiritu, who brings expertise from his time at Fauna and Icebergs, has led the development of an all-day European and Mediterranean influenced food menu, available throughout the venue and with table service in the bistro.
Folly’s will open late from Tuesday through to Sunday.
