The development of Sydney’s The Rocks as a bar precinct and destination has gained another boost with the news that Swillhouse Group is set to open its next venue in the area.
Phillips Foote, at 101 George Street, is a well-known part of The Rocks and Swillhouse is taking over the space, with plans to open a temporary bar, to farewell Phillips Foote, while planning, approval and development takes place.
Swillhouse CEO Anton Forte said: “The site is unique, ramshackle, charming, and we fell in love with it as soon as we saw it.
“101 George Street is in one of Australia’s earliest surviving commercial buildings. The building once housed a sailors’ bar, custom’s agent, and stable before standing derelict until the early 1970s when the Dredge family took it over and established Phillip’s Foote, a classic bar and steak house.
“Located opposite the MCA on George St, it comprises a warren of different spaces, cobblestoned laneways, outdoor dining rooms, and classic pub vibes. It’s gnarly and beautiful, rough and sophisticated. We love it.”
The initial takeover of Phillips Foote promises to be a fresh, summery and fun bar with simple food, al-fresco seating, friendly service and “a ripping party vibe”. Swillhouse will run the temporary bar from November 1 until the end of February when building work on the new venue will commence.
Anton added: “As impressive as the bones of this site are, we intend to change a lot. We are going to keep the bustly charm and loose atmosphere of the current space, and update the offering to something contemporary, delicious, and cool.
“We’ve got a bit of work in front of us, council submissions and heritage approvals, then a few months of building before the place is ready to open. We think that this whole process will take a little over six months to complete.
“As we dig into the planning process, we’re going to clean up the space and farewell Phillip’s Foote with a temporary bar for the summer.”
It’s an exciting move in the development of The Rocks, which already has whisky bar The Doss House, with gin and cocktail bar Frank Mac’s opening from the same team today. There’s beers to be enjoyed at Tap Rooms and Barrelhouse Group is opening its distillery and bar next month as well.
Le Foote promises a new dimension as a Euro Wine Bar, with Head Sommelier, Gerald Ryan, saying the venue will have, “Weird and wonderful wines – some you have heard of, some you have not. We are representing iconic producers from around the world, and some new wave discoveries.
“This will be a short, accessible list of Euro and Australian thirst-quenching whites, chilled reds, and fresh, easy-drinking selections.”
In welcoming Swillhouse to The Rocks, Anita Mitchell, CEO Placemaking NSW said: “We are really excited to have Swillhouse choosing to establish a footprint at The Rocks. They are joining other quality operators, as we continue to provide the very best dining and beverage experience available.”
Food-wise Alberto Lounge Head Chef will serve a selection of finely sliced cured meats, perfectly ripe cheeses, house-made pickles, and marinated olives, in addition there will be live entertainment comprising surprise performances, special appearances, and last-minute announcements.
