Penny's Hotel in Potts Point brings a fresh, contemporary design to the revitalised historic Hampton Court Hotel. The transformed hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows, vibrant pink and green Spanish tiles, sleek Fibonacci stone bar tables, and plush velvet seating. The hotel's makeover by architectural firm Buck & Simple has thoughtfully divided the space into several cosy areas.
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Guests can settle into a comfortable leather stool by the expansive bay windows to enjoy a bit of people-watching or gather with friends in a booth over a round of cocktails. But the experience at Penny's Hotel extends beyond its aesthetics.
The menu, crafted by head chef Adam Finlay – formerly of Merivale – has taken traditional pub fare to new heights. The menu is diverse, featuring hearty classics such as chicken schnitzel, burgers, pizzas, and a tempting selection of steaks. For those seeking something a bit different, there are lighter options like the fresh Chana split chickpea dal, or the pan-roasted salmon served with white sweet potato, house-made miso butter, charred corn, shallots, and ponzu. The twice-cooked pork belly bites and Kyoto chicken skewers with shoyu glaze and kewpie slaw are also guaranteed to be popular with guests.
The potato scallops, served two ways—with either chicken or vinegar salt—are a highlight, showcasing Finlay’s dedication to detail. Each slice is carefully cut to ensure it fries to golden perfection in just five minutes, using his signature beer-batter recipe.
“Traditional potato scallops are one of those ultimate comfort dishes that, when done well, transport us back to those fond memories of going to the fish’n’chip shop on a Friday night,” says Finlay. “They’re fresh, they’re moreish, but most importantly, they’re best enjoyed when they’re shared.”
Penny's Hotel’s menu is a reflection of the neighbourhood's vibrant diversity, offering something for everyone while keeping prices affordable. Most main dishes are priced at $25 or less, with the majority of the cocktail menu set at $18. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive selection of Australian and international wines, starting at just $9 a glass. The venue also features an enomatic wine server, allowing guests to sample premium wines while preserving their quality.
In addition to the daily menu, Penny's Hotel keeps things lively with a range of specials. There's a happy hour from Monday to Friday, a $30 Sunday roast, and nightly food and cocktail deals. With a 3am license six nights a week, the main bar transforms into a vibrant party scene on Fridays and Saturdays.
- What: Penny’s Hotel
- Where: 9-15 Bayswater Road, Potts Point
- When: Open from 10am to 3am Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to midnight on Sundays.
- Book your table here