Pumphouse at Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour Brews a New Look

The historic Pumphouse bar in Darling Harbour has relaunched to a packed crowd of revellers as it celebrated an impressive refurbishment and return as one of Sydney's best craft beer establishments.


As the crowning jewel of Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour, the Pumphouse, located opposite the Entertainment Centre is pumping once again and the lofty two-storey, heritage-listed space has been redesigned by PMDL architects and decorated with high tables, cow hide ottomans, a smattering of 'love seats' (think highback, two seater leather couches) and artistic mood lighting while the original water pumping tanks which were in operation until 1975, are a prominent feature.

Arguably one of Sydney's most historic sites - the original pump station which powered the city's first lifts, wharf cranes, wool presses and bank vault doors - is offering a range of new dishes matched to more than 100 boutique beers. With a menu that provides tasting notes and advice, the Pumphouse is redefining the way people think about food and beer matching.

Having produced its own brew since 1985, Pumphouse boasts four of its own boutique beers, the most famous being the Thunderbolt brew, named after NSW bushranger Captain Thunderbolt (Frederick Wordsworth Ward).

Working closely with a number of craft microbreweries, Pumphouse regularly has exclusive beers on tap. Highly prized international beers from Europe, UK and the US make a regular appearance at Pumphouse, as does a quirky range of beers such as Moon Dog Skunkworks, Punch and Judy's English special bitter, Bridge Road Bling India Pale Ale and an Evil Twin Brewing P3.

Pumphouse proudly makes a point of fostering talent and rotating upcoming domestic brews with international newcomer beers so customers can be assured of trying something new each time they visit.

General Manager for Pumphouse at Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour, Peter Emery, says "It's all part of the fun to offer Sydney beer geeks and novices a chance to sample something they most likely cannot get anywhere else.

"Our hotel guests love the fact that we have something so historic and unique located right next to the hotel and we've been receiving fantastic feedback from guests who have enjoyed a great meal and fun night out. Where else can you enjoy Sydney's best beers in a century old pub that's part of a bustling 230-room hotel?" he asks.

"Our staff are all beer enthusiasts and love talking to customers about what we have on offer and they encourage them to try something new. I think this is what sets us apart from the other pubs in Sydney and people love the fact that they're sitting amongst 110-year old surrounds, in the middle of Darling Harbour. While we do specialise in beer, we also have an extensive wine and cocktail list, so whether you're a beer drinker or not, there is something for all to get excited about.

"Pumphouse has been operating as a bar and restaurant for over 30-years and has always had a great reputation for providing speciality beer. Now with the renovation and redesign it is great to see the place pumping again and seeing people enjoy the new look space."

Pumphouse Executive Chef Adam Norton has produced a new menu which features hearty pub favourites but also surprises with plates such as the 12-hr slowbraised honey porter beer pork ribs and the twice-cooked orange-glazed duck breast with potato gratin, pickled ginger and baby spinach.

"It was important to come up with a menu which reflected some of the unique beers we have on tap, so a number of the dishes are designed to be matched. The feedback to date has been great," Adam said.

As a progressive bar in Sydney and one which stands out from its counterparts in The Rocks, Pumphouse plays a vital role in Sydney's craft beer movement and together with its recent refurbishment and new menus, is set to pump even more than before.

For further information on Pumphouse and Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour, head to www.pumphousebar.com.au  and www.novotel.com