The Observer Hotel

A place to celebrate life’s greatest pleasures, eating and drinking.

After more than a year of restoration, The Observer Hotel is reopening this September. Reimagined by Barrelhouse Group, the team behind Sydney's award-winning British-inspired pub, The Duke of Clarence, this historic venue once again becomes a place to socialise, laugh, and enjoy great food and drink.

First established in 1848, The Observer has been thoughtfully revived with a fresh new look while retaining its timeless charm and welcoming spirit. Guests can expect cask ales, craft beers, wines, cocktails and a dry-aged meat program, alongside English-inspired pub fare and classic favourites with a modern twist.

With a buzzing outdoor beer garden, renowned hospitality and a philosophy centred on celebrating life's greatest pleasures, eating and drinking well, The Observer Hotel is ready to welcome a new generation of patrons while honouring its rich history.

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Observer Hotel - 69 George Street, The Rocks

The Observer Hotel at 69 George Street was constructed in 1909 and took the place of the former Observer Tavern and Waterman’s Arms which stood next to each other.

So two pubs were demolished and converted into one pub. The current building retains many of its original features. The cellar from the old Waterman’s Arms from the 1840s was incorporated into the 1909 building. Close by, at 73 George Street another pub, The King’s Head (later the P&O Hotel), operated from 1842-1909, and the original building, though altered, still stands. In all there were more than 50 pubs in The Rocks in its heyday in the 19th century. After the New South Wales Government took control after 1901, the number was drastically reduced to about 12.

The Observer Hotel

A place to celebrate life’s greatest pleasures, eating and drinking.

Photo Gallery

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Observer Hotel - 69 George Street, The Rocks