Bondi’s famous Hotel Ravesis is back with a vengeance and complete make-over, boasting a new beachside look and ocean views, with an inlaid backbone of music.
The 1914-built pub on the corner of Bondi’s legendary Campbell Pde and Hall St, has long featured Art-Deco elements such as its crested parapet and majestic arches.
The building has been revived in brilliant hues of white and flamingo pink reminiscent of tropical oasis’ and waterfront decadence, highlighting the tall arched doors and windows that optimise the sweeping views of Australia’s most iconic beach.
Recent addition to and spokesperson for the co-owners is frontman of successful Sydney group Skunkhour, Aya Larkin, who told PubTIC Hotel Ravesis (rebranded from Ravesi’s Hotel) is off and running.
“Our first week of trade has exceeded expectations and set an excellent pace for the months ahead,” said Larkin.
“We’re preparing for a big second week of trade as the Sydney weather heats up and the word continues to spread about the brand new Hotel Ravesis.”
While the public bar is now open and roaring, the 12 upstairs accommodation rooms are still undergoing their revival, nearly half completed so far. They will provide the rare and exquisite pleasure of personal space overlooking the amazing Bondi Beach, unusual even along Campbell Pde.
Leading the kitchen is head chef Peter Streckfuss, leaving his previous positions as executive chef at The Lemon Tree and Sous chef at Sydney stalwart Catalina. Naturally, the seasonal, produce-focused menu is brimming with seafood options, including oysters shucked to order in-house and fish hand-filleted each day. There is also daily fresh-rolled pasta and seasonal pastes such as pear, rhubarb and quince.
Complementing the venue’s tones and vibe will be its focus on music, featuring DJs Friday through Sunday and a “rolling roster” of solo artists throughout the week.
But the acoustic highlight will be Wednesdays, when Larkin’s band The Elements, populated by old hands from The Whitlams, Skunkhour and Bernard Fanning band, play resident every week.
Under predominantly the same ownership for the past 25 years, the group felt it was time for a shake-up and homage to its heritage.
“Hotel Ravesis has a rare combination of attributes, and means a great deal to us, as it has to many Bondi locals and visitors to this beautiful part of the world,” says Larkin.
Hotel Ravesis is now open seven days a week from 11am – 1am.
