Mitchell Waugh’s PHMG has executed a major transformation on its upmarket Humphrey’s Hotel, doubling its bar capacity and creating a distinct destination for sports fans.
The elegant pub opened late 2023, occupying a full floor of the new One Hurstville Plaza, in the heart of Hurstville, aiming to “redefine the concept of the local”.
Until now known for its elevated bistro menu and family-friendly dining, with a menu inspired by its proximity to both paddocks and the sea, the revised Humphrey’s sets out to be a “multi-faceted hospitality destination”.
An invitation-only launch event took place over the weekend (17 May) to unveil the new dedicated Sports Bar. Joining media and VIP patrons in attendance were local stakeholders, the Hurstville CBA team, the chairman of Georges River Business Chamber, and representatives of Coombes Property Group, which owns One Hurstville Plaza.
“The launch of Humphrey’s Sports Bar was a resounding success – an electric night that brought the community together and truly set the tone for what’s to come,” says PHMG CFO Regan Shepherd.
“It was great to have local businesses, council members and the general public coming together to enjoy the space.”
Humphrey’s interior was a creation of Melissa Collison Design, intended to make everyone feel like a regular.
It now features two bars, providing service areas dedicated to both the public bar and the restaurant.
The configuration complements the original restaurant service area, allowing both teams to operate independently. This improves service speed in both areas, for a more efficient experience for both diners and drinkers.
Importantly, the redevelopment has created a well-defined sports-focused zone equipped to host anything from regular NRL matches to UFC main events, complete with a big screen and dedicated viewing areas.
Expanding on the expansion, the in-house mixologists have cooked up a menu of signature cocktails that are only available in the Sports Bar, offering creative recreations of pub classics, and bespoke seasonal flavours.
And to reflect Humphrey’s ongoing commitment to loyalty from the community and its evolving identity as a gathering place for the wider St George region, every day for the first three months the Sports Bar is open locals are being provided “an extended welcome offer” by way of $5 schooners on selected beers.
The reconfiguration and ticketed launch event mark a major milestone in PHMG’s broader vision for the venue, striving to reinvigorate Humphrey’s offering and expand its patron base without losing its roots.
“The investment into this new space is about giving locals a venue that evolves with them. We’ve created a place where you can grab a steak, catch the game, or stay for a few cocktails – all under one roof.
“From the energy on the floor to the overwhelming turnout and positive feedback, it’s clear that Humphrey’s has landed as the new go-to destination for sport,” Shepherd says.
