PHMG has reopened the reinvented Toxteth Hotel, where “nostalgia meets innovation”, following a comprehensive six-month renovation.
Public House Management Group (PHMG) bought the inner-west pub early 2017 for $22 million from Singleton and Dixon’s Riversdale Group.
The Toxteth – aka The Tocky – holds special memories for PHMG CEO Mitchell Waugh, who cited at the time it was where he got his start in hospitality, working as an 18-year-old for the Murphy family.
Returning decades later to buy it, PHMG planned a broad new look for the historic Glebe pub.
The suburb boasts a population of 11,532 (Census2016), counting 2,393 families with an average of 1.6 children. The updated family-oriented concept incorporates new food and beverage menus, cocktail offering, events packages and an interior design makeover.
Group executive chef Ben Varela has produced the all-new menu emphasising vegetarian and vegan options, and group bars manager Kurtis Bosley has constructed a unique new cocktail menu and wine list, including several of both on tap, as well as organic and vegan wines to complement menu options.
The popular walled courtyard now enjoys the addition of a retractable roof, and outdoor elements have made their way inside, with foliage walls, timber finishes and tank beer pipes throughout. The upper level has been converted to a modern and fully self-sufficient function space for up to 120-pax.
There will be a regular line-up of entertainment and events, such as acoustic sessions across the weekends, Sunday ‘crafternoons’ with local brewers, and Brunch Club on Saturday in the family-friendly Sienna’s Bistro, named after Waugh’s daughter.
“The Tocky holds an immense amount of sentimental value for me,” explains Waugh.
“These walls became a second home as I worked here throughout university; I never quite let go of the energy and vibrancy this pub could bring to the community.
“It is the ultimate honour to open our new doors, celebrate the local, and continue its legacy.”
The Toxteth Hotel, 345 Glebe Pt Rd, reopened Friday 10 August.
