Kings Cross has been undergoing some serious upgrades over the last year or two, especially around the Bayswater Road to Kellet St precinct. The latest unveiling is the recently renovated retro style Penny’s Hotel and is one of the most affordable options in the area that will appeal to everyone. And best of all, the staff are incredibly personable, genuinely engaging and quite rightly proud of the transformation the venue and menu has undergone.
Whilst it used to be a dark, masculine and unappealing venue before; now it is light and bright whilst respecting it’s heritage, with a dedicated sports bar with massive TV and pokie room at the back, keeping it’s distinctly KX vibe. There a couple of dining areas to choose; an open balcony, comfy booths (although you will have to get in early to nab those!) or high tables.
A sexy teal tiled bar greets us upon entry up the stairs. The menu features imaginative cocktails, plenty of well priced wine options and an impressive bar tap line up. There are 18 beers available from classic Aussie faves like VB for the OG locals to more boutique options for the hipsters in your group. Karen, my plus one is in heaven choosing which beer to try first. I settle on a classic gin Martini ($18) in an oversized glass which is excellent value, especially in this area.
We start with an old favourite: salt and pepper squid with aioli which is cooked to perfection – not greasy or chewy. The three large duck and vegetable spring rolls come with a hoisin based dipping sauce and we opt for one of the daily specials of truffle mushroom arancini. These four beauties arrive on a generous serve of very zesty pesto (is ‘zesto’ a thing – perhaps it should be?!) that contrasts with the richness of the arancini. These should definitely be in consideration for a spot on the regular menu!
For mains we share a delicious prawn linguini with a light chilli tomato sauce and hint of lemon. According to Taylor, one of the super passionate team members at Pennys, the Yuzu Kosho chicken burger is fast becoming a locals favourite so we have to try that. With kimchi slaw and served on a dark rye bun with a heaping pile of crisp fries, it definitely lives up to the hype. The Beef and Guinness pie with ye olde English favourite, mushy peas is already on many orders arriving in the kitchen. It is a particular speciality of the ex-Merivale chef who has worked hard on developing the right ratio of homemade pastry to chunky beef filling.
Come with a group of family or friends for the $18 cocktails and choice of up to 18 beers on tap; and you’ll stay for the well priced, quality pub grub and friendly, warm service.
Penny’s Hotel , 9-15 Bayswater Road, Potts Point
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-3am; Sun 10am-12am
