The Northern Hotel is targeting a late October 2026 opening in Newport, with plans for a relaxed neighbourhood pub serving traditional Australian fare, drinks, and a game of pool.
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The venue will occupy 352 Barrenjoey Road, in a building previously home to Nopales Mexican restaurant. Publican Paul Fraser is overseeing the project, with work focused on restoring the existing premises and making practical improvements ahead of opening.
The pub’s official website said finishing touches are underway and some licence transfers remain outstanding. The late October timeframe remains a target, subject to the remaining preparations and licensing arrangements proceeding as expected.
A Casual Approach to Pub Dining
The Northern Hotel’s concept is straightforward: a place where customers can drop in for a drink, share a meal, or spend time over a game of pool. Its website described the venue as “Just a nice little pub”. A full Australian pub menu is planned, with hot chips, Guinness, wine and oysters among the items mentioned in its preview.
The pub will take a casual approach to ordering rather than operating as a conventional restaurant. Its website describes a system where customers take a number and help themselves to tomato sauce.
The public bar will remain available for walk-in customers, while a smaller dining room will accept bookings for lunch and dinner. Sections of the venue will also be available for private functions, with further details to come.
Restoration and New Features
The renovation has focused on essential repairs, including plumbing, electrical work and flooring, while retaining the building’s existing character. One change has been opening up a previously unused area at the rear of the building. The space will include a pool table and additional seating.
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The operators have also expanded the footpath dining area slightly. Their website mentions possible future additions, including upstairs accommodation and a beer garden at the rear, but describes these as longer-term ideas rather than confirmed developments. For now, the website indicates that the focus is on establishing the existing venue before considering further additions.
The Northern Hotel’s proposed layout will combine a walk-in public bar, a bookable dining room and space for customers to play pool. Private function options are also expected, with more information to follow. Further details about the venue are expected to be released as preparations progress.
Published 17-October-2026
