The Grand National – the Paddo pub on the corner of Elizabeth and Underwood streets – is undergoing a revamp at the hands of the Nilands. Couple Josh and Julie are behind a tidy stable of inimitable seafood restaurants: the of-itself Saint Peter, North Sydney’s Petermen, Waterloo’s Fish Butchery and Singapore’s Fysh, plus the just-closed Charcoal Fish. They first announced the venture in May 2022, and it’s getting close to go-time. Saint Peter at the Grand National will open in July and bookings are open now.

The duo burst onto Oxford Street in 2016 with Saint Peter, the cosy fine diner fit for pescatarians. It’s the spot for Josh’s pioneering fin-to-scale cooking, think tuna rib-eyes and artful fishy charcuterie. The original digs have space for 22, but the new spot has room for 40. Another 30 fit in the adjoining bar, and a private dining room has space for up to 15. Sydney-based Studio Aquilo is designing the fit-out, which is tipped to be a pared-back mix of stone and timber. A skylight keeps the main dining room full of Sydney sun.

The vibe will be significantly different too. While the Oxford Street spot is a diners-only joint, the pub will retain its all-are-welcome charm. Punters are encouraged to stop in for a drink and a bite from the snack menu – where Aussie rock oysters will star. Finish there or continue with Josh’s set menu in the dining room. Lunchtimes will switch to an à la carte offering.

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The kitchen has a rotisserie, a charcoal grill and a pastry kitchen, which will service the restaurant and bar – and cater for breakfast and room service for guests across 14 boutique rooms (opening later in the year).

The Nilands moving in is a big win for the pub, and a bigger space for the pair to do their thing is a big win for Sydney.

The Grand National Hotel is slated to open in July 2024. Bookings are now open for August and September.

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