Hidden away in an inauspicious suburban warehouse building, one doesn’t expect a contemporary quality food and beverage experience. An industrial speakeasy. An almost cave-like refuge to the glare of steel, brick and concrete baking away in the sun outside.
The Palate Hotel is the dreamchild of owner, Rod Salmon, who conceived of a casual food-focussed venue with quality and heart in the under-served western suburbs of Sydney. Unlike standard offerings of nearby pubs and takeaways, this neo-industrial gem is every bit as quality-driven as you’d find in the city, but with raw authenticity and inventive spirit.
Recycling here has been taken to a new level. In the spirit of Aussie ingenuity, most of the fitout - materials, equipment, furniture, finishes, hardware and fittings - have been rescued, repurposed, re-used or re-engineered. Beyond the box ticking of green regulations and environmentally responsible products, this development could actually have a negative carbon footprint.
A collaborative working pattern between client, designer, project manager, builder, trades, sculptors and suppliers produced all sorts of creative outcomes- each greater than the sum of its parts.
Photography by Alex Donnini Photography
Shortlisted - Australia & Pacific Bar of the Year - UK & International Restaurant & Bar Awards 2014
Published in:
Clubs & Pubs Manager cover story - Autumn 2014 issue
Totalvenue website
1. Main Bar
2. Chef’s table
3. Cocktail lounge
4. Function table
5. Bar detail
6. Bistro/ Dining
7. Dining
8. Public Bar
9. Café / Bottleshop
10. Toilets
11. Street Entry
12. Courtyard
13. Floorplan
14. Branding
