The Inner West’s much-loved local, Public House Petersham (PHP), has had a makeover — and she’s looking fresh. Think beer garden glow-up, a brand-new kids’ play area, wood-fired pizzas that’ll ruin you for frozen ones forever, and spritzes so good you’ll start justifying “liquid lunches” as a form of self-care.
A Backyard Made for All Ages (Yes, Even Yours)
At the heart of the revamp is the Backyard and Kids’ play area, which has been thoughtfully designed to roll seamlessly from inside to out. Outside, it’s picnic vibes with oversized umbrellas, lush greenery, chalkboards for budding Picassos, and plenty of space for your mates, your dog, and your mate’s dog.
Inside, little legends can escape to the kids’ zone: soft play, activity tables, sensory walls, and a vibrant mural by artist Angeline Drinan. Translation: your kids are entertained, while you finish an entire pizza in peace. (Parenting win).
Beer Garden Goals
PHP’s signature beer garden is now sporting a fresh palette, long communal tables (for that random-new-friend energy) and smaller corners for more intimate hangs. Whether it’s a long lunch, a family catch-up, or just you and a jug of VB yelling at the footy in the Sports Room, there’s a space that fits.
Upstairs? Lounge vibes and a wraparound balcony with views that’ll make you want to linger long past your “one drink only” promise.
The Menu: Come Hungry
The wood-fired pizzas are headliners — the Prosciutto and Tiger Prawn ($28 each) deserve a standing ovation. But don’t sleep on the Polenta Fries with gorgonzola ($15) or Zucchini Flowers with hot honey ($22). Comfort cravings? There’s the trusty Chicken Schnitzel ($26), the hearty Braised Lamb Pappardelle ($32), and the chef’s kiss Tiramisu Fried Ice-Cream ($14).
And because PHP is dog-friendly (praise be), your pooch gets their own menu. Yes, that means Pup Cakes and Poochy Bowls. Because Fido deserves a treat, too.
Drinks? Sorted.
From house-made cocktails and frozen slushies to a diverse beer and wine list, the bar is stocked for every mood. Highlights include the Strawberry & Yuzu Cobbler ($21) and the dangerously refreshing Frozen Watermelon Margarita ($18). Pro tip: until October 26, it’s 2-for-$30 Aperol Spritzes — and honestly, what better excuse do you need to “work from the beer garden”?
School Holidays, Sorted
Parents, PHP heard your cries for help. From September 27 to October 12, they’re rolling out their biggest School Holiday Program yet: pizza-making classes, arts and crafts, reptile shows (yes, actual reptiles), and more. Bonus: kids eat free every day with an adult meal.
What’s On: Oktoberfest, Halloween & Beyond
It wouldn’t be PHP without an events calendar as stacked as their schnitzel. Expect Oktoberfest celebrations, Halloween spookiness, and plenty more to keep you coming back.
A Note from Solotel
Elliot Solomon, CEO of Solotel, summed it up: “PHP has always been a local favourite and with the area evolving, it was only right that we evolved with it.” Translation: they’ve nailed the balance of keeping the local charm while levelling up the fun.
The Essentials
📍 Address: 292 Stanmore Rd, Petersham NSW 2049
📲 Instagram: @publichousepetersham
🌐 Website: publichousepetersham.com.au
👉 PHP is proof that some makeovers aren’t just cosmetic — they’re community-driven. It’s still the same old house, but with a backyard, a kids’ zone, and spritzes that guarantee you’ll never want to leave.
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