Take a look inside Bistro Penny’s new Upstairs private events space
When the doors first opened to Bistro Penny in August 2025 another significant notch was added to Newcastle's already substantial culinary belt.
Owners and long-time collaborators Joel Humphreys and Nic Wong overhauled the Bolton Street beauty, creating a sophisticated dining venue that quickly caught the attention of locals and put foodies from further afield on high alert.
Joel and Nic
So much so that, just months after opening, Bistro Penny was awarded a chef’s hat, setting the French-inspired restaurant on a new trajectory. One year on, its ethos of showcasing exceptional local produce through classic French techniques and open-fire cooking continues to shape every dish that leaves the kitchen.
Which leads us to the next evolution of Bistro Penny.
At the opening event, Joel hinted that something on the second level was in the works. There were no dates or promises, just a glimpse of what might be ahead. Then, in August 2026, Joel, Nick and the team unveiled Bistro Penny Upstairs.
Accessed via the grand staircase at the rear of the restaurant, the journey upstairs creates a sense of theatre before revealing Bistro Penny from an entirely new angle.
At the top, a wall of wine immediately draws the eye, while the landing offers a moment to pause before stepping inside Bistro Penny Upstairs.
Although recently added, the doorway feels perfectly at home, drawing guests into the private dining and events space. Overhead trusses, oversized bay windows, exposed brickwork and plush red carpet carry the restaurant’s sense of grandeur into the room.
Designed specifically to fill a gap in Newcastle’s offering of medium-sized event venues, Bistro Penny Upstairs is easy to picture hosting an intimate wedding, engagement party, birthday celebration or corporate gathering. Its opening event, held in collaboration with Symphonia Wines, gave us the chance to experience the venue in full swing.
Soft lighting, a long communal table and a spectacular floral display by local floristry legend Peter Herd, made it difficult to know where to look first. But it was the pairing of Symphonia Wines with dishes from the Bistro Penny kitchen downstairs that brought the evening together.
Symphonia Winemaker Lillian Carter was on hand to talk us through the history of the King Valley brand, which began in 1981 and has been part of Lillian’s own story since 2005. Her knowledge and passion for the wine industry were evident, while her approachable manner added a personal touch to the evening.
Bistro Penny Upstairs also saw the re-launch of Lillian’s Premium Sparkling Manseng, whilst a familiar variety a much-thought out and elegant new look has been crafted by Lillian and the team.
With the venue comfortably seating up to 50 people it leaves ample room for mingling, and a soloist or duet to bring the background ambience. For canape style events, 80 is an ideal number and accompanied by the event menu by Joel and the team, your event will be nothing short of memorable.
