Surly’s brings American barbecue, live sport, and icy cold beers to Hunter Street
When news first arrived that 231 Hunter Street was set to relaunch in mid 2026, we wanted all the details, intrigued to learn who would be taking on one of Newcastle’s most iconic yet challenging hospitality venues.
Our initial reaction was mixed, how would it play out - a Sydney operator taking over such an iconic Newcastle building? However, after our first visit to the venue, we got the sense the team had done their homework, adapting the original Sydney concept into something that feels uniquely Newcastle.
After more than a decade in Surry Hills, Surly's American Tavern has built itself something of a cult following, and the team have been very deliberate about where the Surly’s brand would go next, and as it turns out Newcastle was a natural fit.
“Our goal wasn’t simply to open another bar – it’s to create a venue that feels like it belongs in Newcastle while still bringing great hospitality, live sport, music and a little bit of mischief that people know and love from Surly’s.”
If you’ve visited the Surry Hills venue, you’ll know it for its American-style barbecue, cold beers, live sports and laid-back atmosphere. While the food will be familiar to Surly’s regulars, the Hunter Street outpost is anything but a copy-and-paste of its Sydney sibling.
The expansive two-level venue has been transformed into a barbecue destination, complete with multiple dining areas, a dedicated sports bar, old school games room, pool table, and scope for a rooftop bar in the not-too-distant future.
Walking into the venue on a Sunday afternoon, Surly’s already feels comfortable, as though it’s been there far longer than it has. But Newcastle wasn’t always the plan. The team had been considering other locations before discovering the Hunter Street building, but once they stepped inside, the decision was an easy one.
Rather than stripping the building back, they've embraced its industrial character. Exposed services, brickwork, and steel remain on display throughout the venue, while bold signage, neon lighting, and custom artwork add Surly's unmistakable personality.
For sports lovers, Surly’s is about to become your second home. A massive screen fires up the game of the week, while smaller screens line the walls, bringing you live sporting action from around the globe. Whether you’re seated downstairs or overlooking the action from above, there’s no shortage of screens to keep your eyes on.
While live sport, cold brews, and neon lights set the scene, the Surly’s kitchen sits at the heart of the venue.
Purpose-built around a commercial smoker and charcoal oven, it's here the team prepares the low-and-slow barbecue Surly's has become known for. Brisket, smoked meats, and classic American barbecue flavours sit alongside a drinks list featuring local craft beer, cocktails, and a strong lineup of American favourites.
The BBQ Platter for 1, 2 or 4 is the way to go. You’ll be thinking about that 18-hour dry-rubbed beef brisket and 12-hour pulled pork long after you’ve left. The platter also features a nice mix of smoked chicken thigh, Texas hotlink sausage, BBQ chicken wings and sides of fries, slaw, house pickles, raw onion and a wedge of cornbread.
Chatting with Venue Manager Joel Ervin, his genuine enthusiasm for becoming part of Newcastle's hospitality scene is clear.
“We didn’t want to just open another venue, we want to work alongside the businesses around us and become part of the community. We have plans to collaborate with local artists, and create a venue that feels distinctly Newcastle, rather than simply importing a Sydney concept.”
Whether you’re dropping in for lunch, catching the game with friends, shooting pool or settling in for an afternoon of barbecue and beers, Surly’s feels spacious without losing its intimacy. Find a corner with your crew and it quickly feels like your own.
While Surly's reputation may have been built in Surry Hills, Newcastle's venue has been designed specifically for the city, larger, more relaxed and offering plenty of reasons to settle in well into the night.
“Surly’s is the kind of operator people already know and follow, so this is an exciting one for Newcastle.”
“They are bringing a venue style that feels distinct from what is already in the market, and this building gives them the scale, exposure and personality to do it properly. It is a strong match between operator and location.”
The addition of Surly’s signals Newcastle’s growing appeal, with established Sydney operators increasingly looking to the city for their next move, particularly in the ever-evolving East End.
Opening in July-August, subject to final fit-out and approvals, Surly’s American Tavern will bring big flavours and something a little different to the CBD’s already buzzing lineup.
