Redefining hotel dining with a fresh look and Friday pasta night
Babbingtons at The Apollo has long been a fixture in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie area, and as it approaches its 40th year, it has undergone a significant transformation.
The rebrand, which sees it shed the Bar & Grill from its name, reflects a shift in both atmosphere and offerings.
“Our restaurant, Babbingtons, is independent but it still coexists with the hotel." Marketing Coordinator, Maree Bendeich said.
Despite its longstanding presence, many are still unaware that this restaurant is not just for hotel guests. It’s open to the public for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner, and with its refreshed interior and a vibrant new menu, the restaurant is making strides to change perceptions.
“We’re trying to break the stereotype of a hotel serving “hotel food”. Our chef, Will Collins, and the food he creates here, is honestly amazing. We were originally known as quite a fine dining establishment, but we’ve literally, and metaphorically, stripped off the tablecloths to bring a more relaxed experience to appeal to a broader audience.”
The cosy new bar space comes complete with European wallpaper, fresh furniture, and décor. Every detail has been considered to bring an air of casual elegance to the subtly separated space.
Bar Snack Menu
For those seeking a lighter bite, the brand-new bar snack menu provides a more casual, yet equally appetizing option. Whether it’s the baked brie topped with maple bacon and walnuts; the Babbingtons bruschetta with cherry tomato, Persian feta, and basil served on grilled Turkish bread; or the jalapeno cheese bites served with guacamole and black bean salsa; each have been thoughtfully created for guests looking for a quick, yet filling feed.
“We’ve aimed to bring a little bit of luxury to Charlestown, but it’s still incredibly affordable.”
This new bar snack menu alongside happy hour available from 4.30pm-5.30pm, Monday through to Saturday, makes a quick stop in to Babbingtons even more enticing.
Friday Night Pasta Night
One of the most exciting new offerings at Babbingtons is the launch of their Friday Night Pasta Night. Kicking off on Friday, September 6, word spread pretty quick amongst locals keen to try the new offer and saw the launch night sell out. Diners can choose between three pastas for just $20, with both vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
“We know our food is amazing, and we know our service is amazing, so we just need people to come along and experience it for themselves.”
Alongside the launch of its pasta nights, Babbingtons announced for the first Friday night of the month, the venue will see live music from 5.30pm-8.30pm, adding another layer of ambiance to its already appealing offering.
A La Carte Menu
The full a la carte menu has also had a complete refresh with Will creating a range of dishes that perfectly balance comfort and creativity.
The standouts? The tomato braised lamb shank with creamy mashed potato, steamed vegetables, and gravy; the chicken breast with lemon rosemary stuffing served with Hasselback potato, roast cauliflower, and herb butter sauce; and their signature Babbingtons burger.
“Will has been with Babbingtons for ten years and has really relished this opportunity to create some new dishes and create a new signature Babbingtons plating style.”
Though corporate travellers make up much of Babbingtons’ weekday clientele, the venue is open to everyone Monday to Saturday nights, with the team hoping that Babbingtons will become the new go-to spot for locals.
“We want people to treat Babbingtons like their local, not to just save us for a special occasion.”
The rebrand and refurb have given Babbingtons a fresh identity without sacrificing the quality and warmth it has always offered. With their fresh dynamic menu, special offerings and events, and a renowned focus on providing a memorable experience for both travellers and locals, Babbingtons at The Apollo is excited to step into its next chapter.
“We’re really hoping to bring an elevated option to our visitors with this change, but we’ve still kept it affordable and approachable. Think beautiful cocktails, great food, and good conversation.”
For those looking to enjoy a relaxed yet elevated dining experience, put Babbingtons on your list – whether it’s for a quick happy hour snack, a hearty Friday night pasta, or a leisurely meal with friends and family.
