The final piece of The Beach Hotel puzzle opens this week – introducing Peregrin, an elevated bar and restaurant atop the newly-revamped pub.

While we’re certainly lovers of a good pub feed, you’ll want to make your way upstairs to Peregrin for a bit of laidback luxury – whether you’re indulging in a feast or simply enjoying a cocktail and a few small plates.

Peregrin takes its name from the Latin word for ‘traveller’, honouring a time when The Beach Hotel was the final stop on the Merewether Beach tram line. Connecting The Beach Hotel to its roots has been an important part of the renovations, according to owner Glenn Piper.

“Just like The Beach Hotel below it, the restaurant has been created with connections to the community’s history plus a healthy dose of surf and sand to be a place that feels familiar and fun while offering a fresh take on some of our country’s best produce,” Glenn said.

Executive Chef Adam Rust has crafted a menu based on said produce, all of which is cooked over a traditional charcoal grill in the heart of Peregrin’s open kitchen.

On the starters menu is smoked Yumbah abalone with fennel, herbs, and lemon, wagyu croquettes with beetroot relish and wasabi leaf, and a take on the classic bug roll featuring Moreton Bay bug, cos lettuce, crispy onion, and chipotle mayo.

The selection of mains keeps it fiery, with dishes like charcoal-fired Eastern rock lobster with garlic butter, whole roasted cauliflower with salsa verde, currants, and almond dukkah, lamb tomahawks with chimichurri, and a quality steak offering. 

“Unfussy and relaxed, Peregrin’s menu has been designed to let the incredible natural flavours of the best local produce we could find shine through. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite after a beach day or spending a breezy evening out with loved ones, we wanted to offer something that gives you a distinct taste of the nature, history, and coastline of Merewether,” Adam said. 

There’s also an array of snacks and small plates available at the bar, if you’re keen on a bite to eat with a cocktail. Think oysters, smoked mackerel toast, and charcoal-fried calamari – moreish pairings for cocktails like the Royal Beach Club, a fresh Earp Just Juniper Gin concoction.

While you snack and sip, make sure you take in the stunning interior details. Local design practice EJE Architecture have created a classic and warm space with plenty of nods to Newcastle’s history. It’s luxe, but still laidback – much like the suburb Peregrin calls home.

Peregrin opens its doors this Friday February 9, and bookings are now available. Drop in for a cocktail overlooking the waves or indulge the day away.