Bottomless brunches + late night bar + award-winning cocktails
Tucked away on the corner of Victoria Street and Brunker Road in Adamstown, The Nags Head stands as an iconic Newcastle pub with a history that spans over 150 years. But, despite its storied past, this corner spot remains one of Newcastle’s best-kept secrets.
Part-owner, Adam Rummery, who hails from the Gold Coast, brings with him a wealth of experience to the venue, having worked in cocktail bars and pubs around the globe.
Adam Rummery
The Nags Head has been in Adam’s capable hands for the past eight years, during which he and his team have built on the solid foundation. Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, the Nags Head has a fascinating past – including its original name, The Adamstown Hotel.
“In Newcastle, The Nags Head has always kind of flown under the radar. Still to this day, a lot of people don’t even know we’re here,” Adam said.
One of the standout features that The Nags has become known for since Adam and the crew took over in 2016 is undoubtedly its food offering. Under the guidance of Head Chef Scott Sneyd, who was previously the Pastry Chef at hatted Season restaurant in Noosa, The Nags Head menu offers a mix of restaurant-quality dishes alongside the traditional pub fare.
Signature items include the crumbed manzanilla green olives stuffed with anchovy paste; Asian crispy pork belly burger with apple, chilli slaw, and sweet soy aioli; and the Thai coconut braised beef shin with lemongrass rice, caramelised pineapple, roasted peanuts, and chilli cucumber pickle.
The Nags Head’s dedication to inclusivity shines through its dedicated vegan menu, which has been a part of its offering for over five years.
“Scotty has really put the effort in to create dishes that are genuinely good. For vegans dining out in a group, it can be frustrating when there’s only one or two options. Here, they’ve got a whole menu to choose from.”
In addition to its standout food offerings, The Nags Head has also garnered quite the following for its drinks – this year having taken out Cocktail List of the Year at the AHA awards.
“It’s the fourth time we’ve been finalists for that award so it was great to be able to take home the win this year. We’re not a cocktail bar, so our cocktail list has to be aimed at our demographic. They’re fun, quick, and are made with good technique without being outrageous.”
The cocktail list balances accessibility with sophistication, offering everything from your classics like a mojito, margarita, or espresso martini to playful spritzes and top-shelf tipples like a dirty martini and the Nags signature old fashioned.
The Nags Head has also recently grown in popularity with their rotation of unique events, with their themed bottomless brunches absolutely taking off. The next one? Spritz in Biarritz happening on Saturday, January 18 – promising to be another crowd-pleaser featuring four summery spritz cocktails paired with French canapes.
Looking ahead to next year, Adam has plans to celebrate International Bacon Day which is happening on Saturday, August 30 2025.
“I’m hoping to do a money-raising exercise and bring a whole bacon-themed day to The Nags Head. Think bacon desserts and bacon cocktails – think bacon in every possible way.”
Additionally, the team has plans to activate the space with live music, ambient lighting, and table service. It will be a late night bar and brasserie, offering an array of wines, cocktails, and delectable canapes – set against the backdrop of soulful music. Watch this space for the launch date!
“We aim to evoke a sense of sophistication, ambiance, and relaxed luxury.”
From their award-winning cocktails to innovation events and inclusive menus, The Nags Head offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just discovering this hidden gem, Adam and his team are ready to welcome you to their pub, that truly has it all.
