Riding the wave – The Ship Inn’s journey to becoming the CBD’s community pub
Since opening in August 2020, The Ship Inn, on the corner of Hunter and Bolton Streets in Newcastle’s CBD has become a fixture in our inner-city pub scene.
Guided by owners, Brendhan and Mike, the corner pub has weathered numerous challenges while growing into a community-centric spot that invites locals and visitors alike to pull up a stool, relax, share a drink, and enjoy good food.
Mike & Brendhan
Set up in the former Reserve Wine Bar space, The Ship Inn retains its historic charm while embodying the resilience and creativity of its owners, those of which you would recognise from The Falcon and Fairmont Diner.
The duo’s perseverance reflects the spirit of small business owners who are willing to take risks, adapt quickly, and find ways to thrive despite setbacks.
In bringing The Ship Inn to life, Brendhan and Mike sought to create more than just another pub. Drawing on their experience from The Falcon, they envisioned a space where patrons could gather comfortably in a relaxed and intimate pub-like setting.
Despite their ambitions, operating in Newcastle’s East End has been no easy feat. While nearby developments promised foot traffic and commercial growth, the progress has been slow.
“When we first took on the lease, the post office and East End development was supposed to be happening. Basically, everything has been ten times slower than what we were originally led to believe,” Brendhan said.
“It seems like everything should be positive and green lights, but it’s just incredibly slow, which in turn, affects all of the businesses in here. But we have to keep our chins up and focus on the calmer waters on the horizon,” Mike said.
Over the last four years, The Ship Inn has tested and trialled all number of things to find their sweet spot. Most recently, experimenting with a different seating arrangement, the team have opted for more open floor space, bringing in a pool table, and offering high tables.
“It’s got a bit more of that pub vibe as opposed to a restaurant which is what we really want in here,” Brendhan said.
Alongside the new interior changes, The Ship Inn has just launched a new menu which has been designed with the warmer months in mind, taking a playful dive into tropical flavours with a subtle nod to Hawaiian cuisine.
“The menu is a leaning a bit more towards the Caribbean as we head into the warmer months. We’re just keeping it a little lighter. We’ve worked Spam into the mix on the menu which has been fun. We have a G.I bowl on the menu which is made with Spam.
“Spam was a rationed food for GI’s stationed in Hawaii. It has then stayed a staple in Hawaii, so much so they still serve it for breakfast.”
The drinks menu has also seen a slight refresh as well as keeping things light and inventive, with slushies soon to launch and a Bloody Mary garnished with a slice of Spam for a fun twist.
Beyond food and drinks, The Ship Inn continues to invest in community engagement with their weekly live music gigs managed in partnership with Gabe Argiris from Novotone Newcastle.
Despite the challenges they’ve faced, the pair remain committed to fostering a lively atmosphere in this area of Newcastle and the vision they have for Hunter Street stretches well beyond The Ship Inn’s walls.
“Imagine this street at night. If there were lights in the trees, people playing music along the strip, and all of the venues open. It would be such a vibe,” Brendhan said.
In the face of economic and logistical obstacles, Brendhan and Mike are still dedicated to what The Ship Inn can bring to town, even as they continue to refine their offerings and connect with the community.
More than just a pub, The Ship Inn is a testament to the pair’s enduring commitment to Newcastle’s hospitality scene and their hope to see Hunter Street flourish. While the journey has been turbulent, they remain optimistic about the future, fostering a space where locals can unwind, celebrate, and share in Newcastle’s community spirit.
