Rather than just selling the mythology of localism – that you want to drink where everybody knows your name – The Bank Hotel actually does it.



Over a schooner of Young Henry’s Natural Lager ($6.30) Licensee Jake Toivenen explains: “We know the guys that make this.” Jake drinks in their brewery - it’s just down the road. Another local business, Pat & Sticks, provide the sweeties (ice cream sandwiches) for the new bistro menu. (Yes, they’ve moved on from Sumalee Thai).



With the last reno. about six years ago, they’re in a period of metamorphosis, under new owners Solotel.



Whilst street level is mostly unchanged, descend to check out kick-arse, all-weather beer garden: hanging lanterns, a wooden atrium and overhead ceramic heaters providing curtains of warm air.



It’s just the spot to devour a wintery 350g Pork Cutlet ($21) with Irish champ cake, porky red cabbage and baked apples.



Snack on Sticky Lamb Ribs ($13) with lemon yoghurt;



...a retro-kitsch Smoked Oyster Tin ($12) or...



...go vego. with tasty Baked Eggs, Tomato Sugo, Tuscan Beans and Charred Bread ($14) – nice with 2012 Eden Road Pinot Noir ($9/glass).



The rest of the refit is slated to be ready by the time this year’s Fringe Festival descends – yes, another local win.


*This was my PUB OF THE WEEK on 2GB 873 Fresh! with Luke Grant & Luke Mangan
on Sunday 26th May, 2013: http://www.2gb.com/article/fresh-sunday-may-26

The Bank
324 King Street, Newtown
Ph: (02) 8568 1900