Pub Grub: The Unicorn

Built in 1886, The Unicorn is one of Sydney’s oldest pubs. It has been a place of refuge for weary soldiers and sailors in days past, and now accommodates all walks of life – young and old, hip and hip-replaced.

106 Oxford St
Paddington, Sydney
NSW
(02) 9360 7994
theunicornhotel.com

BAR SIDe

The Unicorn prides itself on establishing a community feel, with students from neighbouring universities dropping by during the day, and local families tending to enjoy the early evenings.

The venue’s open planned space allows plenty of room to move, while cosier nooks to hide away in are also available. There are pinball machines waiting to be played in the arcade and the birdcage out the back is filled with massive leather ‘70s couches.

The menu is a cut above your average pub fare, as head chef Brad Helson focuses his dishes around fresh, seasonal local produce, and is inspired by his farm boy childhood. The gastro-pub angle is best exemplified with the crispy-skinned ocean trout on a bed of pea asparagus risotto with crispy prosciutto. For a hearty winter treat, you can’t go past the six-hour slow-cooked osso bucco.

The vast wine menu includes drops from all over the country, as well as a few New Zealand and French imports. The wine selected specifically complements items on the menu, so don’t be afraid to let the bartender pair your drink with your meal. When it comes to cocktails, these guys don’t stray from the classics, and there are 12 beers on tap for all occasions and preferences.