The Cleveland Street revival is now officially here thanks to the re-opening of the Norfolk Hotel. This is a new breed of pub offering from James Miller (Ruby L’otel) and James Wirth (Flinders Hotel and Duke Bistro) who have blown away the cobwebs of this once tired venue, but not gentrified the joint beyond recognition.

The new look Norfolk Hotel maintains its original sports bar crammed with sporting memorabilia feel, but it’s the garden bar and bistro out back that are really worth talking about. The space is light and eclectic with large bi-fold doors opening onto a lush enclosed courtyard. It’s been designed by Michael Delany, the creative mind behind the Flinders and Duke, and the pedigree can’t be mistaken as a tour of the venue will have you discovering new artefacts at every turn.

The food offering comes courtesy of executive chef Thomas Lim – ex-Tetsuya’s and head chef at Duke Bistro. The fare features pub classics with a little of Lim’s flair, soft shell tacos and a more-ish bar snack menu featuring such miscellanies as Deep-fried Pickles with Ranch Dipping Sauce and the Hot Dog Slider which comes complete with bacon relish, pickled cucumber and crispy onions. Both are equally delicious and only $5 a pop.

The drinks menu is as kooky as the rest of the joint. There’s Jack Daniels and Cola Slush Puppies’, Spiced Rum Spiders topped with your choice of sarsaparilla, cherry cola or Dr Pepper, or kitsch favourites like The Dudeness (aka a White Russian – vodka, Kahlua and milk). For bigger thirsts, try the Folk Sippin’ Pimms, the Norfolk’s take on the Pimms Cup, which with other poisons are available by the jug.

Cleverly concocted drinks and great pub fare are dangerous in combination with the Norfolk’s sunny courtyard.

Hours: 7-days for lunch, dinner, drinks and sport