Durty Nelly's pub sold, set for overhaul

Historic pub Durty Nelly's in Sydney suburb Paddington has sold in an off-market transaction for an undisclosed sum.

Established in 1854, the Irish pub originally known as the Rose & Crown has been owned and operated since 1998 by the Nissen family.

Durty Nelly's was purchased by the Petersen family, which has existing involvement in the Sydney hospitality industry.

The pub will be run by Leeroy Petersen, renowned 'flair' bartender and operator of Twisted Liquid – "Australia's only flair bartending, cocktail-serving, beverage catering event entertainment company".

Petersen intends to maintain the venue's Irish theme, planning only minor changes to re-invigorate the venue.

"I see the venue as having a strong Irish following and will remain true and loyal to its clientele," says Petersen.

"We will give the venue a soft touch-up, but not a total make over.

"We are happy to be bringing Dave Quinton, executive chef from Flying Squirrel and Stuffed Beaver, on board for a new menu and to add something different to the revitalised Paddington pub scene."

Selling agents CBRE Hotels note the uplift in both Paddington and NSW as a whole, having already transacted more than ten hotels this year in the state.

"Leeroy's vision for a reinvigoration of the venue is in line with recent movement in the Paddington hotel market, with the change of owners of the nearby Fringe Bar, the continual success of the recently refurbished Imperial Hotel and the launching of the London Fields wine bar upstairs at the London Hotel," said CBRE Hotels associate director, Daniel Dragicevich.

"The success of the Paddington Pub Precinct concept and the rumours that Merivale are planning to open two new restaurants in the area also underline the improving marketability of the location."

The Nissen family are taking leave of Durty Nelly's to concentrate on their new asset, Glebe's Australian Youth Hotel, which they purchased last year from receivers after the financial collapse of operator Damien Silk.

Source: The Shout, 29 July 2013