Halcyon ushers in new pub elite

After snapping up two Sydney pubs in February, acquisitive pub group Halcyon has revealed plans of possible further expansion.

Halcyon Hotel Group (HHG) purchased both Paddington’s Centennial and Mosman’s Buena Vista hotels in February, in another example of commercially-oriented operators backing the pub industry.

The Centennial has now re-opened after an exquisite redesign and partnership with celebrity chef Justin North, showcasing its ‘High Table’ communal dining concept (pictured).

HHG has also brought on board pub industry marketing stalwart Alistair Flower, who cut short his hiatus after leaving Redcape Hotel Group.

Speaking to TheShout, Flower admitted he has enjoyed stepping down from his lofty 40+ venue portfolio to a more “hands-on” role at Halcyon.

“I was attracted to Halcyon Hotels and its focus on running quality sustainable hotels that service their local communities – something that I too am passionate about within this industry,” said Flower. 

Open less than a month, Flower said the group is already seeing success at the Centennial with its “come in for a home cooked meal” high table concept.

“We have been very happy with the success of the place since we opened three weeks ago.

“Justin and his team have an amazing work ethic and have worked tirelessly since they opened to service the pleasing amount of local patrons.”

Each evening’s menu is posted at midday, and guests can book or simply show up and take a place at the 30-seat custom built table. 

Halcyon will take possession of the Buena Vista this month, with similar plans of optimising the venue’s trading mix.

Source: The Shout - 09/05/14