The Norfolk Is Back – And Redfern turned out in force
200+ locals pack out Redfern’s favourite pub to celebrate its grand return
More than 200 people turned out last night to toast the long-awaited return of The Norfolk Hotel, proving Redfern’s favourite corner pub hasn’t lost its place in the hearts of locals. With a steady stream of beef and VB party pies, sausage rolls, mini rissole sliders, mini roast chicken rolls and much touted Lamington Ice Cream Sandos going around, live music, local legends and half price drinks, the “Everyone’s Welcome Party” marked a huge homecoming for the venue and the start of a new chapter for this beloved neighbourhood institution.
True to generous form, The Norfolk made its comeback with a twist. On opening night, the team announced the launch of WIN THE KEYS TO THE NORFOLK - a competition that invites locals to take up the unofficial title of Mayor of Redfern. The prize includes $100 Norfolk Cash that is reset weekly for three months, and a custom-engraved glass behind the bar.
After months of careful restoration, The Norfolk is back with a fresh look and a mission to become the beating heart of Redfern once again. It’s a pub where everyone’s welcome, the food is made with love, and the drinks list celebrates the best of local.
Leading the charge is General Manager Marcella Guilfoyle and Executive Chef Toby Wilson, who are championing local suppliers and bringing some serious personality to the menu.
Menu highlights include:
House-made pork & fennel sausage roll sold by the inch
Beef and VB party pies ($6 each)
Aussie rissole burger with beetroot, cheddar and chips ($24)
Crumbed fish sandwich with green chilli & preserved lemon mayo ($24)
Roast chicken & sage roll with a side of dipping gravy ($22)
Plus Sydney’s soon to be most coveted dessert, the Good Ways Deli X Ciccone & Sons, Lamington Ice Cream Sandwich ($14)
The bar offering leans hard into local - think cult wines by the glass, aperitivo-style cocktails (some on tap), and an exclusive dark lager collab with Yulli’s Brews, brewed to “capture the spirit of Redfern in a schooner.
Marcella said, “The Norfolk has always stood for good times, great food and that sense of belonging you only get from your local. Last night proved that Redfern’s ready, and we’re proud to be back, collaborating with some of the neighbourhood’s greatest success stories and creating a space where everyone’s welcome.”
Added Toby, “The new menu keeps it classic, but everything’s made with heart. We’re working with legends like Good Ways Deli for our focaccia and Ciccone & Sons for the lamington ice cream sandwich, and that’s just the start. It’s a team effort to bring the best of the ‘burb to the table.”
The Norfolk’s interior has been given a thoughtful facelift – a blend of pale greens, warm reds, soft creams, and custom carpet inspired by the venue’s Art Deco bones. The classic timber finishes and brick walls remain, layered with a refreshed energy and plenty of nods to the building’s storied past.
The Norfolk is officially open and already proving why it’s always been more than just a pub.
About WIN THE KEYS TO THE NORFOLK
The Norfolk is now accepting entries for its “Win the Keys” competition, with 50 semi-finalists to be chosen to compete for the crown. 50 people will be called upon to attend on the night of the 6th of June where each participant will receive a number in the barrel. Of these 50 winners, 5 numbers will be drawn and presented with a key to try to match to a lock. Of these 5 keys there will be only 1 correct match. It is then, the inaugural Mayor of Redfern will be crowned! To enter, sign up here