The Royal Albert Hotel has been part of the Surry Hills landscape since 1927, undergoing many changes over the decades. Recently, Publican Michael Bain, has transformed what was a tired old man hotel by into a bustling celebration of craft brewing. Michael, who has been running the Asian dumpling venue Bamboo next door, saw the opportunity of bringing speciality beers, often with single brewery take-overs, to thirsty patrons in this part of Surry Hills. Having lived in the area for over a decade, it is a delight to see this ‘local’ turned into a quality drinking venue and it is a formula that clearly works. The Royal Albert is packed during the week with an afterwork crowd looking to finish their workday with a tasty pint. Expect to find stylish beards, tattoos and good cheer while revelling in the constantly changing range of craft beers on tap, all at reasonable prices (5-7pm is $5 craft beers, wines and spirits every day).
Address: 140 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills | Web: www.royalalberthotel.com.au