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A few years ago, I called Paddington home. Most days, I’d ride my moped along Oxford Street, turning into South Dowling Street, passing a seemingly endless construction site cloaked in dust and hi-vis, and wondering what might rise from it.
The heritage-listed building at 1-11 Oxford Street has lived many lives as one of Sydney’s cultural landmarks. In the late 1800s, the site housed Marshall’s Paddington Brewery before transforming into West’s Olympia Theatre in 1911. By the mid-20th century, it had become Sydney’s first twin cinema, followed by later incarnations including the famed Grand Pacific Blue Room nightclub. In 2025, after years of planning and construction, the building was reborn as 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia – an impressive 109-room boutique hotel complete with first-class restaurants and bars. It also marks the first Australian outpost from 25hours Hotels, the cult European brand celebrated for its imaginative design and deep ties to local culture. And I reckon they’ve nailed it.
But before we get into the good bits – and there’s a lot – let’s get the only two faults out of the way. For one, the name is a bit of a mouthful. And two, there’s no dedicated hotel car park. The team recommends arriving by Uber, taxi or public transport – though if you do want to bring your car, there are neighbouring car parks just a short walk away.
What is 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia like?
25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia is bold and playful, with clever nods to the building’s cinematic past seen throughout. Painted a fresh off-white, the heritage façade has been lovingly restored – and stepping inside is like walking into a world of vintage yet contemporary fun. The lobby features retro-inspired furniture and splashes of lime, royal blue and magenta, while the check-in desk is surrounded by old-school video tapes from my childhood memories. You can even watch a film on a VCR machine (you’ll just need to chat with the team).
As well as its funky, plush rooms, the hotel is home to multiple dining offerings, including rooftop bar Monica, Mediterranean restaurant The Palomar, swish cocktail bar The Mulwray and coffee haven Jacob the Angel – the latter three by London-based Studio Paskin from Layo Paskin and his sister Zoe. Plus, there are thoughtful retail stores including Sorry Thanks I Love You and Freitag, and a garden oasis.
What are the rooms like at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
Injected with personality and divided into two archetypes – Dreamers and Renegades – the rooms at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia are fun and quirky, backed up by colourful works from local artist Kubi Vasak. On our (very comfy) bed lay a bright blue and orange toy bird, our hanging fringed lamp had eyes, and there were tongue-in-cheek messages to hang on your door (yes, I am still dreaming of Fiji). Featuring shiny sea-green tiles, a marble bench, Aussie-owned The Skills Skincare products and a striking curved window overlooking the city skyline, the bathroom was a true highlight. Rooms begin at a Medium Courtyard Queen and go all the way up to the Suite, with some including a private outdoor terrace. Guests who book the hotel directly also get to enjoy a 2pm check-in and 1pm check-out (unheard of!) and the snacks and non-boozy drinks in the mini bar are complimentary – yes, please.
Are there restaurants and bars at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
Yes, lots – all overseen by culinary director Mitch Orr (ex-Kiln, ACME) – and they’re a major drawcard. On the ground floor is The Palomar, a stunning restaurant inspired by the flavours of The Levant and the Mediterranean. Luke Davenport, who had a stint at London’s The Palomar, as well as Franca here in Sydney, is the fitting head chef to lead the kitchen. Highlights include crunchy cucumbers with chilli and toasted almonds, mini chicken schnitty with a punchy shika tartar sauce, and a creamy, nutty tahini custard tart with burnt honey ice-cream.
Elsewhere, there’s LA-inspired rooftop bar Monica, which is made for 4pm cocktails, intimate cocktail and wine bar The Mulwray, which overlooks the verdant garden, and specialist coffee house Jacob the Angel. Plus, you’re welcome to take food and drinks from the restaurant and bar to your room.
What is the service like at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
Really good. Upon check-in, we were met by staff who were knowledgeable, warm and enthusiastic – and genuinely seemed happy to be there. Which is a good thing, considering there is always someone at the desk to help you – 25hours a day, seven days a week.
Is there a gym at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
There’s no gym on-site, though guests are welcome to make use of the complimentary bike hire to explore the neighbourhood.
Is there a pool at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
No pool here – but given the hotel is a short bus ride from Sydney’s beautiful Eastern Suburbs beaches, a dip in the ocean is in reach. This hotel is more geared towards experiencing the best of the city – or relaxing in bed with a good book.
Is there a spa at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
There’s no spa on-site, but the hotel’s location means you’re not far from some excellent wellness spots if you’re in need of a little pampering.
What’s the area like around 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
Located in Paddington, the hotel is surrounded by some of Sydney’s best boutiques, restaurants and bars. Oxford Street is right there, Centennial Park is a short stroll away, and the CBD and beaches are an easy bus ride away. Paddo offers heritage charm and big city buzz to both locals and tourists – making it a great base to explore the city or indulge in a staycation. Plus, you’re close to Moore Park and the Entertainment Quarter, Sydney Cricket Ground, Paddington Markets, and cult sandwich shop South Dowling Sandwiches.
Why should you book a stay at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia?
The ace location, first-rate food and drink offerings, 1pm check-out and complimentary mini bar snacks and drinks.
And because 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia is a memorable, character-rich hotel with a strong sense of place. Check-in for a golden experience.
Address: 1 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021
Price per night: From $404.10
Closest transport link: Buses stop freqently along Oxford Street
Book now: Over here.
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