We’re frothing over the news that Freshie has a brand-new rooftop bar and live music venue called Bombies, created to champion Australia’s best musicians and international big-name stars. And the location is a beauty, too. The ’70s-inspired spot is located on top of Harbord Hotel – Northern Beaches locals know that space has been underutilised for yonks, so we’re stoked to see it finally being put to good use.
With views of the ocean (the same beach where legend Duke Kahanamoku surfed for the first time in Australian history in 1914), state-of-the-art staging and a retro, coastal vibe spearheaded by architects Alexander & Co that looks straight outta Puberty Blues, Bombies evokes the laid-back energy of a beach house party. Expect a packed line-up with DJs sessions, live bands, film screenings, comedy shows and more.
Jeremy Bull, principal designer at Alexander & Co, says, “Bombies is the level one rejuvenation of Harbord Hotel, transforming the old caretaker’s flat into a sun-soaked band room and bar in the heart of this surfer’s motherland.”
The signature cocktails feature fun, summer-coded drinks like the Pico De Mango (Grey Goose vodka, mango liqueur, Lillet Blanc, habanero and lime) and the Plashdown (tequila, triple sec, watermelon, hibiscus and sage).
Pair your drinks with spicy prawn tacos matched with pickled cabbage, charred corn, jalapeño and green goddess dressing; tostadas topped with seared tuna, avo, tomato salsa, pickled cucumber and chipotle mayo; and the Bombies sambo, featuring chicken schnitty, pancetta, avo, egg, mayo, gem lettuce and tomato potato chips.
Speaking of Bombies, Glenn Piper, CEO of Epochal Hotels, says: “It’s like stepping into a friend’s beach house where the night unfolds effortlessly – live music, cold drinks and an electric energy that just clicks. Whether it’s post-surf beers, sunset sessions or a late-night dance floor moment, Bombies is where the best nights just happen.”
Plus, a lush new recording studio for local artists to jam and make music is in the pipeline – it's set to open towards the end of the year – as well as boutique accommodation. How good’s that?
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