Best Community Bar – The Beauchamp

Nowadays it’s rare to find a good old fashioned neighbourhood pub that actually cares about its neighbourhood. In a world where large, corporate hotel groups gobble up family run pubs, the Beauchamp (pronounced “Beech um”) is a breath of fresh air. Owners Claude Bereny and Sue Ritchy are active members of their local community, having worked tirelessly with local residents, business groups and the City Council to beautify their precinct — championing a new park across the road and planter boxes outside their pub. They were instrumental in having their own intersection at South Dowling and Oxford Street renamed Three Saints Square.  And they have played host to a number of community forums and candidates’ debates over the years. Add to that the plush modern décor, the luxurious Velvet Cocktail Lounge, the upstairs deck and the delicious bistro menu and you have good reason to raise a glass to the best community bar in Sydney.

Corner of Oxford and South Dowling Sts, Darlinghurst, 2010, (02) 9331 2575, www.thebeauchamp.com.au

Written by: Lawrence Gibbons