In 2020, I opened Palinopsia’s first-ever pop-up store on Newcastle’s iconic Hunter Street. The setup was modest: ceramics on trestle tables and me, hoping for the best. Among the early visitors was Lukas Thodas, a familiar face in the city’s hospitality scene and then-manager of The Lucky Hotel, just a few doors down. At the time, Lukas was on the brink of his own 'pop-up' moment, preparing to take his first step as an owner-operator by bringing new life to another local icon, The Grand Hotel - a historic 1890s pub with deep roots in the community. Neither of us could have predicted that our paths would cross again four years later in a culinary collaboration that perfectly blends our shared love for tradition and community.

'In 2020, I opened Palinopsia’s first-ever pop-up store on Newcastle’s iconic Hunter Street. The setup was modest: ceramics on trestle tables and me, hoping for the best. Among the early visitors was Lukas Thodas'

Last week, I caught up with Lukas to reflect on our parallel business journeys and hear his exciting plans for The Grand Hotel. Our conversation quickly turned to what makes a venue truly special, and it was clear that Lukas had always dreamt of owning a pub that wasn’t just a destination but a true local haunt—a place where the growing number of Newcastle CBD residents could feel at home.

'Neither of us could have predicted that our paths would cross again four years later in a culinary collaboration that perfectly blends our shared love for tradition and community.'

'I wanted a place with history, something that felt old school and connected with the community,' Lukas shared. With partners John and Phil Elsley, the same team behind local favourites like The Good Folk Brewery, The Whistler, and The Blind Monk, he gradually transformed The Grand into a venue with soul and character, reclaiming its status as a cherished local watering hole. It’s now a beloved spot, and I’m one of its many fans.

"We're paying homage in our own way to the history of this building and the part it’s played within the community for over 130 years."

The success of The Grand Hotel lies in its ability to connect with a broad demographic. In the basement of the Pub is the New York style speak easy bar, The Underground, with its deep roots in Newcastle’s music scene, it has become a cultural hub. I recently attended a Jazz Night where a young saxophonist made his debut—a tradition of nurturing young local talent that has persisted for decades.

The nostalgia and history embedded in the space are palpable, making it a place where the past and present blend seamlessly. “With the Underground renovations complete, we’re bringing more live music to the public bar starting from the October long weekend. We want to open the windows to the street, invite beachgoers in, and create a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The jazz will continue to thrive, and we’re excited to see where it takes us”.

The Hotel’s accommodation, occupying the top two floors of the historic building, has also become a sought-after experience. Its heritage rooms, rich with history and only a block away from Newcastle beach, often sell out weeks in advance, drawing visitors who appreciate the unique charm of a building that has been welcoming guests since 1891. 

In late 2023, Lukas introduced the Wine Dinners at The Grand as a way to offer the community something special during the winter months. “The wine dinners have been going really well,” Lukas shared. “They usually sell out, and the Howard Park collaboration is our first interstate wine collaboration. Supporting the Hunter Valley Wine region is important and a priority, but we like to mix it up now and again. Margaret River is an iconic region.”

Our upcoming collaboration marks the fifth event in this series, featuring our handmade ceramic plates for each course, expertly paired with Howard Park wines from Western Australia. This collaboration celebrates our shared journey as business owners contributing to the community in our own ways.

Lukas reflected on why he approached us for this collaboration, saying  “I passed by your pop-up store daily and was immediately drawn to your ceramics. After buying a new house, I knew they’d be just right for us. When I brought my wife in, we ended up getting a full dinner set. We still love using them everyday and for entertaining, and I knew they’d be a perfect addition to our Wine Dinners at The Grand.”

The Wine Dinner collaboration is grounded in supporting local and valuing community. Lukas’s dedication to The Grand Hotel, from revamping The Underground Bar and Henry's Parlour, to planning more live music, reflects his deep commitment to this hotel and how it serves the community. 'We're paying homage in our own way to the history of this building and the part it’s played within the community for over 130 years.' As we prepare for our Wine Dinner, it’s clear that our shared values have come full circle, creating something truly special for Newcastle.

“I passed by your pop-up store daily and was immediately drawn to your ceramics. After buying a new house, I knew they’d be just right for us.”

Join us on August 29th for an evening of exceptional food, wine, ceramics and conversation. Secure your spot by following the link here—spaces are limited, so don’t miss out. Below, you’ll find the menu and the exquisite wines from Howard Park. Did I mention we will be holding a blind tasing with the winner taking home a $200 ceramic gift box! We look forward to sharing this special night with you!

The Menu

AMUSE BOUCHE

Petit Jeté NV

– Fried oyster with champaign emulsion

– Baked brie, maple pecan & caramelised apple lavosh

Served on Maya Side Plate

 

ENTREE

Howard Park Great Southern Riesling 2023

Howard Park Margaret River Chardonnay 2023

– Seared scallops

w/ lightly pickled melon relish, coconut polenta, red shiso

Served on Maya Breakfast Bowl 

 

MAIN

Howard Park Scotsdale Shiraz 2020

Marchand & Burch Mount Barrow Pinot Noir 2023

– Beef Sirloin

w/ cipollini onion, braised beef cheek, lentils, crispy beef fat Brussels sprouts, butter bean purée

Served on Maya Dinner Plate 

 

DESSERT

Abercrombie 2018

– Chocolate mousse cake w/ blackberries

Served on Maya Lunch Plate