Redoak

Redoak Boutique Beer Cafe was one of Sydney most influential craft beer venues, helping introduce many Australians to boutique and specialty beers long before the craft beer boom became mainstream.

Located at 201 Clarence Street in Sydney’s CBD,

Redoak was founded by brother-and-sister team David and Janet Hollyoak. The venue officially opened in August 2004, combining a brewery, restaurant, and beer cafe under one roof.

At a time when most Australian pubs offered only a handful of mainstream beers, Redoak stood out by serving a wide range of handcrafted ales, lagers, wheat beers, stouts, and seasonal brews.

Over the years,

Redoak earned a reputation as one of Australia’s most awarded breweries. The venue became known for its innovative beer styles, food-and-beer matching menus, and educational tasting events that helped develop Sydney’s

growing appreciation for craft beer.

Industry observers often described Redoak as one of the pioneers of Australia modern craft beer movement.

It was one of the first places I went too where I experienced food and beer pairings. Their Raspberry Frambrosie was amazing.

After operating for nearly eighteen years, Redoak announced that it would close its Clarence Street venue in 2022. The owners cited the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the decline in CBD foot traffic as major factors in the decision. Final drinks were served in June 2022, bringing an end to an important chapter in Sydney’s hospitality and brewing history.