Adelaide’s Arkaba Hotel, a staple of the city’s entertainment and hospitality scene for over six decades, has just unveiled the first phase of its $10 million renovation project.
This marks a significant milestone as the venue undergoes its first major transformation in 60 years.
“The Arkaba has always been an iconic building, and anyone who has grown up in Adelaide has a story there,” Project Manager Anna Hurley tells Glam Adelaide.
“We wanted to breathe new life into the building. The demographic in the area is changing a lot as well, especially with the Glenside development, and we want to provide better service and more options for people moving into the area.”
The Arkaba Hotel’s facelift introduces a number of enhancements including a brand-new lounge, restaurant, and the eagerly awaited 360° bar – a focal point of the venue.
The 360° bar now features an impressive selection of 26 beer taps, showcasing an extensive variety of 17 different brands. This noteworthy upgrade shows up its previous selection of 10 taps and brands.
“We had our first dinner service last night which was so exciting. We’ve had great feedback about the new look and feel of the Hotel. We haven’t had table service at the venue for a long time, but we’re excited it’s back,” Anna says.
Wine lovers will also be pleased to know that the highly effective Enomatic Wine Preservation system has made a return. This innovation safeguards the quality and longevity of open bottles of wine, presenting people with an opportunity to savour premium wines by the glass.
The Arkaba Hotel has also introduced an all-new menu, complemented by attentive table service and an enticing drinks list. An intriguing addition to the beverages roster is the Fruit Tingle Billson, available on tap.
The beloved Top of the Ark, a space cherished by patrons for years, has also undergone a refreshing transformation to continue hosting events. With a refreshed visual aesthetic and the iconic disco ball restored, the space now boasts state-of-the-art audio-visual technology.
“I’m really excited to open the new space on Saturday with a sold-out 600 person show for Mr Buzzy, who’s one of Adelaide’s top party bands. It will have a whole new concert sound system and lighting,” Anna says.
“We’ve had incredible bands up there and these new systems will take that to the next level.”
The Hotel has also unveiled plans for a forthcoming functions room opening in October, featuring two distinct spaces that promise to accommodate both social and corporate events. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and versatility, this space aims to become a hub for dynamic gatherings, from celebrations to seminars.
The Arkaba Hotel’s commitment to innovation is also evident in the upcoming renovation of Sporty’s Bar, a cherished fixture in the establishment. Anticipated to open by the end of November, the rejuvenated Sporty’s Bar + Arena promises patrons an immersive sports-viewing experience.
The space will be equipped with an impressive array of large screens and an extended outdoor area.
“It will have a massive five-metre wide screen and a funnel bar around it (like a sports stadium). It will be all sport all the time, with a really beautiful design. It will be a great place for sporting events and family outings,” Anna says.
The venue has already welcomed 23 new staff members and is gearing up to hire an additional 50 team members by the project’s completion.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Arkaba Hotel continues its transformation journey, ushering in an era of modern luxury and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Adelaide.
The Arkaba Hotel
Where: 150 Glen Osmond Road, Fullarton, Adelaide, SA, Australia, South Australia
When: Monday 7am – 12am, Tuesday 7am – 1am, Wednesday 7:00 – 2:00am, Thursday 7am – 2:30am, Friday 7am – 3am, Sunday 7am – 12am
More info: Click here
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