‘Daring’ new James Squire brewhouse to open in the ‘Gong’

James Squire will add another brewhouse to its venue portfolio before the end of the year, opening its 10th venue in Wollongong.

The Daring Squire, which will open its doors on Wednesday December 19, will take up residence next to the iconic North Wollongong Hotel on a site once owned by publican Thomas Bode, who took a punt and found his fortune in the Victorian goldfields.

Lion’s General Manager of Craft, Gordon Treanor, said James Squire is excited to expand its partnership with Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH).

“We are thrilled to be opening our 10th James Squire brewhouse in Wollongong. This adds another chapter to the evolving and successful story of James Squire, the namesake brand of a convict who became Australia’s first brewer,” said Treanor.

For its newest brewhouse, James Squire has put a contemporary spin on the traditional beer hall; interior layers have been stripped back to reveal original brickwork and complement the addition of copper, timber and black metal. High impressive ceilings have been introduced in the main area with the bar and three-sided log fireplace some of the venue’s standout features.

Catering to the Illawarra’s growing appreciation of craft beer, the full James Squire range of beers will be available on tap at The Daring Squire, including favourites such as One Fifty Lashes Pale Ale, Hop Thief 9 American Pale Ale and Jack of Spades Porter, as well as limited edition brews like Close Shave Refreshing Ale.

Head chef Jake Agostino, who will take the reins at The Daring Squire, has created a contemporary pub menu around the James Squire beer range. Gourmet share plates and pizza will be on offer alongside classic pub favourites, with a dedicated kids’ menu for little Squires.

“We really wanted to bring pub dining into the 21st century for The Daring Squire menu,” said Agostino.

“A lot of thought has gone into the flavours of our dishes to ensure items like Crispy Skin Salmon and Sutton Forrest Lamb Rump with duck fat potatoes and jus will pair perfectly with our range of ales.

“Signature dishes even feature James Squire beer as hero ingredients such as our Steamed Mussels in house-made Orchard Crush broth. For me, it is all about using food to provide guests with a sense of comfort and enjoyment after a day’s work or rest,” said Agostino.

The Daring Squire will boost employment in the Illawarra area with the hire and training of 50 staff from the local area ahead of launch.

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