A Storied Venue with New Life
Brunswick Ballroom is a lively live-performance venue housed in a historic Sydney Road building with a rich and varied past. Over the years, the space has been a hat factory, a French restaurant, a nightclub, and the home of live-music spot The Spotted Mallard. Now, co-owners Will Ewing and Andrew Kay have transformed it into a welcoming venue that embraces all kinds of live entertainment.
Diverse Performances with Dining to Match
The programming here is refreshingly diverse, offering an eclectic mix of shows that span music, cabaret, comedy, and more. Many performances come with a dinner-and-show option, featuring hearty dishes like classic chicken schnitzel, steak au poivre, or a loaded fried chicken burger. Lighter bites include pea and manchego croquettes, Southern fried cauliflower bites, lemon-pepper calamari, and thick-cut fries seasoned with French-onion salt.
A Dramatic Setting and Inclusive Design
Dining here feels a bit theatrical, thanks to the stunning setting of the ballroom. The first-floor space boasts striking stained-glass domed skylights, plush red velvet curtains, black textured wallpaper, and a gleaming grand piano as the centerpiece. Accessibility is a priority, with an inclinator installed on the staircase.
Downstairs at the Brunswick Artists’ Bar
Downstairs, the Brunswick Artists’ Bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a big country-pub vibe. It also hosts live performances, from stand-up comedy and art exhibitions to sets by local DJs and musicians, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back night out.
