Australian uber-chef Josh Niland has ventured into luxury accommodation with the upcoming launch of a boutique hotel above his lauded Saint Peter restaurant. Olivia Palamountain reports

Australian chef Josh Niland and his wife Julie are expanding their hospitality empire, transforming a historic Sydney pub into a luxury boutique hotel.

Set to open on January 31, 2025, the Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter will sit above the Nilands' fish-focused, three-hatted restaurant ("hats" are Australia's equivalent to Michelin stars). Reservations are now open.

Located in the suburb of Paddington, the hotel features 14 individually designed rooms above their The development marks the final phase of Saint Peter's relocation to the historic site, which dates back to 1890.  The project emerged from conversations with building owner George Penklis, who first approached the Nilands in 2018 about opening a restaurant in the then semi-dilapidated property. The discussions evolved into the couple's first venture as hoteliers.

"When approaching the hotel, we paid as much attention to detail to the design and furnishing as we did with the restaurant. This is our first venture into being hoteliers, and we knew that we wanted to apply the same level of care to the rooms so that they weren't just an addition to Saint Peter but a destination in their own right," says Julie Niland.Interior designers Belinda Chippindale and Dimity Chitty of Studio Aquilo worked closely with the Nilands to restore original features including marble fireplaces, architraves, and vintage tiling. The bedrooms feature bespoke velvet headboards, king-size beds with ethically sourced down duvets, and artwork curated by Olsens Gallery, including pieces from celebrated Australian artists and sketches by Ken Done.

The premium Terrace Suite offers a balcony with harbour views and a bathroom featuring a separate shower and claw-foot bathtub.The hotel incorporates elements of Josh Niland's whole fish philosophy, featuring fish-fat candles and ceramics made from fish bones. "Opening the hotel allows us the opportunity to fulfil our vision of hospitality beyond dining into a thoughtful 360-degree hotel experience, from handmade chocolates on your pillow to the breakfast cooked by our team," Josh Niland explains.

Room rates, which range from AUD 600 (£302) for a Queen Studio to AUD 1,350 (£680) for the harbour-view Terrace Suite, include breakfast served exclusively to hotel guests in the Saint Peter Bar. The menu will feature signature dishes such as Marron Scrambled Eggs and Spanner Crab Omelette, referencing the original Saint Peter Brunch offerings.

The accommodation also includes complimentary non-alcoholic mini bars and snacks.