About The Chippo Hotel
The Chippo Hotel (formerly the Chippendale Hotel) is a popular inner-city pub and live venue in Chippendale, just south of Sydney’s central business district. Experts describe it as “home to Sydney’s growing music & comedy scene” . After a major overhaul in 2016, the venue was rebranded as The Chippo, complete with a new look and menu . Uniquely, Chippo now bills itself as Australia’s first fully vegan pub and bistro , with an inventive plant-based menu (the in-house “Mama B’s” kitchen) that drew national attention. The old Chippendale Hotel building combines classic brick facades and large rounded windows with modern touches, creating a distinct “cool community vibe” that reflects the suburb’s creative spirit. The venue’s layout features an astroturf-covered beer garden (with a roaring fire pit in winter) and a cavernous basement stage area, giving it a mix of relaxed outdoor charm and cozy live-music intimacy. Seating capacity is fairly small (around 200 people ), making it prized for its intimate feel. Local press notes that after the 2016 revamp Chippo became a “focal point” for the Chippendale community with booming business . In short, The Chippo is a historic local pub reinvented for today – a friendly neighbourhood hangout with a 100% vegan menu, a vibrant beer garden, a lively downstairs music space, and a sense of community at its heart.
Events and Programming
The Chippo hosts live entertainment almost every night. You’ll find an eclectic calendar of events: rock/indie bands, reggae, jazz, punk and electronic DJs all share the basement stage, as do comedy and variety acts. For example, a regular weekly schedule is advertised: “Stand OUT Comedy Club” on Wednesdays and Thursdays , Trivia and Karaoke nights, plus open-mic and dance parties. Weekend lineups typically run 7–11pm, with emerging local bands and touring acts. Check the venue’s site or local listings – past shows include local favourites and up-and-coming national acts. Ticket prices vary by show (often $15–$30), and some quiz or theme nights are free or cheap (e.g. burger-and-beer deals on trivia night). Fans note that Chippo offers consistent live music and comedy each week (one review cheerfully listed “live music, a pub quiz and comedy all weekly” ). Special one-off events (like “Club Miramar” daytime dance parties focusing on local electronic music) also appear on the calendar . Takeaway: Chippo has a busy program – check online for specific gigs and themes. Recurring offerings include free or low-cost comedy and trivia, as well as ticketed concerts by bands ranging from indie rock to synth-pop.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at The Chippo are ticketed through online outlets. You can usually buy tickets via Oztix or TryBooking (links are on Chippo’s official event pages ). Popular shows sell out, so it’s wise to book early – once sold out online, only leftover tickets will be available at the door. Prices depend on the act (local bands’ shows often run ~$15–20, some headliners or package gigs can be $25–30 or more). Comedy nights and trivia are usually much cheaper (sometimes free with a food deal). There’s no formal box-office window; the venue tends to have only a small walk-up option if any tickets remain. In summary: check the Chippo calendar, book through Oztix/TryBooking in advance, and arrive early on show night (especially for Fridays and weekends) to purchase any remaining door tickets.
Seating and Layout
The Chippo’s layout is split into distinct areas. On the street level you’ll find the main bar, dining area and beer garden, while the live-music stage is downstairs in a semi-subterranean room. Upstairs (ground floor) seating includes high-top tables, comfy lounge chairs and bar stools, all arranged around large round windows . The downstairs “dungeon” is mostly open space for standing, with just a handful of benches or side seats – it’s essentially general admission. At gigs, the best view of the band is directly in front of the stage (though it can get crowded). If you prefer to sit, snag one of the upstairs tables or the beer garden (weather permitting). Sound-wise: Chippo invested in a powerful new PA in 2016 , so acoustics are strong though typical of a lively pub (can be loud near the stage). In short, music events are largely standing-room; otherwise the well-spaced pub tables, couches and outdoor benches let concertgoers relax with a drink while they listen.
Getting There and Parking
The Chippo Hotel is at 87–91 Abercrombie Street, Chippendale (near the intersection with Broadway). It’s very close to Central Sydney – about a 10-minute walk from Central Station or the Broadway shopping district. Public transit is easy: multiple buses run along Broadway and nearby streets, including high-frequency routes (e.g. 402, 412 and 422) that stop within a block. The Capitol Theatre light rail stop is also a short walk away. Redfern and Central train stations are the nearest rail links (both a 5–10 minute walk). Ride-share and taxis can drop you on Abercrombie Street directly. Driving is trickier: there’s no on-site lot. Street parking is metered and very limited. Paid garages are a five-minute drive away (for example, the Central Park / Four Points Sheraton car park or the UTS Tech Central multi-storey). In fact, one nearby car park offers 2 hours for only about $3.50 , but spaces fill up. Because of this, many locals recommend public transit or share rides instead of hunting for a spot. If you must drive, allow extra time to pay and park in a public lot – otherwise you can be on foot in minutes from Central or Broadway by bus or train.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, you’ll enter the bright ground-floor bar and dining hall. The décor mixes rustic pub charm with modern touches – think exposed brick walls, neon signs and long wooden tables. The centerpiece is a big polished bar with many taps (upgraded in 2016 ) serving local craft beers, wines and signature cocktails. Opposite are rows of tables and cozy banquette booths; during dinner hours the open kitchen (Mama B’s) dishes out vegan pub classics like plant-based burgers, schnitzels and Jamie Special pies . (Yes: the menu is 100% vegan, so all dishes are plant-based. One reviewer noted “all food items on the menu are plant based” and raved that the vegan “calamari” and “spice bag chips” tasted indistinguishable from the originals .) Off to one side is a staircase down to the stage room. Back on the street level is a large outdoor beer garden with artificial grass, fire pit and picnic tables – perfect for sunny afternoons or cool evenings. (Patrons say the garden is dog-friendly.) Facilities-wise: there are restrooms off the main hall, a small merchandise table on show nights (selling band tees or Chippo-branded shirts), and a single coat rack by the door. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming: staff are noted to be friendly and attentive. One guest-reviewer described Chippo as “a rather chilled and relaxing pub” with “good beers” and a fun firepit in the garden . As for connectivity, free Wi-Fi is erratic in most pubs – plan to use cellular if needed, and come charged up. Security is present at late-night concerts and they will ask for ID. Photography with phones is fine, but professional cameras likely require permission. Overall, expect a friendly pub vibe with a lively show taking place downstairs if music’s on and a smart phone signal weak enough to justify just chatting over drinks.
Nearby Amenities
Chippendale is an up-and-coming neighbourhood with plenty to do before or after a show. If you want a big dinner pre-concert, there are trendy dining options just a few minutes away: for example, the famous Old Clare Hotel complex (with restaurants like Gavroche, casual Silo, and rooftop bar) is on Kensington Street nearby. Progressive cafes and eateries – think modern Australian, Japanese, Italian and more – line Cleveland Street and nearby lanes. Coffee lovers can head to the iconic Paramount Coffee Project or local roasteries in Chinatown. If you’re looking for late-night bites after Chippo (shows often go till 11pm), Chinatown and Broadway have plenty of Asian street-food spots and 24-hour kebab joints. For a quick pint or cocktail warm-up, several bars are within walking distance: edgy cocktail lounges in Central Park, craft beer pubs in Broadway, or even small laneway bars off Cleveland Street. As for lodging, there are budget and boutique hotels within 1–2 km: e.g. Veriu Broadway or Fraser Suites near Central. Many visitors simply stay near Central Station or the CBD and walk or take a short tram to Chippo. On nights ending late, taxis, Uber and the 24-hour city buses will be your best bet for getting back home safely.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Chippo stands out for a mix of unique features and local heritage. Architecturally, its old-world pub exterior and large round windows (a nod to classic pub design) give way to a quirky modern interior – it never feels dated or overly polished, just authentically welcoming. Its beer garden is not your typical concrete slab: comfortable astro-turf seating, picnic tables and a communal fire pit (blankets provided) create a backyard feel even in the city. On a quiet Saturday afternoon you can sunbathe in the garden; on a frosty winter night you’ll see punters gathered around the crackling fire – one reviewer specifically loved the “fire in the beer garden” as a cozy touch . What really cements Chippo’s charm, however, is this sense of community. Industry writers and staff emphasize that since the 2016 makeover, The Chippo became a hub for neighbourhood culture . The rebrand deliberately fused the pub’s historic roots (“strong traditional foundations” ) with a new creative identity, drawing in young locals, tech workers and artists alike. As a result, musicians say they love the friendly crowd and DIY vibe, and audiences love the relaxed, all-ages-friendly pub atmosphere. Past events include everything from all-female comedy showcases (as noted by fans) to queer-friendly dance nights, reflecting Chippo’s inclusive spirit. Many fans call it a “pretty cool pub” – laid-back, with quality drinks and a cozy ambiance – and artists appreciate the great sound in a compact room. Its all-vegan menu also gives Chippo a quirky niche: you won’t find a normal pub roast, but instead sharp new flavours like mock-meat schnitzels and vegan “calamari” that surprise diners . All of this – history, a green menu, and genuine neighbourhood love – makes The Chippo more than just another live-music bar; it’s a cultural landmark in Chippendale’s urban renewal.
Visitor Tips and Information
The key advice is: come prepared for a bustling inner-city pub. Doors typically open in the late afternoon or early evening (often around 4pm during the week, and noon on weekends) – but check the schedule for your specific event. Bring a valid photo ID (18+ ID is needed after about 6pm) and prepare to queue briefly on busy nights. The dress code is very casual (jeans and tees are the norm). The menu is fully vegan, so if you’re short on dietary restrictions the chef is happy to adapt (gluten-free options are usually available on request). If you plan to sit outside, note it can get cold – Chippo provides blankets and a fire pit in winter , but wearing a light jacket is wise. Bag policies are relaxed, but gigantic backpacks or large professional cameras may be questioned (point-and-shoot photos are fine). The venue is not stroller-wheelchair accessible all the way downstairs; if mobility is an issue, contact staff ahead to arrange seating upstairs. Cell phones and small cameras are fine, but full recording of performances is discouraged without permission. Also note: no BYO alcohol or outside food – it’s a hotel license. Finally, if a show starts to fill up, the best spots are near the stage for dancing, or upstairs/outside for a quieter sip. Locals swear by grabbing a patio table early in summer, or a fireside nook in winter. And don’t forget – the music is often best enjoyed with a well-chilled local craft beer in hand. Enjoy the night!
Are tickets required to enter The Chippo Hotel?
It depends on the night. Most live shows at The Chippo are ticketed events – you’ll need to purchase in advance through Oztix/TryBooking (links on the Chippo website). However, open-mic nights, trivia, and some special parties can be free or allow drop-ins. Always check the event details: big concerts usually require a ticket (often $15–$25), whereas casual trivia or comedy nights may not.
How much do tickets at The Chippo Hotel cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small local band gigs are generally affordable (often in the $15–$20 range). Larger touring acts or festival-style events can be a bit higher (up to $30+). Trivia and game nights are usually free or have a low cover (sometimes bundled with cheap meals). Expect to pay a bit more if there's a cover band or fundraiser; always check the advertised price before booking.
Where can I buy tickets for The Chippo Hotel shows?
Tickets are sold online via platforms like Oztix and Barcode, which are linked from The Chippo’s official site. Sometimes local promoters use TryBooking or other local ticketing sites. Check the Chippo event page or band posters for the specific link. Box-office sales are rare, so your best bet is to buy online ahead of time. If a show isn’t sold out, any remaining tickets may be sold at the door on the night of the event.
Does The Chippo Hotel have box office or door sales?
There’s no formal box office. Occasionally the door crew will sell leftover tickets (cash or card) if a gig isn’t already sold out. For certainty, it’s always safer to buy tickets online in advance. If a show has free or open entry, you generally just sign in at the door. In short: assume pre-sale unless otherwise advertised, and plan to arrive early if you hope to get a door ticket.
What is the best way to get to The Chippo Hotel?
The Chippo is at 87–91 Abercrombie Street, Chippendale. It’s very accessible by public transit. The closest train stations are Central or Redfern (each about a 5–10 minute walk). Numerous buses run on Broadway and City Road nearby, including frequent routes to Central Station. The Capitol Theatre light rail stop is also just a few blocks away. Rideshares can drop you right on Abercrombie Street. If driving, note that street parking is limited, so you may prefer to park in a paid lot at Broadway/UTS and walk over.
Is there parking available near The Chippo Hotel?
Parking around Chippo is scarce. There is no private Chippo parking lot. Street parking does exist but only for short times and meters, and it fills up by early evening. Nearby paid garages (a few minutes’ drive) include the Central Park/Four Points Sheraton car park or the UTS Tech Central multi-storey. For example, a Budget Chippendale lot offers about 2 hours for ~$3.50 . Many gig-goers find it easier to use public transport or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles.
Is seating reserved at The Chippo or is it first-come?
The venue is mostly general admission. At live-music shows there is no assigned seating – it’s first-come for tables or floor space. The stage area (downstairs) is almost entirely standing-room, so fans line up at the front on a busy night. The ground floor has some chairs and benches, but these aren’t reserved. If you want a specific spot (a particular seat or table), arrive early. For larger parties, you might be able to save a table by ordering food or drinks, but be prepared to move closer if it fills up.
Where is the stage and what are the best views?
The stage is downstairs in the basement room – a surprisingly large space with a serious sound system . For the best concert experience, head to the front of the stage and claim some floor space. Be mindful that it can get crowded there. If you prefer not to stand, try to find a bench or high stool near the edges of the stage area. Upstairs, the view of the band is limited (the stage is below), but it’s a comfortable spot for listening. The outdoor garden has TVs for sports but no direct stage view.
What is the seating capacity of The Chippo Hotel?
The Chippo is quite intimate by big-city standards. It holds roughly 200 people in total . That includes the main floor, some seats in the upstairs bar area, and the outdoor patio. Once capacity is reached, they will stop letting more people in, so get there early for a full show. This small size is one reason audiences often feel very close to performers here.
Can children attend events at The Chippo Hotel?
The Chippo is family-friendly during daytime hours. Children accompanied by adults are welcome until about 8pm or so. After that, the venue operates as a licensed pub (18+) so minors are generally not permitted at late-night gigs. If there’s a special early-evening or matinee show, the rules might be relaxed, but always double-check the event listing. (Note: Chippo’s all-ages events will explicitly state if children can come.)
What is the dress code at The Chippo Hotel?
There is no strict dress code. The atmosphere at Chippo is casual. Regulars come in jeans, T-shirts, sneakers or comfortable pub clothes. For music shows and comedy nights, people often dress smart-casual or hip-casual. In summer you might wear shorts and a tee; in winter, a cosy sweater or leather jacket. Avoid wearing overly offensive costumes or anything that violates the venue’s respectful community vibe – otherwise just wear what you’d normally wear to a friendly night out.
Is the beer garden pet-friendly?
Yes, the outdoor beer garden often welcomes leashed dogs. Patrons frequently mention seeing friendly dogs relaxing on the grass patio. However, pets are typically not allowed inside the main pub area or near the stage. If you want to bring a dog, plan to mostly stay in the beer garden section. Always be courteous and keep your pet under control, especially on busy event nights.
What food options are available at The Chippo Hotel?
The Chippo’s kitchen (Mama B’s) serves all plant-based pub fare. The menu includes vegan burgers, schnitzels, nuggets, pies, tacos and even vegan “calamari” and onion rings, plus sides like fries or salads. One reviewer was surprised that dishes (like a vegan “spice bag”) tasted exactly like the originals . They also offer weekly specials (for around $15) and a hearty vegan roast on Sundays. Even desserts (like vegan cheesecake) are available. If you have dietary restrictions thinking the food might be too “healthy,” you’ll find it hearty and indulgent. Note: it’s fully vegan, so no meat or dairy is served at all.
Does The Chippo Hotel serve vegetarian or gluten-free dishes?
Absolutely. Since Chippo’s menu is 100% vegan, it by definition contains vegetarian options and is also entirely plant-based. Many items can be made gluten-free on request (for example, vegan burgers served in gluten-free buns, or substituting sides). The kitchen operators are accustomed to dietary needs: just ask your server about gluten-free or other allergies. The vegan chow is a great choice for vegetarians, and it satisfies even omnivores with its creative flavours.
Is The Chippo Hotel wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, access to the downstairs music area requires stairs. The ground floor bar, dining area and beer garden are on street level and generally accessible, but the main stage room below is not. If you or someone in your party has mobility needs, inform Chippo staff beforehand. They can usually reserve an accessible spot upstairs. The venue does not have an elevator. The bathrooms are standard pub style (smaller stalls), so disabled-accessible restrooms may be limited. If accessibility is a concern, calling ahead is recommended.
Can I bring a large bag or camera to The Chippo Hotel?
For general shows, personal items and small cameras (phones, point-and-shoots) are fine. However, large backpacks or professional camera equipment are typically not allowed without permission. Security may ask you to stow big bags or leave them with the coat rack. Photography (no flash) with phones is usually okay, but professional video or large camera setups might be disallowed on live-music nights. As a rule, bring minimal baggage and be prepared for a quick bag check on busy nights.
What is Mama B’s at The Chippo Hotel?
Mama B’s is the name of The Chippo’s in-house vegan bistro/catering operation. It’s essentially the restaurant kitchen inside Chippo. When you order food from Chippo, it’s prepared by Mama B’s. Their specialty is 100% plant-based “pub grub” – vegan burgers, schnitzels, hotdogs, etc. The partnership with Mama B’s began with the 2016 rebrand, transitioning former American-style burgers into a full vegan menu . So dining at Chippo is dining at Mama B’s – all of the menu items you see have no animal products.
Why is The Chippo Hotel called “Chippo”?
“Chippo” is simply a local nickname for Chippendale – it’s slang that longtime Sydneysiders use. When owners Brett Strauss and partners did the 2016 rebrand, they chose “The Chippo” as a catchy, affectionate shorthand for Chippendale. In other words, it’s a playful twist on the old name “Chippendale Hotel.” The rebrand aimed to feel fresh and fun while still honoring the pub’s roots in the Chippendale community . Think of it as a friendly nickname – no deeper meaning beyond being the beloved Chippendale pub.
When did The Chippendale Hotel become The Chippo?
The Chippendale Hotel officially relaunched as The Chippo Hotel in late 2016. The change followed a year-long partnership with local entrepreneurs, and a year of renovations and pop-ups (including a Cheekyburger trial) inside the old pub . The owners gave it a complete makeover – renaming the venue, updating the brand, and refreshing the menu – to attract a new generation of patrons. By early 2017 the new name “The Chippo” was in full use, and the pub has been operated under that name ever since.
