General Manager Craig Hardy

After 12 years, at the heart of Kiama’s social scene,  Sebel Harbourside Kiama’s Blue Diamond bar and bistro is closing on 24 March for an almost $1 million refurbishment.

The space will re-immerge as Yves less than three weeks later.

“It will be a more sophisticated venue, still with a beverage focus but with more options and dedicated areas for dining,” says the Sebel’s General Manager, Craig Hardy.

“It will be a contemporary take on a French bistro, with a coastal vibe.”

While the external structure isn’t changing, the whole internal space is to be transformed, with matching changes to the menu and drinks offerings.

In the period of the closure, a brasserie-style space will be opened upstairs.

The creating of Yves is the start of a $2.8 million refurbishment of the hotel, which was purchased by a consortium in March 2017.

“It is a credit to the new owners that they are committed to finishing off all the areas of the hotel to make it indisputably the best hotel on the South Coast,” says Mr Hardy.

“All the work is focused on bringing a sense of place.”

The conference facilities of the historic Infants School will be upgraded, the reception area redeveloped, and the Quarry Room revamped.

“It is an all encompassing concept,” says Mr Hardy.

The redevelopment is coinciding with three year highs for the hotel’s food and beverage operations.

“We’ve focused a lot on customer training, and that has really paid off. Having a new look and feel will only enhance the experience.

“The whole team is very motivated by the changes.”

After listening to concerns from neighbours, the hotel has withdrawn its application to extend its opening hours.

The Sebel will be farewelling the Blue Diamond, and offering glimpses of the new design, over 22-23 March. Yves will open on 12 April.