Details

Opened in 1947 by Abe Saffron, the Roosevelt in Potts Point was the most successful and infamous club in Australia. It brought a touch of Hollywood to town, with wonderfully produced shows, the likes of which had not been seen in Sydney; Sammy Davis Jr, Ella Fitzgerald and Old Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra were flown in to perform. The club became the most important stop for Sydney’s elite, including politicians, high-ranking police, and judges. Early photos show Australia’s high society in attendance; the men dressed in double-breasted suits and hats and the ladies in evening gowns and furs. It was all glitz and glamour. The Roosevelt employed many interesting characters, including doormen and bouncers who became underworld figures. Abe Saffron had an ingenious solution to the problem of the prohibition of the sale of alcohol after 6 pm; have the Roosevelt patrons place an order before the deadline and serve them their drinks later.

In addition to the booze available many a guest, male & female, came to the Roosevelt to quench their thirst for sex and gambling.nnIn 1954, the royal commission into liquor trading conducted by the NSW Police Commissioner, declared the Roosevelt a …disorderly house, guilty of various breaches in alcohol law. Saffron was forced to give up his license and sell the Roosevelt (the venue was allowed to reopen once the new owners took over).

Over the past six decades, the Roosevelt has undergone multiple reincarnations & name changes, including a radio station and, has been the home to various international restaurants.

The Roosevelt has several areas on offer for private events including exclusive function venue hire of the Bar & Diner. This space has an ability to section areas off for parties up to 10 for cocktails and dining in this space. The Monroe Room seats up to 30 for a banquet and 60 for a cocktail style function whilst The Private Dining Room (Accessed by secret doorways) seating 12 guests for the ultimate exclusive group dining experience.