It’s been almost six months since we completed our upgrade of Verity and Odgers Lanes in the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings, and local business owner Ravi Sharma says it made his new outdoor bar and dining experience possible.
Mr Sharma (pictured above) – owner of Reload Bar & Games, Token Arcade & Kitchen and 1UP – has installed a laneway bar, tables and chairs, and giant retro games like giant Jenga, cornhole and ‘FutPool’.
He says the laneway renovation 'kickstarted' his goal of creating a fun and unique outdoor dining space in the City Centre.
"The upgrade has given us the confidence to invest time, energy and resources into making the laneway a customer facing space," Mr Sharma said.
"It's no longer just a 'back area', it's a frontage that people are attracted to and enjoy spending time in.
"Even though Verity Lane is in the heart of the city, it's peaceful – there's nothing like sitting in the shade of the heritage-listed trees on a sunny day and enjoying some food or drinks."
Verity and Odgers Lanes re-opened in June this year following significant renovations above and below the ground.
These included new stormwater infrastructure, decorative lighting, new asphalt paving and landscaping.
The works are part of the broader revitalisation of the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings to support more day and night-time opportunities for businesses to trade in the lanes, host events, and for the community to enjoy over the coming decades.
Sideway owner Tim Brown hosted a laneway event earlier in 2023 and previously highlighted how the upgrades have resulted in versatile new event and dining spaces.
“It’s a fantastic space that accommodates just what we’re after," Mr Brown said. "The upgrade has brought a new energy to the laneway and made it more accessible for people to be outside and enjoy.
“We’re looking forward to holding more events and bringing people back to the area."
Image: a live music event run by Sideway earlier in 2023.
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