Inside The Arkaba Hotel’s renovated Sportys Bar, with new outdoor space, wraparound screen
One of Adelaide’s best-known sports bars has finally reopened after a multimillion-dollar revamp. See the pics.
SA News
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The Arkaba Hotel’s Sportys Bar and Arena has relaunched after a six-month, multimillion-dollar renovation, boasting a fresh outdoor space, a wraparound 360-degree LED screen and enough TVs to watch 14 sports at once.
The completion of Sportys is the final stage in the hotel’s $10 million revamp – the beloved venue’s first major overhaul in 60 years.
The new outdoor area – which has only just opened – includes comfortable booth seating and a fireplace, plus entertainment features such as a shuffleboard, digital darts, and a pool table.
Inside the bar there’s an Australian-first, a 360-degree wraparound LED screen, known as The Funnel, which can show up to six events at once.
Floating above the main bar, the screen was custom-designed by leading digital screen technology company, Big Screen Video.
Arkaba Hotel manager Jordarn Karpowicz said the new-look bar would provide a sports-watching experience like no other.
“We’re back and we’re better than ever, but with the same love for live sport,” Mr Karpowicz said.
“With our brand new screens, we can play 14 different sports at one time which is something that really sets us apart now.”
The venue, which opened in 1964 and is now owned by Hurley Hotel Group, hosts around 300 gigs a year, and has long been a go-to destination for entertainment, accommodation and functions.
All-day dining is also available, with Steak Night every Monday and Schnitzel Night every Tuesday, plus Happy Hour (4pm-6pm) from Monday to Friday with $7 pints.
The Arkaba Hotel’s revamp has included a major refurbishment of their Top of the Ark bistro, function rooms, lounge, hotel reception and kitchen.
Last year, Hurley Hotel Group owner Jenny Hurley said the transformation would “bring new life to the hotel while also maintaining its unique architectural integrity and structures that are simply irreplaceable.”
“We’re so excited to be revitalising the Ark,” Ms Hurley said.
“There’s no doubt the Arkaba has been a pretty special place for many South Australians over the years.”
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