The Kensi completes stunning $2M transformation
Neighbourhood favourite, the Kensington Hotel (The Kensi), has completed an extensive $2 million renovation, marking a significant investment in the much-loved eastern suburbs venue.
The refresh has seen a revitalised restaurant, a dedicated new wine bar, updated function spaces and a fully weatherproof alfresco area, creating a lighter, more open venue designed for long lunches, relaxed catchups, after-work rituals and celebrations that flow from afternoon into night.
The transformation was delivered with the support of local suppliers including Surround Interiors, Response Carpentry and Folland Panozzo Architects who designed the space to balance The Kensi’s familiar warmth with a more contemporary hospitality experience, blending the building’s existing jarrah timber with new oak finishes and natural light, all while retaining the original heritage character of the building.
Key features of the project was the addition of a lantern ceiling above the restaurant which floods the space with natural daylight, completely changing the dining experience, as well as the original heritage exterior stone wall which was uncovered during the refurbishment and retained as a striking backdrop behind the bar.
Hotel Manager, Chris Eitzen, said the renovation breathes new life into the iconic local property while preserving what has made the Kensi so popular with generations of locals.
“This renovation has been about elevating the guest experience while keeping the relaxed hospitality people know and love about the Kensi. We wanted to create a space that feels lighter, more welcoming and more versatile, whether guests are joining us for dinner, a glass of wine, a casual catchup or a special event,” Chris said.
Another new addition is the hotel’s brand-new Wine Bar, complete with three booths, offering a dedicated space for socialising, whether it be for an intimate catch up or larger group celebrations, providing a relaxed and warm atmosphere for people to settle in and enjoy their extensive wine list and cocktail menu.
Guests can also indulge in the Wine Bar’s exclusive menu, which offers several share plates, perfect for a group setting, like beef carpaccio with parmesan and fried capers, spiced cauliflower florets with chickpea cream and chilli oil, and prosciutto wrapped jalapeno peppers. Locals will also have the opportunity to try different South Australian wines, with the Wine Bar offering a rotating monthly special, featuring two glasses of wine and a paired shared plate for $40.
Chris added, “We want the Wine Bar to be somewhere people build into their week, whether that’s a glass of wine after work or settling in to catch up with friends on the weekend. We’ve put a lot of care into the wine list, focusing on outstanding South Australian producers and a menu that’s perfect for sharing.”
The Kensi’s function offering has also evolved, with the addition of the private Watson Room for intimate gatherings and business meetings, alongside refreshed larger function areas including the Regent Room and Kings Room, which now features booth seating.
Restaurant and Functions Manager, Emma Pisani, said the transformed function spaces give guests greater flexibility for both intimate and large-scale occasions.
“The new Watson Room gives us a beautiful private dining option, while the revitalised Regent and Kings Rooms offer flexible spaces for everything from corporate gatherings to milestone celebrations. It means the Kensi can now offer an even more considered experience for functions of all sizes,” Emma said.
The Kensi is open seven days a week and is located at 23 Regent St, Kensington.