Cater Care Retail’s Pub Concept at Sydney T2 Recognised for Excellence
The Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Awards are back—and for the second year running, Cater Care Retail is proud to be recognised among the best in global travel hospitality. After last year’s finalist nod for Restaurant Design of the Year, we’ve returned in 2025 with a brand-new concept, a new category, and the same ongoing commitment to excellence.
This year, our Great Northern Brewing Co. bar at Sydney Domestic Airport’s T2 Virgin Pier has been shortlisted in the Airport Bar or Pub of the Year (>20M passengers) category. The nomination celebrates the venue’s distinctively Aussie aesthetic, premium beverage offerings, and the great experience it delivers to travellers chasing that perfect pre-flight pint.
A taste of the outdoors—indoors
Inspired by the rugged charm of the Australian outdoors, particularly the beautiful landscape of New South Wales, the venue channels the essence of Great Northern Brewing Co.—a brand known for crisp beers, laid-back vibes, and rustic, wide-open landscapes. With timber finishes, warm lighting, and a starry ceiling, the bar feels less like an airport and more like a relaxed campfire catch-up—just what we wanted, and what stressed travellers need to for a moment to unwind.
The layout is spacious and welcoming, featuring a mix of booths, benches, and shared tables designed for connection or quiet time—plus music tuned to just the right level so you can still hear your boarding call. Every detail, from the materials to the ambience, is purpose-built for comfort, calm, and a little escapism in transit.
A proper pub experience, not just a pretty face
Looks aside, this bar knows how to pour. Alongside Great Northern’s signature Super Crisp Lager and Original Lager, travellers can enjoy a tidy cocktail list, rotating craft options, and family-friendly non-alcoholic beverages.
Hungry? The menu serves up classic pub favourites with a modern twist—like gourmet burgers, crispy potato scallops, and grilled campfire skewers packed with seasonal veg and marinated protein. Every bite is designed to complement the drinks and complete the outback-style experience.
Community connection, sky high
This isn’t just a bar—it’s the result of a close-knit collaboration with Sydney Airport. Together, we set out to create a space that feels distinctly Australian—welcoming, relaxed, and full of character.
And it’s not just the judges who’ve noticed. Travellers regularly call it their favourite spot for a pre-flight drink, praising the warm service and easygoing vibe.
“Great spot to relax before your flight. Not sure it is just me, but that was the best beer I’ve had in a while.”—5 star patron review
Cheers to the team
At Cater Care Retail, we take pride in delivering fresh, high-quality food and beverage experiences that reflect Australia’s diversity, values, and creativity.
Being named a FAB Awards finalist for the second year in a row is more than a trophy moment—though of course we’re absolutely over the moon! It’s also a tribute to the passion, hard work, and creativity of our teams across the country, and we couldn’t thank them enough for their dedication and effort.
So, it doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent flyer with a seasoned palate, we invite you to grab a seat at the bar, raise a glass, and taste the best of Australia with us.
