Spanton Hospitality was born during the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, when hospitality veteran Dave Spanton saw an opportunity to preserve one of Kings Cross' most iconic venues. In 2020, he transformed the historic Piccolo Bar into a neighbourhood Italian-style aperitivo bar, giving new life to a Sydney institution while honouring its rich heritage.

 

Two years later, another opportunity presented itself. In 2022, Dave and his wife Amy revitalised another local landmark, breathing new life into the former Café Hernandez, which today operates as Bar Hernandez—a European-inspired neighbourhood bar celebrating classic cocktails, vermouth, tapas and warm hospitality.

 

Before launching Spanton Hospitality, Dave and Amy spent more than 25 years at the forefront of Australia's bar industry as the founders of Spanton Media Group. Together they published 285 editions of Australian Bartender magazine, created Sydney Bar Week, and produced the Australian Bar Awards for more than two decades. In 2024, they sold the business to Yaffa Media, where its legacy continues today.

 

Decades immersed in the hospitality industry have given Dave and Amy a deep understanding of what makes a great venue. Their philosophy is simple: preserve the character of iconic spaces, serve exceptional drinks and food, and create welcoming neighbourhood bars where people genuinely enjoy spending time.