Our Story.

It all started with a little café by the water.

Bird & Bear began in 2011 on a small marina in Elizabeth Bay. As locals, founders Adam and Emma Marshall had long admired the character of the place and saw an opportunity to give it new life as a neighbourhood café.

What began with one small café has grown into much more than just a collection of venues.

Along the way, we’ve become part of the places we call home.

Our Approach.

Start with recognising what makes a place special.

While every Bird & Bear venue is different, the idea behind them remains much the same.

Restore and preserve places that support community and allow them to continue to create new stories.

Find the Character.

Understand the history, surroundings and qualities that make the place unique.

Listen to the Community.

Learn how people already use the place and what they value about it.

Bring New Energy.

Create hospitality, experiences and partnerships that give people more reasons to visit.

Let the Story Continue.

Preserve what deserves preserving while allowing the place to evolve for the next generation.

The people and places that shaped Bird & Bear.

From restoring waterfront cafés and working marinas to historic sailing clubs and neighbourhood pubs.

Along the way, we’ve met new communities, taken on new challenges and found new ways to bring people together.

Every place has left its mark on Bird & Bear, helping shape who we are and where we’re headed next.