THE STORY
BUILDING THE BEAR
Taking over the old Stonefish restaurant was the first step in bringing The Blind Bear to life. After gutting the space, Ben Lewis (engineer, owner, operator, bartender, brewery, chef, security guard, head of customer relations, and handyman) set out to build his vision of a classic speakeasy smack-bang in the middle of beachside Cronulla. The goal was simple: give locals a taste of the big smoke, just around the corner and at Shire prices.
The idea was to create a laid-back, communal bar inspired by American dives blasting swap rock, with plenty of spots to tuck away in small groups and a simple, easy-to-navigate layout. In, out, bar, kitchen, bathroom. Since opening, The Blind Bear has become a Cronulla staple — the kind of place where you can start the night, end the night, or just kick back with the locals after a long day.
OVER 10 YEARS AND
STILL KICKIN'
Today, The Blind Bear continues to evolve while staying true to the spirit it was built on. The bar is still dimly lit and full of character, with craft beers from Slim Pickin’s Brewery House, a growing whiskey collection, and a menu that mixes comfort food with fresh specials.
IN MEMORY OF PAUL
Paul was more than a co-owner, he was part of the heart and history of The Blind Bear. His warmth, generosity, and belief in people helped shape the bar into what it is today. We continue to raise our glasses in his memory. His legacy lives on in the laughter, the stories, and the community that fills these walls.