Two dining areas provide an a la carte menu, counter meals and a degustation experience in the formal dining room, Moon Under Water. It’s a delightfully refined yet relaxed atmosphere that reflects the area’s sophisticated but far-from-dicky attitude towards good food. In fact a word, I just invented was born here. Flavausea (noun): the feeling of complete and utter contentment coupled with the slight sickness of eating way too much; you probably should’ve stopped ten bites ago but you didn’t because it was too delicious, e.g. “That roast pork shoulder has put me in a state of flavausea.” Good times. Historically, the hotel served as an important meeting place for Aboriginal social and political gatherings from the ‘40s until the ‘80s, and the contemporary curators of the space are Andrew McConnell, Josh Murphy and Anthony Hammond. All three possess formidable restaurant experience: McConnell is also co-owner of Cutler & Co., Cumulus Inc. Supernormal and the newly opened Luxembourg; Murphy came to Builder’s after being head chef at Cumulus Inc.; and Hammond was co-owner of The Commercial Club Hotel. But those who wouldn’t describe themselves as ‘foodies’ needn’t feel intimidated by these impressive gastronomic résumés – Builder’s Arms Hotel is undeniably down-to-earth with that signature McConnell understated elegance. It’s also a great place to take your folks for weekend brunch without looking like a pretentious arsehole: they’ll be impressed by your trendiness but won’t need to ask a million questions about the menu or be confused by what’s on their plate. This is classic cool without pretention: think house made yoghurt with fresh fruit and bacon and egg toasted sandwiches, and what brunch would be complete without a Builder’s Bloody Mary? Upstairs is all about events, with the Bowery Room and Private Dining Room available for private parties, the space is supremely versatile and the décor is gorgeous. For functions ranging from seated lunches and dinners to cocktail-style events, you can trust McConnell and Murphy to create menus with dishes highlighting the very best seasonal produce. Builder’s Arms is the place for multiple weekly visits. Just try and stop us.
EDITOR’S PICK
The Roast Western plains pork shoulder: Best. Ever. Crackling. Served with piquant apple sauce, shaved fennel and lemon. There’s enough food here for at least two (very) hungry people.
