The Dining Hall has a distinct mess hall-type feel, but it’s nonetheless laid-back, fun and atmospheric, with the Pub neighbouring serving up incredible burgers with house-made buns and pickles. The large space is refined, but definitely not stuffy, fitting in perfectly to its surroundings, it’s still a casual dining experience and with lovingly restored art deco fittings, the décor seamlessly mixes old with new, perfect for groups. There’s a real focus on what produce is available seasonally, so the menu is changing all the time, but at the same time it’s supremely reliable: you know you’re going to get quality every single time. This season’s menu aims to make the most of the abundance of fresh vegetables at their disposal, and they keep in strong, constant contact with their vegetable, meat and fish suppliers. They’ve recently teamed up with Victorian beef superstars, Hopkins River Beef for all their steaks and their pizza dough is made fresh daily with some amazing toppings. There’s the option for pleasant al fresco dining on the deck out back (what good Melbourne pub would be complete without a cracker beer garden?), and several banquet tables are available for larger groups. The team believe the best seats in the house are along the bar of the fiery open kitchen, and we’re inclined to agree with them. It creates a wonderfully lively ambience when you can watch your meal being prepared. Every Monday they serve up delicious whole roast chooks with tasty sides for $50 (serves two hungry or four moderately hungry people) and you can be sure there’ll always be a good band or acoustic artist to lull you into your food coma.
EDITOR’S PICK
The beef carpaccio is perfected with the contrasting texture of fried shallots, horseradish crème fraiche and samphire. Follow it up with the liquorice crème caramel: those not fond of aniseed will be (very) pleasantly surprised with how subtle the flavour is.
