The team behind South Yarra's Gilson are opening a new late-night grill and bar in Chapel Street this year.
James McBride and Marc Gurman have spent years perfecting the Melbourne drinking and dining experience at their Domain Road spot, the Gilson. Now they’re channelling that expertise into The Frog Club, slated to open in August 2026 in the former Morris Jones site on Chapel Street.
Expect New York City grill vibes with burgers, dry-aged steaks and classic cocktails, all backed by a serious vinyl collection that’ll keep the music flowing late into the night. It’s the kind of spot where good food meets good tunes, designed for those who want their night to stretch beyond dinner.
The Frog Club – Chapel Street
- Opening August 2026
- Chapel Street, Windsor
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McBride and Gurman know their way around Melbourne’s hospitality scene. The Gilson operates as a cafe by day and restaurant by night, proving the duo understands how to make a space work around the clock. That same adaptability looks set to carry over to The Frog Club, where the focus shifts to late-night energy and grill-focused dining.
Chapel Street’s been hungry for a venue like this; somewhere that nails both the food and the atmosphere without taking itself too seriously. With its NYC-inspired menu and commitment to vinyl over playlists, The Frog Club is positioning itself as more than just another restaurant opening.
Music will play a central role in the venue’s identity, with curated vinyl selections creating the soundtrack rather than algorithm-driven streaming. It’s a deliberate choice that speaks to the kind of experience McBride and Gurman want to create; considered, tactile and built on proper craft.
Windsor’s dining scene continues to evolve, and The Frog Club adds another layer to the neighbourhood’s late-night offerings. Between the grill menu, cocktail program and music-forward approach, it’s shaping up to be the kind of spot that fills a specific gap in Melbourne’s hospitality landscape.
For more information, head here.
