aving seen numerous changes of hands in the last few years and following six months of renovation the revamped Prahran Hotel has started pouring. It’s the fifth pub on the books for the blokey consortium of Doug Maskiell, Tom Birch and brothers Andy and Matt Mullins (aka Sand Hill Road) – the team behind Richmond watering holes Holliava, The Post Office Bar and Pizza, The Richmond Club and The Bridge Hotel.

The Techne-designed refurbishment opened its doors on Monday April 18 to reveal a contemporary fit-out with an art deco edge. The large footprint has been cleverly divided into a series of small spaces each with its own distinct character – from the a man-style den with open fireplace downstairs to an upstairs bar that gives a 1930s twist to modern design.

In a bid to avoid the gastro pub tag, the boys are quick to highlight the modern boozer’s neighbourhood appeal, playing down the foodie notion in favour of an emphasis on a come-one-come-all attitude. No dress code, they say, no worries.

Of course that doesn’t mean the menu isn’t noteworthy; the kitchen, run by ex-Chez Bob head chef Eddie Leonard, takes an egalitarian approach, offering everything from classic parmas and burgers to French-skewed duck of the day, rabbit and vegetable terrines. The drinks list runs a similar gamut, with seven beers and two ciders on tap, around 75 international wine choices and a comprehensive cocktail list.

The Prahran Hotel
82 High Street, Prahran
(03) 9529 2168

Hours
Lunch and dinner seven days a week.

prahranhotel.com