South Melbourne is having a resurgence. In the past two months, Kirbie, Cheri and Moon Mart have all opened in the suburb. Next, publican Scott Connolly (The Orrong, Healesville Hotel) will re-open The George Hotel, a corner pub with more than 150 years of history that’s been closed for over a year.

Connolly signed the lease in October and tells Broadsheet the team has been “working feverishly” since to open in January next year. This iteration of The George will have a “retro” fit-out by interior designer Anouska Milstein of Studio A Mi (who also designed the 1970’s-inspired Morning Star Hotel in Williamstown), that draws influence from Australia in the 1950s and 1960s.

Head chef Steve Svensen (Moby, Lenny), who hasn’t worked in pubs since early in his career, has designed a menu of classics available across the front bar and dining room.

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Connolly has an affinity for pubs, which is perhaps why he understands what it takes to run a successful one. “What we’re really conscious of is focusing on community,” Connolly says. “We’re just a small link in the chain. We’re the current custodians of a venue that’s had a long history. We’ll try to be part of the community, rather than try and get in there and make the community bend to us.”

When The George opens, the team will, “do what we do – offer an elevated corner pub,” says Connolly.

The George at 139 Cecil Street, South Melbourne is expected to reopen in January 2025

@george_sthmelb