The next time you’re sipping a drink and diving into a chow at your local restaurant, take a good look around, as chances are an ancestor sat there for nearly a century before you.
Camera IconLia Tapper, her daughter Stella (4), and Hugo, the dog. Credit: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian
Perth is home to a much-loved collection of old hotel pubs, some of which have been around for over 170 years.
While great-grandfather Bob may not have been on his way to a special pint and parmi, many of these original locations have been lovingly restored over the decades, whether signage, recycling materials, or continuing to pour the wine to the top. The glass is at no extra cost.
The last old lady to get a multi-million dollar ($2.3 million, in fact) makeover is the Vic Park Hotel, a local favorite since it opened in 1927.
Joe Baily, WA manager of Australian Venue Co (which also owns the Guildford Hotel, Sweetwater Rooftop Bar, and The Aviary, among others), reveals that the venue has doubled in size.
“By removing the old pool hall and bottle shop, we were able to create an open and airy beer garden instead,” he says.
“The Park (the beer garden) includes a large garden bar with 30 beer taps, a party room perfect for 50 guests, a children’s play area, several screens to watch the big games, and plenty of places to sit back and enjoy a wine in the sun.”
He says the group had the vision to expand since purchasing the location in 2019 to increase the appeal of the already popular Victoria Park cafe and restaurant strip and, more specifically, cater to the growing number of families in the area. Area.
Camera icon Gia (2) and Stella (4) in the playground of the Victoria Park Hotel. Credit: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian Camera Icon Victoria Park Hotel. Credit: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian
Dated by Donnelly Design, Baily will reveal upon reopening on Saturday, May 14, that the venue will focus on live entertainment and family-friendly activations.
An updated menu from Chef Andre Nunes features a mix of quality pub classics with a twist, such as WA grilled tiger prawns with chimichurri, a classic parmi with mustard salad and chips, or a shrimp and lobster roll. There is a wine list with a WA focus, many beers on tap, and an alcohol-free menu.
It has been exciting for Baily in recent years to see the growing number of typical WA pubs and hotels being brought back to life.
“We are very pleased with all the other renovations that are happening around Perth as it will only encourage visitors to Perth more and also promote creativity in the industry,” he says.
Discover more of Perth’s oldest pubs that have also received an impressive makeover.
Guildford Hotel
Camera IconThe Guildford Hotel.. Credit: delivered/delivered
This iconic landmark rose from the ashes in 2016 after standing still for eight years following a suspicious fire.
After a two-year refurbishment, one of Perth’s oldest pubs has been reborn, paying tribute to its long history with charred beams, recycled signage, original fireplaces, and window frames.
Many have since traveled to Guildford to enjoy the restoration, the new courtyard, and the tasty cheeseburger spring rolls.
the Elford
Camera iconThe Elford Hotel. Credit: Daniel Wilkins/The West Australian
When Mt Lawley institution, The Flying Scotsman, announced closing, many people wondered where to get their beer pitchers and cheap and cheerful pizzas.
Fortunately, the dingy digs were reimagined as The Elford after a $4 million renovation and reopening in August 2021.
It is now an airy, stylish space with a fresh and seasonal menu and a great drinks menu of unique craft beers and classic cocktails.
The Royal Hotel
Camera Iconfleur at The Royal Hotel. Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian
You’d be forgiven for forgetting this popular CBD pub that only reopened in 2019 as it has quickly become entrenched in the city’s fabric.
After a $13 million renovation, the landmark building that originally opened in 1882 as a saloon bar and hotel was transformed into a multi-location space with several bars, karaoke rooms, and Willi’s and Fleur restaurants.
The Leederville Hotel
Camera iconThe Leederville Hotel district. Credit: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian
There have been many iterations of this popular nightclub – you may even have danced in one of the cages after a few drinks – but the newest might just be the best.
The multi-million dollar redevelopment has given the massive space a brand new look, adding three new areas to the hotel, a servo restaurant, and a bar.
The cages may be gone, but it still promises a good night if you’re out late.
Cottesloe Beach Hotel
Camera IconCottesloe Beach Hotel Credit: Instagram
If you remember spending Sunday afternoons on the hillside at the back of this mega makeover venue, it’s time to invest in a good skincare regimen.
Since its opening in 1905, it has undergone several renovations over the decades. Still, it’s 2013 makeover to swap out sticky floors and Astroturf and introduce the stylish Beach Club was arguably the most memorable.
Whether you want to watch the sunset on the front porch with a cold beer or relive your early 20s with a Sunday sesh at the back, there’s a space for everyone.
