Beloved Richmond gastropub The Kingston reopened last week after a major renovation.
A $1.5 million renovation to the 168-year-old pub began in May 2021, stripping the venue back to its foundations. Upgrades were made to the public bar and parlour, removing walls to maintain a more spacious feel and fitting the venue with timber panelling and soft furnishings. The public bar includes cosy nooks, comfortable booth seating and high tabletops as well as a fresh deck that overlooks the newly landscaped beer garden designed by Jim Fogarty.
“It has been a dream come true reopening the doors to The Kingston. We’ve received great feedback from both new and familiar faces that have stepped into the venue thus far. Whilst the venue has undergone a total revamp, our locals are pleased to see we have stayed true to the heritage of the pub,” stated owner Jon De Fraga.
The venue’s newest addition is restaurant Marble & Pearl, featuring a g gas fireplace, leather booths, marble tabletops and floor-to-ceiling windows running the length of the dining room. The brand-new kitchen includes a charcoal Parrilla grill and dry aging viewing cabinet with guests able to see into the kitchen, the grill and the display of charcuterie and aged joints of meat all from the comfort of the dining room.
Yallambar Bantawa has been appointed head chef of Marble & Pearl, and has focused on Australian premium beef and seafood cooked over flames on the Parrilla charcoal grill. Banatawa spent time in South America working alongside Carlos Lopez learning the techniques of cooking with fire.
The decadent menu includes classic dishes such as the Beef Wellington with Premium Eye Fillet, Prosciutto and Truffle Mushroom Duxelle and the fresh whole Flounder, pan fried in butter, parsley and olive oil. Catering for all dietary requirements, The Kingston also has a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including the Vegan Ceviche with Tiger’s Milk, Chargrilled King Brown Mushrooms, Silken Tofu, Zucchini & Red Chili. A caviar cart will also roam the Marble & Pearl dining room, working to heighten the premium dining experience on offer.
“We wanted to bring a unique dining experience to Richmond, where exceptional food and wine meets a classic level of service, in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere,” said Jon De Fraga.
“Whilst the locals are the heart and soul of The Kingston, we’re excited to attract and welcome a fresh new customer base through our doors to experience Marble & Pearl.”
The renovation of The Kingston follows on from the major overhaul of Public House Richmond – another pub in the De Fraga Group stable – twelve months ago.