Australian Venue Co (AVC) has reopened The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff in time for summer after an extensive renovation shaped by the local community.
First established in 1879, The Esplanade Hotel has long been a landmark in Queenscliff, most recently operating as Queenscliff Brewhouse. As part of its redevelopment, AVC worked hand-in-hand with the community to shape the return of their local. While the plan was initially to reopen as The Bellarine Hotel, feedback from locals saw the group embrace the pub’s historic identity and return back to its rightful name, The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff.
Venue manager Mitch Kovacic, who has been running the pub for the last three years, says: ”We are so excited to have re-opened the doors of this beautiful pub. Our local legend has gotten a new lease on life, and we know our locals will love it – the buzz in the area has been awesome in the lead up to today.”
While the name is steeped in history, AVC has ushered the pub into a new era with true coastal character, from the timber finishes to hues of blue and green throughout.
The revamped sports bar features walls lined in TV screens, a pool table, casual high-top tables and lighting all designed for an enhanced viewing experience, in addition to an open fireplace and dedicated bar. Outside, the beer garden also features large TVs for live sports, in addition to picnic-style tables and umbrellas and an expanded childrens’ play area.
A new seasonal menu has been introduced, paying homage to the pub’s coastal location with fresh dishes like half scallops and beer-battered Victorian rockling and chips. The menu also features pub classics and shareable dishes, such as harissa lamb skewers, burgers, Australian pork chop and more.
The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff will host a Locals Weekend from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October to celebrate its reopening, including free drinks, live music, kids’ entertainment and more.
Check out more of the revamp below:
