By Annette Shailer
The Sovereign Hotel Group announced on Tuesday (Aug 11) that it has acquired Hawthorn’s iconic Beehive Hotel.
The hotel group, which also owns Transport in Melbourne’s Federation Square, plans to transform the establishment into a gastro pub under the expert guidance of award-winning Melbourne chef Michael Lambie, executive chef at Taxi.
Opening in October under the new name – Barkers Wine Bar and Bistro – the venue’s interior is set to be revitalised, while retaining the charm of the heritage-listed building.
Taxi Dining Room head chef for six years, Tony Twitchett, will be in charge of the kitchen ensuring the quality of food offered at the venue will be a core priority.
Sovereign Hotel Group executive chef, Michael Lambie, said food would be a major focus of the new venue.
“Diners are set to be presented with great pub-style food with the highest quality service, including premium steaks and wood-fired pizzas,” he said.
Sovereign Hotel Group, managing director, Mario Scerri, said the group had identified a gap in the market for a pub-style venue that delivered an outstanding quality of food.
“The Beehive’s transformation into Barkers is sure to revive a historic treasure and deliver a family favourite,” Scerri said.
This is the second acquisition by the Sovereign Hotel Group this year with the company taking on the historic Ball Court Hotel in Sunbury, Melbourne in March.