The Prahran Hotel has had quite the makeover. Calling in the bigger crowds since its recent reopening, this High Street pub has stepped it up a notch in the style stakes while still catering to its loyal locals. Art deco flair now blends into brew-house leisure, enabling the hotel to appeal to a wider demographic of ladies and gents who can pick and choose their place to pose or repose.
The Cocktail Bar
DJs play from 9pm Fridays and Saturdays and all day Sundays in the upstairs cocktail bar and dance room, with regular live music downstairs near the main bar. For something a little more intimate, try one of the private dining rooms (you'll feel like you're at a table in a private manor), the back bar with its own lounge and open fire, or one of the dining booths.
Private Dining Room
At the public bar, those keen for a cheap feed can get the traditional $15 specials on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, or check out the
full menu for something a little more swish. Like many pubs throughout the area,
The Prahran Hotel management has recognised the cut of its customers and managed to create a successful fusion in atmosphere, décor and entertainment which is also reflected in its food. The menu therefore walks the line between French-inspired gastronomy that's reasonably priced and tavern favourites that don't compromise quality.
The Back Bar
It's a tack that is being taken well in the inner South-East where patrons will turn up their noses at an over-pretentious (and over-priced) beef burger, but who can just as easily dismiss an eatery for over-cooking the scallops.
The Front Bar
On the other hand, if it's liquid interests you have in mind, you're not likely to be disappointed there either. The wine list is extensive, predominantly made up of offerings from the produce regions of Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and New Zealand such as Yarra Valley, McLaren Vale, Margaret River and Marlborough, with quite a few French and Italian vintages for good measure. The pub is also something of a cider specialist, with $5 pints from the tap on Sundays.
The Courtyard
All in all,
The Prahran Hotel is doing its thing well, and has re-established itself quickly and effectively in an area of the suburb that will likely see a lot of further development and competition in the near future.
