Neighbour

When Botany announced it was closing, a coveted corner of Gasworks came up for grabs—at the epicentre of Newstead’s ebb and flow. To make it work requires an understanding of the inner-city suburb’s populace that can only be obtained by a local, which is exactly what we’re getting in Neighbour. 

Range Brewing are officially taking over the space, backed by eight years of cementing themselves as a much-loved brewpub on Byres Street. The new venue will mirror their neighbourhood bars Patio and Rays, while also dabbling as a dining room and third space where one visit will easily turn into a regular pitstop. 

“We can’t wait to be a part of this new wave that’s hitting Newstead right now,” said Matt McIver, who co-founded Range Brewing with Gerard Martin. “Settling in amongst the best neighbours we could ask for, including our very own brewery.” 

Neighbour will be their most polished venue to date, collaborating with interior design studio Soma and Sol known for their chic, smooth and minimalist aesthetic. Unlike the greens and lush plants that weaved through Botany, Neighbour will feature a rich and moody palette with retro materiality and a playful use of light. 

Naturally there’ll be Range Brewing’s award-winning beers on tap alongside a full food and cocktail offering. Patio and Rays are all about fresh pizzas and a more seasonal approach to pub dining so we’re expecting a similarly sessionable menu at Neighbour. 

“We know this neighbourhood," said McIver. "We know who lives here, how they move, and what's been missing. That's our superpower. Neighbour is our answer to it."

Neighbour is slated to open around August. More details to come.