The humble town of Healesville is becoming quite the drawcard for many a city slicker come Saturday mornings, and thanks to a hefty refurb that’s just taken place at the 100yo Healesville Hotel, there’s yet another reason to take off north-east out of the CBD and into the rolling, bucolic hills of the Yarra Ranges.
Leading the charge is Matt Vero—responsible for revitalising the likes of Marquis of Lorne, Mount Erica Hotel, and Union House—along with mate and fellow publican Scott Connolly (Moore St Tavern).
The duo have approached this refurb with a certain nuance, letting the heritage of the building shine while not overlooking the necessary restorations to bring this locale back into destination pub-territory.
The bistro dining room, public bar and beer garden have all been given far more than a fresh lick of paint, and that’s evident in the aesthetic as well as the menus. Chef Ella Stephens is heading up the kitchen, bringing an elevated Italian spin to classic pub grub: expect nduja sausage rolls to a chicken liver parfait with pickles to start, along with fresh-made pasta, a generous pork schnitzel, and the showstopping 400g Galiciana Vintage Beef Co. club steak to hero the table.
A produce-rich region, and top-notch produce at that, it only makes sense the Healesville Hotel leans on its local makers, suppliers and producers. From the protein to the plonk, expect the likes of Yarra Valley’s Fin Wines, Yūgen, Seville Hill on the shelves, in the fridges and in your glass.
Those indulging can also opt for one of the seven classic hotel rooms upstairs rather than making the trek back to the big smoke—prices range between a modest $230 – $250 per night.
Check out more of Victoria’s best pubs here.
Image credit: Pete Dillon