The Verdict
Situated on the corner of Gertrude Street and Gore Street, we can guarantee you will have noticed the throng of punters seated outside the Builders Arms Hotel on many a sunny afternoon. Step inside, and you’ll find a fantastic bistro-style restaurant, luxe dining area, and cute hidden beer garden, all headed up by Andrew McConnell of Supernormal, Cumulus Inc. and Cutler & Co fame.
One of the more low-key venues under the superstar chef’s name, the Builders Arms Hotel is all about relaxed vibes paired with incredibly good food—which is pretty much the holy grail when it comes to eating out, right? If it’s drool-worthy comfort food you’re in the mood for, the fish pie is guaranteed to hit the spot, and if you’re in the mood to share, the roast pork shoulder that comes loaded with apple sauce, crisp cabbage salad, lemon dressing, and loaded with crackling is the ultimate winter warmer.
If you are looking for a little more class, Ricky & Pinky is the latest eatery set within the Fitzroy pub, replacing the stunning Moon Under Water. Combining the fine dining and bistro portions of the Builders Arms is McConnell’s first pure Chinese restaurant, serving the most heavenly smoked duck with steamed buns. Although the menu isn't your usual encyclopaedia you find at most Chinese restaurants, the one-pager is made up of 30 dishes, divided into snacks, small dishes, dumplings, and rice and noodles.
So, is it a pub? Is it a bar-restaurant? Who cares. The only question you should be asking is, can I have another round of the whipped cod roe and an Elderflower Sour?
Image Credit: Griffin Simm
