The Albion Hotel in Collingwood has lived several lives. It first opened on the corner of Smith Street and Perry Street in 1847 as a local watering hole, remaining as such for the next 120 years. It's since shapeshifted into the colourful Punter's Palace (a sports bar popular throughout the 90s); an event space by Blackheart and Sparrows; and now after extensive restorations led by the Bodriggy crew – a grand, true-blue pub.
We love a good pub reno here in Melbourne, and this one is no exception.The owners have channelled the good vibes of the venue's '70s heyday into the design, so you can expect all those fuzzy nostalgic feelings when you walk in. The kitchen has been expanded, while a stool-lined, green-tiled centrepiece bar tiled beckons an ice-cold brew. Wander upstairs to take in some sunshine, or explore the rest of the space, which boasts plush maroon booths for dining, warm lighting, stained glass windows and handsome dark wood panelling throughout.
Perhaps most interestingly (and a hot topic with the locals), the bar is slinging schooner-sized beers only. Bodriggy tap beers feature heavily, though a tasteful curation of other local breweries are on rotation. You can also order tap wines by the glass or carafe, take your pick from a fun mix of cocktails. How about a Purple Disco Machine with Jamaican rum, coconut, yam and guava? Or an Albion Spritz? The latter is served as a refreshing blend of natty wine, orange blossom, citrus and soda.
On the food front, Chef Johnny Dominguez (Bodriggy Brewing Co, Vue de Monde) brings his Mexican heritage to the table with a crowd-pleasing menu of Latin American-inspired eats. Think 12-hour beef brisket torta with spicy pickles onions, chimichurri and birria broth; grilled market fish with moqueca sauce and crispy jalapeno; and a churro ice cream sanga for dessert. There's plenty of sides and if you're feeling indecisive, you can do a generous 'Feed Me' menu at $75 a head.
"Time enjoyed is not time wasted" is the Albion's new motto, and we couldn't agree more – particularly when the beer masters at Bodriggy are involved. If you're hankering for a trip down memory lane, stop in for a froff next time you're in the area.
For more details, check out the website.
