Skinny Dog Hotel has always been a favourite for Kew locals, but this summer ushers in a new and exciting era for the 150-year-old neighbourhood watering hole. A lush new upstairs bar and bistro has opened on the rooftop, Skinny Dog Upstairs, where you can channel your inner California cool amidst the greenery over freshly shucked oysters with prosecco foam, Spritz cocktails and share plates.
“Kew Junction is thriving, and we're thrilled to be part of it as we head into summer. Our new Skinny Dog Upstairs brings exciting cocktail choices, rotating beer specials, a diverse sharing style menu and live entertainment. Locals have already given it a warm reception, and we can't wait to welcome visitors from across Melbourne”, says Skinny Dog owner and publican Craig Barnett.
There's capacity for 400 people in the brand new area, with a bar featuring 44 beer taps, an extensive wine list, and plenty of piping hot 450-gram parmas. But if you'd rather dine on something a bit more special, you'll be well looked after. The new Upstairs menu features elevated bites like poached asparagus with witlof, poachef egg and parmesan cream, kingfish crudo with miso pickled daikon and fish skin crackling, and fried sesame and garlic chips with fermented chilli.
The Skinny Dog classics still remain, including daily housemade pasta specials, steak and pan-fried barramundi, and the downstairs space is as relaxed and charming as ever. Stop in to catch a game on the wide screens over a pint, or venture upstairs to see the changes.
A rotating program of DJs will keep the party going all throughout the weekends, while comedy shows and pub trivia make great drawcards on the weekdays. For more information, check out the website.
