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Since its creation in 1856, one of Malvern's oldest pubs has been through several interesting iterations. It began as the Gardiner Hotel, a key stopover for Gippsland-bound travellers and home to Victoria's first bowling green in 1862. In the late 20th century, it was Nicabela's, a raucous nightclub popular with Melbourne's in-crowd. And more recently, it was the Angel Tavern, which has sat unoccupied for the last few years.
But now, the historic landmark on the corner of Glenferrie and Dandenong Roads is set to enter its next era. A major restoration has metamorphosed the dormant building into a stylish three-level drinking and dining destination, newly christened the Angel of Malvern.
The project has been spearheaded by luxury developer Kokoda Property's new hospitality offshoot, Refinery Group – a natural next step after Kokoda purchased the property in 2017 as part of its $450-million Malvern Collective development.
So what can visitors, both new and returning, expect? Refinery Group's founder and managing director Mark Stevens hopes it will feel like a true locals' local.
“The Angel has always been part of the fabric of Malvern,” said Stevens. “This next chapter is about restoring that role, creating a place people return to regularly, not just for occasions, but as part of everyday life, bringing a fresh take and new life to neighbourhood hospitality.”
Courtesy of beautifully designed interiors from Studio McCue, the ground-floor public bar is set to function as a classier-than-average watering hole for produce-driven pub fare and quality drinks. Think European wines, an easy-drinking mix of beers across the taps (featuring the pub's signature Angel Lager made in collaboration with Hawkers), and a cocktail list that keeps things interesting – from the grapefruit and bergamot-infused Angel Negroni to the plummy sangiovese gin-based concoction Sweet Talk.
“We wanted the drinks at the Public Bar to reflect the personality of the space, approachable, lively, and full of character,” shared group operations manager, Liam Burns.
Though dishes from the kitchen are crowd-pleasingly familiar, guests can anticipate more elevated takes on their favourites. Refinery Group's executive chef Justin North brings experience from Michelin-starred venues, while head chef Josh Rudd (Her, HQ Group, Asado) has worked in the kitchen of some of Melbourne's most popular venues.
Highlights on the menu include rigatoni vodka pasta with rocket pesto and mozzarella; fish and chips with gribiche sauce and pickled onions; a classic Angus beef burger; and ginger sticky date pudding with whiskey caramel sauce and vanilla bean ice cream.
Upstairs, things are soon to get a little more interesting. Level one will welcome Flores and Bar Flores, a Mediterranean-leaning wine bar and eatery, while level two will house Lately, an intimate late-night cocktail and audio bar. These spaces are set to open later this month, by which time the Angel of Malvern's full refurbishment will be finally complete – just in time for the chilly Melbourne winter ahead. We're glad there's a log fire!
For more information on the Angel of Malvern or to make a booking, visit the website. Check it out at 641 Dandenong Road, Malvern.
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