For loyal patrons of Flemington's popular Irish pub The Quiet Man, it was a tough blow when it shut down back in March (and on St Patrick's Day, no less *sniffle*). But fortunately, endings are often new beginnings in disguise.
The historic Melbourne venue – long revered for its legendary Irish craic and community soul – has been reborn as Auntie Annie's Hotel after extensive refurbishments and a thoughtful rebrand.
Zengal Hospitality Group, the team who took over the venue, are known for running St Kilda's Jimmy O'Neill's Irish Bar and St Patrick's Festival, as well as the cocktail bar Naughty Nancy's in Prahran.
Co-founders James Gallagher and Zenita O'Neill have a long personal connection with The Quiet Man, with Gallagher having worked in the pub as a chef and O'Neill drawing in punters as a musical act with her band Zeon.
“Since our early days in Melbourne, this venue has always held a special place for both Zenita and myself,” shared Gallagher. “It's where we met and where we began dreaming about our own ventures. This venue represents so much of our journey, and as we breathe new life into it, we aim to bring back the warmth and great customer service that people remember fondly. The food is at the forefront, as it always was, as well as good live music.”
So yes, you can still warm up with a traditional Irish beef and Guinness stew, only now the menu has been expanded to include contemporary Australian favourites like delicious parmas, steaks and burgers. It's also home to Australia’s first doubled-barrelled Guinness tap – and yes, that means two pints can be poured at once.
And the new name? It pays homage to an old character from the pub's rich and storied past. ‘Annie’ was a cherished housekeeper who looked after the rooms upstairs where visiting jockeys and racegoers would stay when in town for the horse races. The spirit of her warm and welcoming presence hasn't just been tied into the pub's name; it's also been a key guiding light in the pub's renovations.
The building has been infused with a much-needed glow-up, with subtle design touches pointing to the pub's connection to the area's racing heritage and the original woodwork brought back to life. Several contemporary elements have been added to modernise the venue for a more comfortable layout, and visitors returning to the iconic venue will be met with a grand new entrance and gorgeously restored staircase.
“I want Auntie Annie’s to be a meeting place for all and a home away from home for the Irish living in Melbourne,” said Gallagher. “I’ve lived in this area for the last 15 or so years so I know what the area needs.”
We'll see you on Sunday for a roast.
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