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The Mornington Peninsula didn’t really need a makeover. If you ask us, it’s pretty damn perfect just as it is. But there’s a lot of work going on in this magical pocket of Vic, and it’s all sounding pretty impressive – from restaurant upgrades to new camping spots and hiking routes. Possibly the most exciting news to come out of the Peninsula this spring? One of the area’s most recognisable landmarks is getting a new lease on life, with a historic hilltop building set to reopen as a sprawling hospitality destination this summer.
Hollywood Inn, which was built in 1931 on the summit of Arthur’s Seat, is being transformed into a multi-venue precinct, bringing together a coffee kiosk, casual bistro, outdoor terrace, events space and, eventually, a fine dining restaurant. Sitting pretty at 300 metres above sea level, the site promises sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay. Pair that with a long lunch and a glass of vino and you’ve got us sold.
The project is being led by a hospitality team with some serious experience behind it. This includes Simon Tarlington – whose previous ventures include Paringa Estate and Jackalope Hotel – and Ben Cashmore, who has worked with Stokehouse, QT and Nick & Nora’s Melbourne. Owners Justin and Kirsten Abrahams are also part of the team bringing the historic building into its next chapter.
For a little context on the site, Hollywood Inn was originally designed by architect and developer Howard Lawson, who was drawn to Arthur’s Seat for its panoramic views. We get it. When it opened in 1931, the building operated as a dance hall, with its name inspired by Lawson’s love of the silver screen. It was later extended and refurbished in 1939, reopening as the Garden of the Moon. Now, the restoration aims to honour that history while giving the landmark a new purpose. Working alongside Melbourne design studio Studio Y and local artists, the team has created interiors that pay tribute to Lawson’s original vision.
The first venues to open will include Hollywood Inn Bistro, serving relaxed meals with a view, and The Terrace, an outdoor space seating up to 100 guests. The bistro menu will put a playful spin on familiar faves, with dishes including lasagne croquettes, a duck burger and good old-fashioned fish and chips. Guests can also expect a stacked drinks list featuring local and international options. The terrace will serve the bistro menu throughout the day, alongside Spritzes and beers, with live music planned for long afternoons and balmy evenings.
For an earlier start, The Kiosk will open for coffee, baked treats and takeaway brekkie bits, with a menu celebrating local producers including Teurong Farm and Morning Penni. Expect toasted sandwiches such as the Hollywood Inn Reuben, filled with Sher Wagyu brisket, kimchi, Swiss cheese and pickles, as well as a caponata and mozzarella melt. Yum. There will also be salads, local wine, craft brews and takeaway cheese and salumi plates for picnics around the grounds.
And for the fine-diners among us, a more ambitious dining experience is also on the way. Opening in summer 2027 (exact date still TBC), Marija will be a 56-seat fine dining restaurant led by Tarlington and named after his grandmother, whose traditional European cooking inspired his career. According to the team, the restaurant will offer a set menu showcasing Australian producers, seasonal local ingredients and regional seafood, brought together using classical European techniques.
Rounding out the precinct, the original Ballroom will host weddings, celebrations and corporate events for up to 100 seated guests, with smaller configurations also available.
Keen? Us too.