Robert Burns Hotel Returns to Its Pub Roots
Robert Burns Hotel is a local favourite pub in Collingwood, that is returning to its true pub roots. The World Loves Melbourne ws invited along to experience the new Rober Burns Hotel expression, both in terms of menu and vibe. We engaged with new owner Gerry Nass who has an impressive history in hospitality and we loved the new offerings and tone of Robert Burns Hotel. as soon as you walk into the pub you see the front section buzzing, something that used to be missing.
Gerry Nass is bringing is returning Robert Burns Hotel to its pub roots.
The Robert Burns Hotel is reclaiming its title as a landmark Collingwood pub with a talented new chef duo joining the crew. Celebrated Italian chef, Danny Russo from Russolini is collaborating with former Atlantic Group head-chef, David Maclean to reignite the menu. Think modern bistro meets Nonna’s kitchen. With Italian and broader Mediterranean influences, the pub menu is approachable and rewarding.
The menu is approachable with pub classics and something for everyone. A point of difference is that service is of the highest order with staff having spent time in some of Melbourne's most notable venues.
Top notch rotating beer list.
A series of generous specials on certain nights of the week is popular with locals. And speaking with Gerry the focus is certainly on winning over the locals. We also recommend Robert Burns Hotel as a destination pub to drive across town for to experience a classic over 150 year old pub with a modern expression.
Fish finger sandwich may become your new addiction.
Since it was established in 1861, the Robert Burns Hotel has seen various iterations with the most recent being a Spanish themed restaurant. New owner and proud publican, Gerry Nass is making a bold move to refresh expectations of how to enjoy a good time at a local pub. “We are pretty set on making the Robert Burns Hotel the best pub in Collingwood. We want it to be a place where everyone feels at home to enjoy good food and good times with friends and family,” said Mr Nass.
Revisit your childhood with a fish finger sandwich or enjoy a moment of Italian summer with a burrata, prosciutto and pickled persimmon dish. Burrata (above) was suitably creamy and refreshing, perfect even on a winter's night.
The Charred octopus with squid ink dressing was delightful served with fennel salad.
The Fish finger sandwich on soft white bread is playful and delicious, just dip it in the tartare sauce. Gerry says the dish began as something on the kids menu but so many adults were ordering it they placed it on the main menu. It's their home made take on fish fingers, crunchy exterior and tender inside using fresh fish.
Every Nonna would be proud to serve the pappardelle with lamb ragu and the costoletta, a parmesan crumbed veal cutlet with Italian slaw. We visited on the "Nonna Visits Robbie"night where a Duck lasagne featured (and looked amazing) although we tried other dishes on the menu.
Bar snacks and counter meals are perfect for those wanting a drink and a graze including the moorish house marinated olives, polenta chips and fried baby calamari. Crispy Chicken wings (above) with cider, tarragon, lemon are always a good idea, whether with a beer or a Shiraz.
Pub classics like Bobby’s chicken parma and Butler's steak do not disappoint.
Bobby's chicken parma with prosciutto, tomato, buffalo mozzarella, fries has to be one of the best parma's in Melbourne. Made in the Italian style it's authentic, rustic and plain delicious.
Butler's steak 250g hit the high notes with perfectly cooked medium rare steak featuring roast peppers and herb dressing.
Vegetarians and vegans are loving the variety of dishes featuring a delicious potato gnocchi, sage with (or without) stracciatella as well as a roasted cauliflower salad with burnt leeks, hazelnuts, rocket and pumpkin seeds. We were impressed with the Roasted cauliflower salad as a dish in its own right, a mountain of vegetable goodness.
Happy days at Robert Burns Hotel.
The mod bistro re-do has a relaxed at-home vibe with tartan infused into the décor as a nod to famous poet, Robert Burns’ Scottish heritage. With two large open fires, there’s no better place to warm up and get toasty this winter.
Enjoy ALL the drinks in the front bar with brass details or open-air beer garden. Fine wine is available for every palette or if you prefer a stiff drink, there is a solid cocktail and spirit list.
Deconstructed Tiramisu is a show stopper.
Not to mention the Panna Cotta with rhubarb.
An extensive selection of classic Aussie and craft is set to impress with 14 tap beers and ciders and more than 30 tinnies in both standard or longies. As soon as my eyes fixed on a Sailors Grave IPA I was quick to order; nuanced sexy beers such as this are a feature of Robert Burns Hotel.
A welcome digestive of Amaro Montenegro.
Quick bites, long lunches or solid sessions with cool tunes is what the Robert Burns Hotel is all about. Tunes are locked-in with local DJ’s every Thursday, Friday and Saturday - making ‘Robbie Burns’ the place to kick-start a good night out.
Located on the corner of Smith and Easey Streets, the Collingwood pub is open from 12pm till late seven days a week, bookings are welcome.
For more info and to book, visit www.robertburnshotel.com.au or visit Facebook or Instagram #RobbieBurns. Highly recommended.