Growing hospitality operator Julien Moussi has bought the renowned Micawber Tavern in Belgrave and plans to expand on its picturesque appeal through considered enhancement.
The Irish-themed Tavern has been serving locals and visitors to the Yarra Ranges region for more than a century, providing travellers drawn to the famous Puffing Billy railway and Kokoda Track ‘1000 Steps Walk’ a convenient rest stop.
Surrounded by plush vegetation, on a generous 6,618sqm block, the hotel’s outdoor areas include a beer garden overlooking Clematis Creek, while inside offers an inviting space replete with fireplace, for the cooler months.
Regularly hosting live music, it has earned a reputation as a gathering place for Belgrave.
Moussi is founder of Only Hospitality Group, and has repositioned a number of Melbourne pubs, including Beehive Hotel in Hawthorn and Hotel Collingwood. OHG also holds the Hobson Bay Hotel and former bathing house Pavilion Geelong.
The group has also picked up the retired South Yarra railway station, paying $3.8 million, and is in the process of converting it into a hotel.
Acknowledging the ‘rich history’ of Micawber Tavern, describing it as a “true landmark in Belgrave” Moussi paid $4.7 million for the business and freehold, which includes a residence.
“My team and I look forward to building upon the pub’s strong foundation, enhancing its offering and ensuring it remains a key destination in the area,” he says.
Committed to enhancing its legacy while preserving its place as a stalwart of the Belgrave community, select upgrades and changes are underway. A new menu is in the works, and trade has been increased to open every day, for lunch and dinner.
The picturesque beer garden is being further adorned with the addition of native plants, to blend with the surroundings, and plans have begun to add accommodation on the surplus land.
The off-market sale was managed by Paul Jones, MD of Jones Real Estate, who also brokered the sale of the railway station and believes Moussi’s arrival heralds a new chapter for the Tavern.
“Julien’s expertise in hospitality will ensure this iconic venue continues to thrive, creating more memorable experiences for the locals and visitors who love this pub,” offered Jones.
