Pub giant Australian Leisure & Hospitality (ALH) has revamped two of its east coast pubs to better cater to a wider millennial crowd.
Cherry Hill Hotel, located in Victoria’s Doncaster East, received a $1.7 million revamp. This included a timeless yet modern design by BSPN Architects, with views of the surrounding Warrandyte hills, which lent inspiration for some of the finishing touches.
The hotel now boasts a combined bistro and sports bar, with its gaming room moving into the former sports bar space.
Executive chef Jayson Aguilar, who hails from the Philippines and comes with over a decade of experience, has expertly balanced comfort food with more refined flavours.
“Cherry Hill Hotel is about creating a space where the community can connect, celebrate, and relax,” says Venue Manager Alexis Melissa.
“The transformation is a reflection of our dedication to providing an elevated experience, while still staying true to our local roots.”
On Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, The Pub Mooloolaba has also received a transformation, to the tune of $2.3 million.
Architects Cayas & Ward and builders McCormick transformed the hotel, combining its bistro and sports bar while improving sports viewing, and the pub now boasts a “relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere”.
The aim was to extend The Pub’s interest to more than just its original focus on sports, with a new, wider appeal to locals and visitors alike.
A new menu has been created by local Sunshine Coast chef Zachary Pavitt, focusing on local seafood dishes as well as classic pub fare, matching the hotel’s relaxed coastal feel.
Venue manager Brad Blennerhassett says the changes reflect the current way people socialise, and they want the pub to feel like it’s a place for everyone.
“The Pub Mooloolaba has always been a cornerstone of this community, and now we’re proud to bring a fresh perspective to what a local pub can be.
“This isn’t just a place to watch sports anymore, it’s a vibrant space to eat, drink, and connect,” Blennerhasset said.
ALH employs more than 15K staff in over 350 licensed venues across Australia. It offers that while its core business is pub operations, it will also “acquire, redevelop and refurbish venues to optimise our portfolio and offer state-of-the-art, comfortable and interesting places to visit”.
