Melbourne’s heritage-listed Angel of Malvern has reopened following a massive $450 million development.
Luxury developer Kokoda Property purchased the hotel, then known as Angel Tavern, in 2017. They then ran the pub to get to know the locals and what they wanted, before closing in 2023.
The result is a redesigned three-level ‘Malvern Collective precinct’ that caters to its locals for everything from casual get-togethers to milestone celebrations and is conveniently situated steps away from Malvern train station.
Run by Refinery Group, the 1,000-capacity precinct will offer three distinct entertainment options. The ground floor is home to the public bar, while the second level will boast a wine bar and casual Mediterranean-inspired eatery.
The upper floor will evoke a cozy, late-night speakeasy vibe, blending crafted cocktails with adaptable event spaces designed for dynamic gatherings.
Chris McCue, founder and director of architecture firm Studio McCue, said the precinct’s design showcases a blend of history with contemporary design, such as its retention of exposed brick and floor tiles, mixing with bespoke details.
“By carefully balancing original textures with modern materials, we’ve created a space that honours the venue’s history while offering a fresh, dynamic experience,” said McCue.
“The design ensures a seamless connection between the venue’s different levels, combining functionality with a visually rich atmosphere that feels both authentic and welcoming.”
The venue was built in 1856, known as the Gardiner Hotel, and served as a rest stop on a stock route. The 1920s saw it transformed into the Railway Hotel, and later the name was changed to Angel Tavern.
Mark Stevens, founder and director of both Kokoda Property Group and Refinery Group said the latter was created to extend the same ethos and design rigour of Kokoda’s residential developments into the hospitality industry, and the Angel of Malvern is the first expression of this.
“We’re not interested in creating a one-dimensional pub,” he said.
“Each level has its own identity and energy, but together they form a cohesive experience grounded in quality and generosity. For us, great hospitality isn’t just about what’s served, it’s about how a place makes people feel.”
Renowned chef Justin North of Concept Hospitality, formerly of Sydney’s Hotel Centennial and Mister Percy, will use his thirty-five years of experience in a ‘produce-led, technique-driven approach’ across all three levels.
“Whether it’s a reimagined take on classic pub favourites on the ground floor, a Mediterranean-inspired experience on level one, or a late-night escape with a speakeasy vibe with unexpected bar snacks above, across the venue, the ambition is simple; to create food and drink that feels generous, confident and worth returning for,” North enthused.
The Angel of Malvern will be opening in stages over April and June this year and will be the first of over ten hospitality brands across Brisbane and Melbourne for Refinery Group, including St Kilda’s The Saint, which is also due to open this year.
