Melbourne’s stately Doutta Galla Hotel – aka The Doot – is back, under new Kickon custodians and sporting a new look serving up modern hospitality within treasured heritage.
Established in 1889, the three-storey Victorian hotel commands the intersection of Racecourse Rd and Eastwood St, close to Flemington Racecourse.
Over the passage of 136 years it has also been known as the Flemington Inn and Geebung Polo Club, but locals have always called it simply The Doot.
Toward the end of 2024 the pub was acquired by Craig Shearer’s Kickon Group, joined by new pub partner Ben Lougoon and a group of investors, including actor Travis Fimmel and former AFL stars Luke Hodge and Andrew Walker.
The Doot was promptly closed for major renovations. After nearly a year it will reopen ahead of Melbourne Cup week, with “the same soul and big plans” to continue as a hub for the Flemington community.
“The Doutta Galla has always been about more than beer and food – it’s about connection, celebration, and the energy of the community,” says Shearer.
Staying “true to its history” Kickon has confirmed the pub’s iconic red front doors will remain, however, the interior has changed considerably, replacing the former accommodation on levels one and two with new bars.
Guests will find The Doot offering a space divided, split between a bar and a restaurant serving elevated pub classics and an extensive steak menu. Dishes are rooted in seasonality and substance, promising “bold flavours, generous portions” alongside a bar atmosphere.
On the upper levels are a series of versatile function spaces designed in the style of a modern beer hall, to be both an extension of the downstairs bar and to host all manner of private events, from birthday parties to corporate.
A void within the two levels creates open space, allowing natural light and facilitating the blending of the ‘vibe’ between floors.
The upper levels are scheduled to come online in the months following re-opening.
Kickon already operates a broad portfolio across Victoria and Queensland, counting prized establishments such as The Terminus in North Fitzroy, The Continental in Sorrento and Riverland in Brisbane.
Now equipped with a 3am licence, a mainstay of Melbourne’s inner north will soon begin its next chapter, augmenting all the tradition of The Doot with late-night music and renewed energy.
“This relaunch isn’t just about reopening a pub – it’s about bringing a Melbourne icon back to life, with even bigger ambitions for the future,” adds Shearer.
