MELBOURNE | Despite a history that dates back to the tabernae of the Roman Empire, pubs that tick all of the right boxes aren’t an easy thing to create. Fitzroy’s newest pub, Pendant Public Bar, has found the right formula, and in the few short months that it’s been open, has firmly established itself as a local’s favourite.
Housed in the long, narrow space that was previously home to The Rum Diary Bar, the basic layout remains the same – exposed brick walls, a long bar with stools on one side, and booths on the other. It’s been given a “pubbish” makeover, with lots of dark timber, more retro-style pendant lighting and trinkets, and on-theme framed artwork. It feels like a pub that’s been here a while.
The duo behind Pendant, Belinda Linton and Luke Kelly, bring some serious pedigree to the table. Between the two, they’ve worked at spots like Mr. West, The Everleigh, Black Pearl, and Apollo Inn. The quality of the sharp cocktail list of two house cocktails, and four seasonal creations, reflects this experience. The house Old Fashioned, with Francois Voyer Cognac, Wild Turkey Rye, Cask-Strength Curacao, and bitters, is a winner.
Joining the cocktails is a top notch selection of interesting but accessibly Aussie and Old World wines by the glass and bottle, and a four tap beer list of crowd pleasing brews from local, independent breweries, and Guinness. At $10 a pint during happy hour, the latter is one of the best value Guinness in town. A quality spirit selection, with a single malt whisky lean, round things off. If alcohol isn’t your thing, there’s also a tidy little non-alcoholic selection, including mocktails.
There’s no kitchen on site. Food options consist of either Nobby’s nuts or Samboy Atomic Tomato crisps.
If you have a dog, you’ll be happy to know that Pendant is dog friendly, both out the front and inside.
Pendant Public Bar
334 Brunswick Street
Fitzroy
Victoria 3065
Australia
Telephone: n/a
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Thu – Mon: 4:00pm to 12:00am