Dynamic hospitality group, PUBLIC will open its first Melbourne venue at the prominent corner location in Kew, ushering in a new era of collaborative hospitality in partnership with esteemed restaurateurs, Grossi Group with the launch of Clifton Hotel this August.
Built in 1868, PUBLIC will return the historic landmark hotel to its original name and transform it into a multi-venue establishment seating 250-plus patrons across five key internal and outdoor areas – creating a flow of intimate spaces and unique dining experiences. The establishment will also welcome Puttanesca, a restaurant and aperitivo bar laden with authentic lively Italian spirit, led by Guy Grossi. Former-Carlton Football Club 300-game star turned project manager, Marc Murphy, is overseeing the development, applying his local knowledge and commitment to enhancing Melbourne’s hospitality scene to Kew.
With a rapidly expanding portfolio of intimate and purposeful venues in Sydney, the first Melbourne project by PUBLIC will be another example of how it enlivens heritage and unlocks potential by offering the Kew neighbourhood something entirely unique.
The venue will embody Italian playfulness and flirtatious energy, creating a memorable experience for its guests. With a newly installed wood-fired pizza oven, and the menu influenced by Guy Grossi’s Italian heritage, diners can expect to find a selection of antipasti, Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, Mamma’s Lasagne and Puttanesca pizza plus more.
Grossi Group Chef and Restaurateur, Guy Grossi said, “Our philosophy when creating this menu was to incorporate familiar favourites you would find at the centre of an Italian family dinner table, taking quality, wholesome ingredients and treating them with respect. We wanted to create a place to bring together the local community to stop by on a Sunday for a family lunch, or a quick bite to eat during the week.
Uniting the best in hospitality, Clifton Hotel will be restored to present diverse neighbourhood-driven experiences at a venue with a well-worn history, transforming it into a pillar of community that can be enjoyed by all.
Clifton Hotel 99 High Street, Kew VIC 3101 (corner of Studley Park Road and High Street at Kew Junction)
For more information, visit cliftonhotel.com.au
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