The corner of Russell and Little Collins has come back to life. After a $12 million transformation, a historic CBD pub has reopened as the Hickens Hotel – a four-level playground of nostalgic charm, rooftop drinks, retro sport culture and hearty pub eats.
The venue was previously known as The Crafty Squire, operating under that name since 2015 until it closed in 2024. Before that, the venue had a long history and even earlier names. The new is in honour of Ebenezer “Abe” Hicken, a legendary 1870s boxer who once managed the site
Set to become a fast favourite for after-work drinks, game-day gatherings and all-out social sessions, Hickens Hotel delivers something for every type of punter.
Downstairs, the Hickens Front Bar is classic Melbourne — think easygoing beers and people-watching. Tucked alongside it is a national first: The Carlton Lounge, Australia’s only Carlton Draught bar, pouring tank-fresh beer with a side of 70s rumpus room energy, archival memorabilia and a pool table for good measure.
Upstairs, Level One brings the pub menu into nostalgic new territory. From Cheese & Vegemite Garlic Bread to Crab & Corn Croquette ‘Fish Fingers’, pub fare here is fun, familiar and just a little cheeky. Every dish is designed to pair perfectly with a cold beer or casual cocktail across the venue’s four levels.
Level Two is all action. Dubbed Abe’s Athletic Hall, it’s a full-tilt sports and entertainment hub with massive screens, arcade games, karaoke rooms, foosball, booths and a deep love of live sport.
And above it all, the brand-new rooftop delivers views, golden hour sips and a casual vibe made for city sunsets and Friday knockoffs.
Venue Manager Giuseppe Lacava says, “Hickens is now the spot to go to in the city! We’ve dialled in on what makes a pub great leaning into a nostalgic and playful personality.”
“The new look and vibe of the pub blends almost 160 years of history and pub culture with a modern offering. Think of it as an approachable social hub that’s versatile, no matter the occasion,” he said.
Launch weekend is set to be big – doors open from 10am Saturday 26 July with pre-game brekky beers, bacon and egg rolls and live entertainment for the Wallabies v Lions showdown at the MCG (7.45pm, live and loud).
Hickens Hotel is at 127 Russell Street, Melbourne. Website hickenshotel.com.au
