The Esplanade Hotel in Queenscliff officially has reopened its doors, marking a new chapter for the historic coastal pub first established in 1879. Following an extensive renovation, the venue has reclaimed its original name and embraced a modernised design tailored to the Bellarine community.
“We are so excited to have re-opened the doors of this beautiful pub,” said venue manager Mitch Kovacic, who has overseen operations for the past three years. “Our local legend has gotten a new lease on life, and we know our locals will love it – the buzz in the area has been awesome in the lead up to today!”
The refreshed interiors balance heritage charm with coastal character, featuring timber finishes and ocean-inspired hues of blue and green.
The Sports Bar caters to die-hard fans with TV-lined walls, a pool table, high-top tables, an open fireplace and a dedicated bar. The revamped beer garden offers a family-friendly retreat with native landscaping, large outdoor screens, picnic seating and an expanded kids’ play area.
The kitchen delivers a menu designed with the coast in mind, combining seasonal produce with classic pub favourites. Highlights include scallops with finger lime hollandaise, harissa lamb skewers with smoky eggplant and native dukkha, alongside traditional plates such as burgers, beer battered Victorian rockling and hearty pork chops.
To celebrate its return, The Esplanade Hotel will host a Locals Weekend from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 October with free first drinks, live music, children’s entertainment, raffles and giveaways.
The venue will also roll out weekly specials including Locals Night on Mondays, Steak Night on Tuesdays, Parma and Trivia Wednesdays, Cocktail Happy Hour Thursdays, and live music across weekends. Sundays are reserved for families with free kids’ entertainment.
The Esplanade Hotel Queenscliff is at 2 Gellibrand St, Queenscliff. Visit esplanadequeenscliff.com.au
