Prahran’s hospitality scene is about to welcome a major revival, with the reopening of High St Hotel after a full transformation by hospitality duo Nic and Bianca Gordon, former owners of Blue Tongue Wine Bar, alongside Executive Chef Sebastian McQuarrie.
One of the suburb’s most recognisable corners has been reimagined as a community-first local, blending polished design with a warm, neighbourhood feel.Nic and Bianca have rebuilt the venue as a contemporary multi-space pub designed for locals, workers and weekend visitors alike.
“Our vision is to reimagine a once iconic venue into a vibrant and multi space destination, catering for all that work, live and play in our community – and beyond our dynamic postcode,” says Nic Gordon.
The aesthetic pairs British racing green with refined pub charm, described as Ralph Lauren meets Prahran. Guests can move between a lively public bar, an inviting dining room and a buzzing beer garden that doubles as one of the suburb’s strongest live sport destinations. The interiors also carry a personal touch, with Bianca’s mum helping shape the warm, family-led design.
Food sits at the heart of the relaunch, with Sebastian McQuarrie leading a menu that balances comfort and craft. Highlights include whole rotisserie chicken or porchetta with sides, crab and prawn toast with XO mayo, deep-fried beef and mozzarella lasagne bites, and eye fillet steak frites with bone marrow butter or red wine jus.
“Sebastian brings a stellar resume of culinary leadership across high-performing hospitality venues,” says Bianca Gordon. “His appointment signals a serious commitment to food quality, consistency, and an elevated yet approachable dining experience.”
High St Hotel is also positioning itself as Prahran’s new home of live sport, with a 3.5m x 2.5m superscreen, five additional screens and a relaxed beer garden atmosphere. Community remains central, with the venue launching a $10,000 annual grant for local sporting clubs.
High St Hotel is located at 282 High St, Prahran – website: highsthotel.com.au
