Hotel Spencer

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Hotel Spencer.

A friendly pub in West Melbourne, Hotel Spencer delights locals with a range of pub-style dishes in their beautiful old-style dining room.

The menu has something for everyone - with classics such as slow-roasted cider pork belly with apple & coleslaw and specialities, like their South African Bobotie with house chutney & cauliflower rice.

The beverage list boasts a selection of wines, cocktails and craft beer. Hotel Spencer are also currently one of the only bars in Melbourne to have their craft beer on tap!

Crispy Peri-Peri chicken wings

The meaty chicken wings were crusted with a flavoursome spice mix and then perfectly fried to achieve a moreish crunchy exterior and drizzled with owner, Hennie’s moreish handmade peri peri sauce. 

Sticky pork ribs

The Sticky pork ribs were delicious. Juicy, succulent and coated in a sticky glaze. It was one of our favourite dishes from our visit.

Beef bobotie 

We loved the touches of South African on the menu. The beef bobotie (pronounced ba-boor-tea) is the national dish of South Africa and a popular Cape Malay dish. Hotel Spencer’s rendition comprised of a heart-warming curry mixture of meat, dried fruit with a creamy golden topping of baked egg.

Grilled swordfish with pesto and our special olive rocket salad

The  swordfish was nicely seared on the outside and delicate and moist on the inside. It was a fresh dish that allowed the natural sweetness of the fish to be enjoyed. We particularly loved the special olive rocket salad where the olives had been cleverly crushed so each mouthful could be filled with tasty olive goodness.

'Treat yourself' dessert platter

A playful dessert platter concluded our evening. The caramel croissant and butter pudding with chilled cream was of particular note. We loved the cheeky twist on the traditional peasant bread and butter pudding.

The folks at Hotel Spencer Bar & Dining Room have stayed true to the 100 years of its rich history in West Melbourne icon and deliver a modern twist on old fashioned 1920’s hospitality.

Location: 475 Spencer St  West Melbourne,

Phone: 03 9329 9116

Link: http://www.hotelspencer.com.au/

Cuisine: Steakhouse, International, African