The Cricketers Arms Hotel in Port Melbourne has been revamped and renamed The House of Wine and Food by Melbourne hoteliers Deborah and Alan Giles.
The venue offers a range of spaces including the front bar; the Victorian-style Private Library dining room, which suits intimate, small-group dining; a European-style bistro; and a sheltered, year-round courtyard dining area for up to 100 people.
“Our front bar is a cosy place perfect for meeting friends for a drink after work,” Alan Giles said. “It is stylish and comfortable with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.”
Drinks can be accompanied by small platters of jamon, salumi, charcuterie, antipasto, cheese, olives, pates and oysters, which range in price from $12 to $30. The wine list includes a selection from Australia, France and Italy, with a large range by the glass. There are beers from Carlton, Coopers, Kronenburg and Peroni.
Decor has been chosen to reflect the history of the building, which dates back to the 1870s, with a warm timber interior, antiques, a cosy bar and a courtyard designed to feel like a home garden.
“We deliberately avoided cutting-edge materials like glass, concrete and steel, and set about creating an evocative atmosphere which goes to the heart of hospitality, a feeling of coming together with family and friends in an extension of home,” Giles said.
“The old Cricketers Arms Hotel had the right structure and location for the sort of business that we wanted to create. While the structure is the same, the décor has been completely renewed.”
The House of Wine and Food is open Wednesday to Sunday from noon until late. It is closed for lunch on Saturdays, except by arrangement.