In the heart of Hawthorn, the iconic Auburn Hotel has been an integral part of the community for 135 years, serving up good times and great memories. Today, the beloved venue reveals a new face to its regulars and newcomers alike with the grand reopening after a $4.3 million extension. The refurbishment sees an expanded beer garden with a dedicated kids play area and the introduction of a stunning atrium-style dining hub – ‘The Pavilion.’
The multi-million dollar expansion brings an exciting blend of the classic and the contemporary to the local community. With new indoor and outdoor spaces, the Auburn Hotel is all set to become the go-to spot for food, drinks, and unforgettable moments.
Previously housing horse stables and a motorworks garage, the neighbouring site now hosts ‘The Pavilion’, a modern atrium-style dining and drinking area. The Pavilion effortlessly marries history and modernity, featuring a retractable roof, a captivating fireplace centrepiece and a state-of-the-art pizza oven.
The extension also includes a deck that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor dining, adjoining a beer garden and a brand-new kids playground. With something for everyone, it’s the ultimate spot for year-round socialising.
A refreshed menu, curated by Executive Chef Tony Moss, complements the new spaces. The menu features share dishes such as Burrata with sweet & sour tomato jam, Mushroom Arancini with truffle mayo and pecorino, and a range of mouth-watering Woodfire Pizzas. A full list of comforting pub classics like Lamb Pie and Roasted Pork Belly are also on offer, promising a treat for every palate.
Sports lovers, too, have been catered for in the transformation with big-screen TVs in both the beer garden and The Pavilion. Live and loud sports will continue to be part of the weekly line-up, ensuring no one misses out on the action.
Auburn Hotel Venue Manager Scott Matthews is thrilled with the transformation, saying, “We’ve been serving the Hawthorn community for 135 years, so this transformation is well deserved. More space means more good times and memories at The Auburn. We look forward to welcoming everyone back.”
To keep the locals engaged, weekly specials and events are on the cards, from $20 mains on Mondays to trivia on Tuesdays, parma nights on Wednesdays, and much more. Proceeds from certain events will support Koala Kids through The Auburn’s ongoing Local Heroes charity partnership program.
The grand reopening will be celebrated with a Locals Weekend from 17th – 19th November, featuring free drinks, a petting zoo, kids’ entertainment and live acoustic music.