places|vic|richmond|the%20grand%20hotel%20dining%20room
The name is apt. The Grand is a big old double-storey corner pub set in the heart of Richmond with a reputation for delicious Italian… food that is.
Editorial
The Grand places itself somewhere between pub-grub and fine dining, but its unpretentious atmosphere seems to go down well with many punters. Personally, I'd prefer my pubs to be just pubs, and I struggle to get comfortable in a venue that is trying to be classy and working classy at the same time. Nonetheless, The Grand has established itself as a hugely popular eating spot in Melbourne with a reputation for quality Italian with a contemporary Australian twist. The place had a serious interior makeover a few years ago and has since attracted a mostly professional set, being especially popular with groups for pre-dinner/lunch drinks.
The lounge features generously-sized booths and chunky tables, while the walls are painted in a Chinoiserie style of blossoms, giving it a vibe that is perhaps best suited to an older crowd. Some have described The Grand as romantic, but with its view onto the fairly uninspiring Burnley Street, you'd need to ensure you only have eyes for your date.
Although there are DJs playing on Friday and Saturday nights, it's more of a place to chill with a big group of friends. The award-winning restaurant next door is the main drawcard. Having won a Chef's Hat from The Age Good Food Guide for three years running as well as the drooling support of many food critics, The Grand has kept its popularity peaked with the foodie set.
Din Heagney, May 2010
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