An old dog gets a makeover and learns some new tricks in Fitzroy.
Griffs Hotel (named after the owner's beloved pooch), on the corner of Johnston and Napier street, heralds the arrival of the new Fitzroy watering hole; not a grungy rock'n'roll bar, but a classy hotel with a bit of something for everyone.
Drop in for a beer or a glass of wine in the front bar and have a chat by the fire, or watch a bit of the game. Grab a perch on a high stool and munch on the adventurous bar snacks (black pudding anyone?) and settle in for a few more ales or share a bottle of something different. Drinkers wishing to upgrade to a lazy afternoon can move through to the well-appointed dining room and settle in for a relaxed three-course meal that's a cut above normal pub fare.
While the Griffs location has had a few different guises over the years, the current owners have given the place a quality makeover. The front bar features tall dark timber benches and stools, a stacked granite finish to the bar, and some lovely mirrored retro booze adverts. If you are lucky, you can slouch into the couches by the open fire.
The wine list is extensive and adventurous, with a huge range on offer by the glass at super-sensible prices. There's a good range of tap beers as well.
Ben Maas
