By Carole Levy
Built in 1977, the Gladstone Park Hotel is being revamped, with its new look expected to be unveiled in the spring.
The popular local landmark already offers bistro and bar dining, an award-winning bottle shop, a small day conference facility and budget accommodation – and is home to various kinds of entertainment.
But once the modernisation project is complete, the pub will boast a new-look bistro with new menus, a dedicated sports bar, indoor/outdoor garden bar, function facilities and capacity for more entertainment.
Adriana Thomas, a long-time manager at the hotel, says the revamp will be sure to strengthen the pub’s already deep sense of community and belonging for patrons.
“Benefits to customers are always our priority,” she says.
“We make our core focus our people, presentation and products – this is what makes our venue unique.”
Since the pub’s doors first opened, it has been under the ownership and direction of the same third-generation publican.
“It’s rare and very special to be under the influence of an old-school publican, as well as having passionate and experienced kitchen and frontline staff who genuinely invest in each other,” Adriana says.
“Many team members have been with the business for more than a decade, with one recently celebrating their 30-year milestone. This speaks volumes about our commitment in terms of business approach and the calibre of our staff.
“Our executive chef is one such valued employee. She keeps a watchful eye on her kitchen crew and encourages the creation of food they love to make, eat and share. Products are made in-house using fresh ingredients and old-school, traditional recipes, with knowledge sharing a real plus.
“The new bistro menu will stick to traditional pub classics, but there’ll also be some exploring of fresh, modern dishes.”
The team understands the hotel’s expanded relevance to the area as a new demographic emerges.
“We’ve seen a shift, with an increase in young families and professionals moving in,” Adriana says. “The redevelopment isn’t just a business investment – it’s an asset to the local community.”
Family celebrations, work functions and meetings, product launches and more will be well catered for with the redevelopment.
“Another exciting aspect will be our new capacity to showcase craft beer and premium wine collections, as well as brewery fresh Carlton Draught tank (unpasteurised) beer,” Adriana says.
“And hotel members get to reap many rewards.”
Gladstone Park Hotel, 196 Mickleham Road, Gladstone Park. Opens daily; late on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Inquiries: 9338 3533
