St Andrew’s Hotel's Local Charm and Standout Pub Fare
St Andrew’s Hotel in the Fitzroy is a charming local pub that has been serving the community for over 170 years. Since 1996, it has been under the care of the Vujic family, who have preserved its historic charm while ensuring it remains a welcoming spot for both regulars and newcomers. With its cozy atmosphere, complete with a crackling fireplace, this pub feels like a home away from home—a place where locals gather to unwind and enjoy good food in a relaxed setting.
Place mentioned
St Andrews Hotel - Fitzroy
A Warm Welcome
Upon entering St Andrew’s, the first thing you’ll notice is the warm and inviting ambiance. The pub’s classic design features wooden barstools, warm lighting, and a fireplace that makes it particularly cozy during the colder months. The friendly staff greet you with a smile, creating a laid-back environment that invites you to settle in and enjoy your time. This sense of comfort extends beyond the physical space; it’s in the way the pub feels like a familiar place, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Australian Pub Classics And More
The food at St Andrew’s Hotel is just as comforting as the setting. The menu offers a variety of pub classics, each dish prepared with care and attention to detail. We recently visited on a Tuesday evening and took advantage of their $18 parma special. The chicken was perfectly cooked, the crispy breadcrumb coating, the rich and flavoursome tomato sauce and the melted cheese on top had us questioning: Is this the best chicken parma in Melbourne?
But the parma is just one of the many highlights on the menu. The oysters were a wonderful prelude, followed by a refreshing kingfish ceviche.
We also sampled the pork croquettes, garnished with pork floss which made us think of home. The fried calamari was another excellent choice, light and tender, with a crisp coating that didn’t overwhelm the delicate squid. Served with a tangy aioli, it was a dish that struck the right balance of textures and flavours.
They have a $25 steak night every Thursday or a selection of steak cuts every night on their ‘from the grill’ menu served with hand cut chips and your choice of sauce: rich pepper, creamy mushroom, red wine jus, classic gravy or béarnaise.
One of the most pleasant surprises of the evening was the pumpkin side dish. Too often, side dishes are afterthoughts, but this one was anything but. The pumpkin was charred to perfection, with a sweet caramelised crust that kept us wanting more. Recommended by our friendly waitress, it’s these small touches that make the dining experience at St Andrew’s feel special, even when you’re just there for a casual meal.
St Andrew’s Hotel is a place where tradition meets variety. The pub offers a range of weekly specials that keep the menu exciting. Tuesdays are for parma lovers, while Thursdays cater to steak enthusiasts. And while we didn’t get the chance to try it ourselves, the all-day Sunday roast is a favorite among locals, featuring Cape Grim Beef Striploin, Yorkshire pudding, duck-fat roasted potatoes, and homemade gravy.
A Local Gem
St Andrew’s Hotel is a community hub that has remained a beloved fixture in Fitzroy for generations. Whether you’re drawn in by the warmth of the fireplace, the comforting atmosphere, or the consistently good food, there’s something about this pub that keeps people coming back. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and feel like you’re part of something special.
St Andrew’s Hotel in the Fitzroy is a charming local pub that has been serving the community for over 170 years. Since 1996, it has been under the care of the Vujic family, who have preserved its historic charm while ensuring it remains a welcoming spot for both regulars and newcomers. With its cozy atmosphere, complete with a crackling fireplace, this pub feels like a home away from home—a place where locals gather to unwind and enjoy good food in a relaxed setting.
