The Esplanade Hotel Review

Review By Bethany Tyler

Since its opening over 30 years ago, The Espy has quickly turned into one of Melbourne's trendiest hot-spots. Located just down the road from St Kilda's Luna Park, it has become one of the cities icons, SBS seems to agree, with the Espy's 'Gershwin room' doubling as the home of TV show Rockwiz. Whilst you may not see Julia Zemiro running around with the camera crew, you will definitely notice the traditional pub atmosphere that hangs in the air, with open fires in winter, the characteristic poster-covered walls and not to mention the smell of counter meals and Carlton Draught ready on tap. Dishing out hot meals and cold beer all day and night, consider all your snacking needs covered.

During the day, The Espy Kitchen serves up all the typical counter cuisine, from crispy fries and wedges to their famous Espy Pizza's. From breakfast through to dinner and everything in between, theyve got your back. Once you've got your pub favourite, why not sit outside and look at the sun setting over the bay. If you're lucky you may even get to observe the array of homemade bits-and-bobs and nic-nacs across the road as part of St Kilda's Sunday market.

At night though, that's when the real magic happens, when the Espy's rich historical value comes into play, along with the rhythmic undertones of guitar strumming, bass plucking and key stroking. As a live music venue that has provided a stage for both Australian and International bands for so many years, it is a true testament to the venue's ever-increasing popularity. Musical legends such as John Farnham, Paul Kelly and Jet have all rocked the three Espy stages at one point or another, stages with which the Esplanade Hotel continues to fill with up-coming local talent, renowned international bands and even a DJ or two.

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty lunch and a beer, some live music and a cocktail or simply an afternoon coffee and the Sunday Age, the Esplanade hotel is the place to be.