134 years later, the Morning Star Hotel in Williamtown sees a new light

Williamstown, founded as Port Harwood in 1835, was a viable contender to become what is now called the central business district. After being neglected, the small settlement was renamed Williams Town in 1837 in the same stroke of the pen that brought Melbourne into being. The area’s rich history reflects this, with architecture dating back to the mid-1800s and pubs that have supported local residents for generations. But legacy alone is not enough to keep them all afloat.

“Williamstown used to be a thriving pub area, but many have closed over the last 10 to 15 years,” says pub owner Stephen Mitchell (who co-owns the excellent Bridge Hotel in Werribee). Leaflet.

That’s what was feared for the Morning Star Hotel, a pub built in 1890 that has been marred by rumors of redevelopment. So Mitchell, Matt Vero (Marquess of Lorne, Mount Erica Hotel, Orrong Hotel) and Williamstown local Aaron Onofretchuk rushed to save him.

After a year’s hiatus, the grand old pub is back with a fresh design from Melbourne studio A Mi (Wally’s), combining mid-century pub nostalgia with coastal touches.

The original layout of the main dining room has been retained, but the old carpets have been replaced with rattan floors, the banquette seats are upholstered in corduroy, and the ceiling has a golden yellow hue. The front bar has been completely refurbished using retro mosaics and period lighting, while an extended beer garden seats 100 people, a children’s play area with a hut and sandpit, and a bar that is almost twice the size of the original.

In addition to staples like Parma and cheeseburgers, the menu includes pork tomahawk served with apple ginger sauce and coleslaw; slow-roasted lamb shoulder with pearl couscous and yoghurt sauce; and a butcher’s cut for two, which changes weekly. Salted snapper fritters and scotch eggs with spicy mustard and brown gravy are always ready to satisfy the inevitable snack craving.

As for drinks, at Star, each tap is independent. The team can sell whatever they want, for as little or as long as they want, without any of the fixed contracts that larger companies require. The current lineup includes Wolf of the Willows, Bodriggy and a house pilsner brewed at Stomping Ground. The wine is mostly Australian, with a few vintage bottles, and the cocktail menu is mostly classic.

There are also happy hour specials on Fridays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Think prosecco and oyster combos, $8 pints and two-for-one splashes.

Morning Star Hotel
3 Electra Street, Williamstown
(03) 9397 0069

Watch
Monday to Thursday from 15:00 to 23:00.
From Friday to Sunday from 12:00 until late.

www.morningstarhotel.com.au