After six years, historic pub The Albert Park Hotel has reopened its doors. It then closed them again, following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. And now they’re open once again. The newly renovated watering hole reveals stunning light-filled interiors and an Aussie Chinese restaurant that slings spring rolls and prawn toast.

A new refit by Six Degrees Architects reveals a jaw-dropping four-storey atrium that floods the venue with natural light. Original brickwork has been paired with leather lounges, teal carpet and overflowing greenery, which includes an internal native fig tree. Stylist Anna Roberts has filled the Victorian building with rare vintage finds, from antiques and artefacts to decorative Chinoiserie pieces.

The main restaurant, Happy Valley, will trade in old school Chinese classics with an upmarket spin. Scoot into one of the red leather booths and order up big from head chef Karloong Yee’s produce-driven menu that includes banquet favourites like spring rolls, prawn toast, chicken and chive pan-fried dumplings and their take on beef and black pepper made from wagyu with Kampot.

Upstairs, a Chinoiserie-inspired bar will shake up Asian-inspired tipples like the five spice old fashioned alongside prawn crackers and pork scratchings. The wine list includes 15 sips by the glass as well as an impressive selection of reserve wines. Pull up a seat at the bar or reserve one of the private booths enclosed by rattan screens.

The Albert Park Hotel is located at the corner of Montague and Dundas Place, Albert Park VIC. It opens Wed-Sun 12pm-late. For full details, head to thealbertpark.com.au.