Melbourne isn’t set to lose its crown as king of Australia’s pub scene any time soon. In fact, the volume of pubs only looks set to grow, with another new addition to Richmond confirmed in recent days.

Harlow will open in Richmond this December courtesy of DC Group and Newline Design. Settling in the former space of the Great Britain Hotel, Harlow is a self-proclaimed ‘good-times charged pub’ that offers guests a slew of different areas in which to sit and enjoy a drink.

Make yourself comfortable in the ground floor bar and dining area, or the split-level courtyard (hosting up to 250) and awash in pergolas and timber decking. For those who prefer something a little more ‘Melbourne’ there’s the grungy basement bar below, accented with booth seating and neon signs aplenty. Those with a puppy pal should also note, Harlow is so dog-friendly that it offers a direct entrance for pet and owners to walk through to gain access to the outdoor area.

As for the food, Telina Menzies has been placed in charge in the role of executive chef. The menu is focused on tricked up pub classics; duck and bacon sausage rolls, mini crab donuts, and sticky Jack Daniels and Cola pork ribs are just the beginning. For those arriving with larger groups in tow, there’s also the opportunity to elect for the pre-paid BBQ feast.

Mark Proctor has taken care of the accompanying drinks list, with tipple inspired by the music played within the venue. Divided into the sections of hip hop, pop and heavy metal, cocktails include the likes of Boyz-N-The-Hood (Jack Daniels, Apple Jack, Fireball and apple juice) and California Girls (citrus vodka, peach liqueur, pinot gris, orange juice and egg white).

Menzies explains: “Harlow is an old-school pub with a new-school twist; the place you head to for a casual lunch and kick on into the evening, drinking flavour-packed cocktails and dancing to old music videos or settle down on Sunday with the kids and the dog for a chilled afternoon. It’s fun, energetic and all about having a great time.”

Harlow
447 Church Street, Richmond
harlowbar.com.au