What’s not to love about an old school pub; they’re cosy, inviting and well, in the case of St Andrews Hotel in Fitzroy, was the first of its kind to open back in 1854.
The Vujic family has run the pub since 1996, and now, Jasmin Vujic [who was born in the suburb and raised upstairs] has taken the business over with her partner Rob Turner.
The emphasis is on comfort food; with a hat tip to French bistro charm. Located opposite the Carlton Gardens on Nicholson Street, it’s a friendly pitstop any day of the week.
The Write Drop spoke to publicans Jasmin and Rob for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
Fitzroy, Melbourne. It’s only a short walk to some of our favourite bars and restaurants. Situated on the outskirts of the CBD, Fitzroy has a lot of character, a mix of the old and new. You never know what you are going to get here. It also holds a special place in my heart (Jaz) as I was born and raised there.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
Rob’s slow-cooked beef and pork bolognese (the secret is adding a cup of full cream milk at the end), and Supernormal for lobster rolls.
FAVOURITE BAR
Black Pearl, Brunswick Street, Fitzroy for the cocktail Highway Robbery. This is a custom cocktail that was specifically made for Rob over 10 years ago. It has now been included as a permanent item in their cocktail directory. Think – gin, cucumber, orgeat syrup, Pernod, lime juice topped with soda.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Jaz – Tommy’s Margarita – because it gets the party started.
Rob – Tasmanian Pinot Noir – because it’s fruity, light and doesn’t take life too seriously.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
An extra spicy Bloody Mary and Viet Rose on Brunswick St for a serve of Crispy Pork Banh Mi with house-made spring rolls. That will sort you right out.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Institut Polaire – Hobart, Tasmania. We discovered this bar on a holiday about two years ago and fell in love with the atmosphere, service and food + drink offerings. We went there every day for the oysters and on our last day in Hobart went again and ordered the entire menu.
FAVOURITE WINE WITH FRIENDS
A beautiful, crisp and minerally Clare Valley Riesling. We always reach for is the Crabtree Estate Riesling (Watervale).
FAVOURITE WINERY
The Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula.
NEXT DESTINATION
New York for our honeymoon. We are excited to experience all the Big Apple has to offer; its bars, restaurants, street food and culture.
https://www.standrewshotel.com.au
