Four-level pub Morris House, on the corner of Melbourne’s Exhibition and Little Collins Street, opened in July. Since then, it’s added a slew of regular events, including Jazz Night, Bottomless Bagel Brunch and Sunday Long Lunch.
“There is nothing like Morris House — it’s got all the best parts of Melbourne in one place – great food, comedy, live music and a rooftop with views,” says Venue Manager Dylan Howlett. “Each level at its own drawcard.”
The venue’s new owner is Australian Venue Co, the group behind the Auburn Hotel and Garden State Hotel. The group worked with Red Design Group on the interiors, with the décor reflecting the building’s history while adding European flair in the form of clean whites, brass fixtures and leather booths.
Starting at the bottom of the 730-person-capacity venue, the basement of the venue serves as the setting for a New York City-inspired comedy club, complete with dim lighting and a brick façade. Established comics will try out new material Fridays and Saturdays.
On the ground floor is a dining room and public bar where you can enjoy a drink after work or date night. It features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Exhibition Street and a modern European menu that focuses on quality produce.
Howlett says it’s the dining room that’s his favourite floor of the building, specifically the feature tables that let you look directly out onto the street while enjoying nibbles and a glass of wine.
On level one, you’ll find an entertainment space with a stage, dance floor and balcony overlooking Exhibition Street. Casual dining is available there all day, with the setting turning more seductive with dimmed lights in the evenings. Jazz Night is on there every Thursday, where you can sink into a cosy booth, sip on a $16 negroni and listen to live tunes. Bands are on every Friday and Saturday.
Finally, the rooftop is an inner-city oasis with terracotta-tiled tables, lots of greenery and white furnishings. DJs play on Fridays and Saturdays, and as of this September, a Bottomless Bagel Brunch is on there every Saturday from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
For $89 per person, you’ll get unlimited freshly-made bagels on boards loaded with all the classic toppings like smoked salmon, pastrami and pickles, as well as a bellini on arrival and free-flowing sparkling, house wine, beer, cider and a selection of Morris House cocktails – think espressos, margaritas and spritz.
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