Introduction
Nestled in the bustling heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Hickens Hotel stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s rich pub culture. Reopened in 2025 after a multimillion-dollar renovation, this four-level venue blends historical charm with contemporary flair, making it an ideal spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking a casual drink after work, a hearty meal with friends, or an energetic night out watching sports, Hickens Hotel offers something for everyone. Located at 127 Russell Street, it’s easily accessible and open daily from 11am until late. In this guide, we’ll delve into planning your visit, covering essential tips, pricing details, and standout highlights to ensure you make the most of your time here.
A Brief History of Hickens Hotel
The story of Hickens Hotel dates back to the 1870s, when it was originally established and named after Ebenezer “Abe” Hicken, a British boxer and Australian champion who managed the pub. Known for hosting illegal boxing matches, Abe brought a rebellious spirit to the venue that still echoes today. Over the years, the site evolved, most recently operating as The Crafty Squire before its closure in 2024. Australian Venue Co. (AVC) invested $12 million to revive it as Hickens Hotel, adding a fourth level and infusing modern elements while preserving its heritage. This renovation honors the pub’s past with nods to Abe’s athletic legacy, creating a space where history meets modern hospitality. Today, it’s a multi-level hub for dining, drinks, and entertainment, attracting visitors with its unique blend of nostalgia and novelty.
Exploring the Four Levels of Hickens Hotel
One of the most appealing aspects of Hickens Hotel is its multi-level design, each floor offering a distinct atmosphere. Starting from the ground up, the Front Bar is the welcoming entry point, perfect for grabbing cold beers and soaking in the classic pub vibe. It’s a casual space with a lively energy, ideal for quick catch-ups or starting your evening.
Adjacent or on the same level is The Carlton Lounge, where fresh brews are poured directly from Carlton tanks. This retro-inspired area emphasizes comfort, with seating that invites lingering over pints and pub classics. It’s a nod to Melbourne’s brewing heritage, making it a favorite for beer enthusiasts.
Moving up, the Dining Room and Terrace provide a more refined setting for meals. Here, you can enjoy hearty dishes amid a terrace that offers outdoor seating with city views. It’s suitable for group dinners or relaxed lunches, blending indoor comfort with al fresco charm.
The highlight for many is Abe’s Athletic Hall, an energetic playground dedicated to sports and fun. Named after the pub’s legendary founder, this level features arcades, big screens for live sports, and even karaoke setups. It’s the go-to spot for game days, with packages like the $50 per person Game Day Booth that includes snacks and bottomless beverages. Whether you’re cheering on your team or challenging friends to arcade games, this floor buzzes with excitement.
Crowning the venue is the Rooftop, a stunning open-air bar with panoramic views of Melbourne’s skyline. Perfect for golden hour sessions or evening cocktails, it features umbrellas, heaters, and lush greenery for year-round enjoyment. The rooftop is especially popular for its vibrant atmosphere during events like the Australian Open or sunset drinks.
The full menu is available across all levels, allowing flexibility in where you dine or drink. This setup encourages bar-hopping within the venue, adding to the fun of exploration.
Menu Highlights and Prices
Hickens Hotel’s menu focuses on Aussie pub favorites with creative twists, emphasizing fresh, hearty fare. Prices are reasonable for a CBD location, with options for various budgets and dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, low-gluten, and low-dairy choices.
Start with bar nibbles like Beer Nuts for $5, Marinated Olives at $13, or Hot Chippies with garlic mayo for $14. Snacks range from $14 to $25, featuring items like Salt and Pepper Berry Squid ($22), Sticky Honey Chicken ($21), or Crab and Corn Croquette ‘Fish Fingers’ ($23). For sharing, the Brewers Board is $44, packed with prosciutto, cheeses, and pickles.
Burgers are a standout, with the Cheeseburger at $29 (including cheddar, lettuce, dark ale onion jam, pickles, and chippies), a Plant-Based Burger for $28, and the Roast Chook Roll also at $29. Hearty mains, dubbed “Hickens Hearty Hits,” include the classic Chicken Parma ($33), Eggplant Parma ($31), Draft Battered Rockling ($33), and premium grills like the 250g Porterhouse ($48) or 300g Scotch Fillet ($59), served with sauces, salad, and chippies.
Salads and other dishes offer lighter options: Caesar Salad ($26), Waldorf Salad ($26), Potato Gnocchi ($33), or Barramundi ($36). Sides are $12 each, such as Buttered Mash or Market Greens. Desserts wrap up sweetly with Bread & Butter Pudding ($15), Choccy Brownie ($16), or Vanilla Slice ($18). For kids, Little Legends menu items like Fried Chicken Nuggs or Battered Fish are $15 each.
On the drinks side, cocktails shine with crowd-pleasers like Aperol Spritz ($22), Margarita ($25), Espresso Martini ($25), or frozen options like Frozen Squashie ($21.5). Shots and agave cocktails add variety, while non-alcoholic choices like Sippin Pretty ($18) cater to all. Wines start with glasses at $13.5 (e.g., Dottie Lane Sauvignon Blanc) up to premium bottles like Dom Perignon ($595). Sparkling options include Chandon Brut ($16.5 glass/$79 bottle). Beers from Carlton tanks are a staple, though specific pint prices aren’t listed—expect standard pub rates around $10-15.
Special packages enhance value, such as the $50pp Game Day Booth with snacks and bottomless drinks, or NFL-themed events with food boards and mini footballs. Overall, a meal for two with drinks might cost $80-150, depending on choices.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Visit
To make your trip to Hickens Hotel seamless, consider these tips. First, book ahead, especially for groups or peak times like weekends or sports events. Reservations are handled via SevenRooms, with options for tables, booths, or private functions. Walk-ins are welcome, but the rooftop and Abe’s Athletic Hall fill up quickly.
Getting there is straightforward: It’s centrally located near public transport, with trams on Collins or Bourke Streets, or a short walk from Flinders Street Station. Parking is available in nearby lots, but public transport is recommended to avoid CBD congestion.
Best times to visit depend on your vibe—lunch for a relaxed meal (11am-3pm), happy hour for deals (check website for specials), or evenings for live sports and karaoke. In summer, aim for the rooftop at sunset; in winter, heaters keep it cozy. Dress casually, but smart-casual for evenings.
If you’re visiting from afar, like Faisalabad, note the time difference (Pakistan is 5-6 hours behind Melbourne depending on daylight savings). The current Melbourne time would be around 11:16 PM AEDT on February 1, 2026. Budget for Australian dollars, and download The Pass app for $10 off your first order.
Accessibility is good, with elevators for upper levels, but confirm for specific needs. Inform staff of allergies—the menu notes options, but kitchens handle fresh prep. For events, check the website’s “What’s On” for live tunes, trivia, or seasonal happenings.
Must-See Highlights and Events
Hickens Hotel’s highlights revolve around its playful personality and diverse offerings. The rooftop views are unbeatable, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos or romantic evenings. Abe’s Athletic Hall stands out for its interactive fun—arcades harken back to Abe’s boxing days, while big screens broadcast major sports like AFL, NFL, or tennis.
Events keep things exciting: karaoke nights, live music, and themed packages like the Australian Open watch parties with cocktails and food. Reviews praise the gnocchi ($33) and porterhouse steak ($48) for their quality, alongside friendly service and a great drink selection. Despite one low TripAdvisor rating, overall feedback highlights the venue’s appeal as a “one-of-a-kind pub.”
Private functions are another draw, with spaces accommodating up to large groups for birthdays or corporate events.
Conclusion
Hickens Hotel encapsulates Melbourne’s spirit—historic yet modern, casual yet exciting. With its affordable prices, diverse menu, and multi-level adventures, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. Plan ahead, embrace the vibes, and you’ll leave with memorable stories. Whether sipping a spritz on the rooftop or cheering in Abe’s Hall, Hickens Hotel promises good times.
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Hickens Hotel?
Hickens Hotel is open daily from 11am until late.
Does Hickens Hotel offer accommodation?
No, it’s a pub and bar venue, not a hotel with rooms. “Hotel” in Australian slang often refers to pubs.
How can I make a reservation?
Use the SevenRooms platform via their website or app for tables, booths, or functions.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, the menu includes items like Eggplant Parma ($31), Plant-Based Burger ($28), and various salads with vegan adaptations marked.
What is the average cost for a meal and drink?
Expect $20-40 for mains, $20-25 for cocktails, and $10-15 for beers. A full experience for one might be $50-80.
Is there parking nearby?
Limited street parking; use nearby paid lots or public transport.
Can I host events there?
Yes, private functions are available across levels—contact via website for details.
What makes the rooftop special?
It offers city skyline views, heaters for comfort, and is ideal for spritzes and sunsets.
