Pub:  Mountain View Hotel

Where: 70 Bridge Rd., Richmond
Phone: 9428 6449
Date:  14 May 2010
Score:  13.6/20
Internet:  www.mtviewhotel.com.au

In the best traditions of a pub having a second reference, this week’s pub, the Mountain (Mt) View, will always be referred to as “Barassi’s” pub.

It has to be at least 20 years since Ron and Gags (Gallagher) ran this pub, its most stunning feature being a gentle 6-8 minute stroll to the MCG and forever the link between this pub and the champion is intertwined.

I like the View, and in spite of the lack of parking, I see why it has been such a popular fixture.

Clean, efficient, female friendly, great roof top area, all add up to a nice package supported by good beer and well priced food. And while footpath dining is not my thing, most evenings will see the tables and chairs on Bridge Rd taken.

Since my last visit 3 years ago, the thing noticed first is the lack of clutter. While it may have its attractions, a pin ball machine hanging from the ceiling as a prize to be won is not a good look.

No, it’s down to business and the public bar, set on 3 split levels houses the diners closest to the street and two lower areas for having a drink and chat. Floorboards are polished immaculately, and it is easy to move between areas.

The menu covers all bases and an absolute plus is the sensible pricing approach to food and wine. Most mains are high teens, and bottles of commercially available wine are priced in the high 20’s which is bang on in my opinion.

It is good pub grub, with some snacky “wraps” for those wanting to dine in a hurry. A specials board adds another 4 or so mains, with a chicken and mushroom pie for $18 part of the mix.

The pub lists “flat bread pizza” and the large costs around $16, cut irregularly. This was a beauty and had some pork and chorizo meatballs, mozzarella, caramelised onions and parsley.

Also tried was;

- Risotto, with lobster pieces, peas and herbs - $19. It was fine, if not a little overpowered by the herbs which dominated the taste of the lobster but very filling and made a nice change for those pubs who attempt risotto,

- Pork Sausages - $16 – with butter mash and jus. I love snags and these were two absolute monsters, with great spuds and a tasty rich dark gravy. Simple pub tucker, neatly done.

- Leo Buring Riesling - $33. That’s the price for this wonderful old warrior of the Australian wine industry. Never misses and as such didn’t on this occasion.

It was worth the watch from the bar to see the number of plates come out and all looked to be presented properly and fairly portioned. A meal of flathead tails (18) looked to have 4 large fingers, chips and salad and by any measure that is fair shopping in a pub.

One thing though: I have monitored pub web sites this year and the Mt. View (unless they change it weekly) has out of date pricing on food and what is available. A trifle, I know, but the more you sell your pub via the site, then surely it has to provide a bounce in the business.

But I liked the whole package and in an area as popular as Bridge Rd is, it seems that the good, steady as she goes approach works for them. There is a locals night (conditions apply – and what they are I don’t know!!) on Mondays when it’s a tenner and you have a pick of the board.

For all of its proximity to the G, there isn’t a great deal of footy stuff adorning the walls – save for a Sydney Swans jumper. Given Ron’s contribution to the national game in the Harbour Town, the jumper is not out of place.

The Mountain View and Barass are travelling quite nicely thank you.

Tony's Pub Of The Week 2010

Tony Leonard is back again this year providing readers with reviews from all the pubs he visits on the Neil Mitchell program every Friday after 11:30am. Your home for all of the reviews - 3AW.com.au/pub2010. View all the reviews by clicking on Tony's image on the right.