Pub of the Week: Mornington Hotel, Mornington
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Mornington Hotel
Where: 917 Nepean Hwy, Mornington
Phone: 8855 2284
Internet: www.morningtonhotel.com.au
SCORE: 13.9/20
APRIL 11
VENUE: Longtime stayer on the Peninsula pub scene, the Mornington Hotel has been an all things to all people venue covering all the activities that pubs of this size, a.k.a suburban barns, have done when operating also as the Tanti.
However, in a continual change to raise their games, the bigger pubs are enhancing their food and drink offer, and the Mornington is one of the leaders.
This is a most bankable pub, and is part of the ever expanding PubCo portfolio of businesses, including the Bay and Bridge (Port Melbourne) and Templestowe.
Indeed necessity demands this nowadays, as this beautiful bayside suburb has at least four pubs vying for your leisure dollar.
The Mornington has the full whack of one stop shopping from drive-in bottle shop, to modern, spacious sports bar, split level dining room, function room and accommodation on second level.
Tab: Yes
Pokies: Yes
Operating from 10am-4am, daily, the pub runs a number of specials during the week, including $25 parma Tuesday, steak night Wednesday, happy hour 4-6pm Monday-Friday. This offer is repeated many times across the ‘burbs, and the Mornington joins in.
The staff in all areas have a commitment to excellence in service.
A small list of starters, highlighted by house made and large arancini, pumpkin/feta, ($18), Napoli and aioli were a perfect starter, although a fine plate of calamari ($22) did create a sense of FOMO when passing our table.
All pub favourites here; classics, seafood, burgers, grill with daily specials dotted in. Most of these hover around $29-34, steaks being higher, starting at $46 for a 300g porterhouse, but is fully plated and a choice of four sauces. If you are after surf n’ turf then add $10 for a bunch of grilled prawns.
The food menu covers safe and familiar territory, but is generous in serving size. And for seniors, $20 gets a big choice of main courses, the corned beef, mash, sauerkraut, creamy pickled sauce stood out.
Carlton Draught ($7.1/pot) was excellent and wine choices are from a reliable list, including Wynns “Sidings” Cab/Sav @ $44 or $9/glass.
HIGHLIGHT/S:
– Nasi Goreng ($32). Served differently with chicken skewers (rather than pieces), bacon, shrimp, vegetables, bean shoots, prawn crackers (yeah it kinda works!!), all in a massive bowl. Plentiful for sure.
Something Different to Eat: Always expect a bit of food alchemy in the ‘burbs. Today: German parmagiana ($39). Schnitzel with mashed potato, bratwurst, mustard cream, sauerkraut, cheese, chips and salad. Be my guest.
Surcharges: None on cards.
Summary: In many respects, the Mornington is the acme of a pub doing the basics very well, something that its larger counterparts can lose sight of. As obvious as this is, the warm welcome on arrival sets the day up to be enjoyed.
The Mornington ticks over smoothly without any faults. Good pub to catch up with friends and family.
**Note to Pub: Your homepage doesnt include its wine list. C’mon get it up there and complete your nice story.