The ‘daunting, exciting’ task of breathing new life into The Espy

Iconic music venue The Espy has a new lease on life as the owners of the St Kilda landmark reveal plans ahead of the opening in November.

The future of the site was uncertain before hospitality group Sand Hill Road brought the venue last year.

Plans include a Cantonese restaurant, cocktail bar, basement stage and public bar, as well as a space for live music.

Andy Mullins, Director of the Sand Hill Road group, told Grubby and Dee Dee on 3AW Breakfast he had met with the previous owners, and were reminded of its 148 history and just how iconic it is.

“(They said) boys as much as you’ve bought The Espy, you don’t actually own it,” he said.

“It’s a pub that means so much to so many people.”

Mr Mullins said ensuring the history of the venue is preserved, while also appealing to a new generation was an exciting and daunting task.

“Some people are going to love it, some people are going to question it,” he said.

“It is dripping with history, it’s the same floors, ceilings.”

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Photo: The Espy, Facebook