Living the Highlander life – Eat Drink West

WHILE the corner of Doveton and Mair Streets may be an iconic pub destination, the new owners of the building are hoping to bring it back to life.

In addition to operating The Farmers Arms in Creswick, new owner of The Highlander Chris Molloy said she wanted to take the venue back to its roots with its name while it ensuring it felt modern.

“With the Pub With Two Names name there was lots of confusion, when I got closed down because of COVID I decided to change the name back to the original,” she said.

“For the first 100 years in its existence, this building was called The Royal Highlander, which I liked but decided to drop the Royal.

“When renovating, I really did think about the building and wanted to retain some of the history like exposing the old bricks to show their age and restoring the ceiling made up of handmade plaster tiles.”

Although history is an integral part of the venue, quality food, wine and great service are the clear focuses of the business’ operators.

As a sommelier and a self-proclaimed “foodie”, Ms Molloy said she’s happy to answer any questions about the food or wine pairings to ensure the best customer experience.

“We have nice dining dishes, that are reasonably priced, but we also offer some pub classics so we’re really inclusive to everyone,” she said.

“I love wine, so we have loads of locally made wines, all reasonably priced, a great cocktail list as well, lots of whiskies because there’s a bit of Scottish heritage there with the name The Highlander.

“Our food is fresh daily, we’ve had no complaints, lots of praise and we have or regulars already, it’s been the best soft

opening that I’ve ever experienced.”

Similarly, to the set up at The Farmers Arms, Ms Molly said the business works to champion good quality local produce and meats throughout.

“We buy whole animals and do in house butchery and a lot of aging, we’re into meat and meat quality because I believe you can taste the difference,” she said.

“Outside of my own venues, I’m a vegetarian so I care a lot about ethics, so we buy straight from the farm and know exactly where our meats coming from.

“We do have a focus on local produce as well and I’ve got a great kitchen team who come with world experience so I’m really lucky there.”

While Mair Street continues to build up the CBD’s dining scene, Ms Molly said she’s grateful not only to her dedicated staff, but for the central position they’re in.

“I’m excited to be here, it’s a prime location, it’s right in the centre, right in the heart of the city,” she said.

“Can’t wait for the Gov Hub to open, it’s a brilliant position, I think Mair Street is almost the new main street in Ballarat.

“I’m super happy, I’ve got great staff and I love it.”