Historic Lorne hotel to reopen

LORNE’S historic Grand Pacific Hotel will next week reopen its doors to the community for the first time in more than three years.

Now under the management of hospitality heavyweights Mary-Ann and Matthew Humphries, the venue is set to open to the public on Wednesday, October 2.

Boasting a new kitchen, a fresh colour scheme that adheres to the vintage of the building and a refurbished front main bar and terrace, the Grand Pacific has undergone significant renovations in recent months as the duo works to restore the venue to its former glory.

 

 

The endeavour follows 13 years at the helm of the award-winning Halls Gap Hotel, with several of the couple’s former staff making the move with them.

For Ms Humphries, who grew up in Lorne and even worked at the Grand Pacific as a teenager, the venture also feels like a homecoming.

“We definitely want the venue to hold its place in the heart of the locals, and not only the locals that live [in Lorne], but the locals that come to Lorne all the time,” she said.

“It’s been an absolute joy as we do the construction and we’re on site. People walk past and…they share wonderful stories of really good times, music, great food, great hospitality.

“That’s what we want going forward: a place where people can come together and share stories and be as a community and have celebrations, whether it’s their birthday parties or weddings or just the Friday night beer with their mates.”

 

 

And in news that will delight locals and visitors alike, the venue’s renowned Fishos Bar is also making its return.

“It’s going back to the original, so it will be a public bar. It’s got a beautiful fireplace [and] plenty of beer on tap,” Ms Humphries said.

The venue will also feature a carefully curated Italian-infused menu, crafted by head chef Michaelangelo Hindmarch and inspired by his international expertise and Melbourne’s culinary scene.

From delectable share plates and artisanal pasta to elevated pub classics and decadent desserts, its a dining experience that’s sure to captivate the senses.

 

 

The hotel is already known for its stunning views, and Ms Humphries said some careful planning meant almost every seat, both inside and outside the venue, will enjoy an ocean view.

“We’re just waiting on some nice weather to have beautiful cocktails on that terrace at the front.”

From here, the Grand Pacific will continue to reopen in stages, with the refurbishment of the venue’s band room next in line, followed by the hotel rooms on the upper floors.

 

 

It is an approach Ms Humphries said will ensure the beloved hotel is restored effectively and with care.

The Grand Pacific Hotel will trade Wednesdays through to Sundays each week.

For more information, follow @GrandPacificLorne on Instagram or head to grandpacific.com.au