The Excelsior Hotel, a beloved local in Brompton, has undergone a massive transformation, giving the inner-west staple a sleek new look while preserving its proud, old-school pub essence. This extensive renovation brings a modern, refreshed feel to the Coglin Street venue, with a completely redesigned dining room, a modernised gaming area, and a brand-new, state-of-the-art kitchen serving up a fresh menu of winter warmers. For owner Brad Barreau and his family, this project is a deeply personal full-circle moment, as they have a half-century-long history in the South Australian pub industry, and their connection to The Excelsior spans decades.
The cleverest part of the multi-stage makeover involved a complete floorplan flip to improve the flow for both patrons and staff. The team stripped the old gaming room, toilets, and kitchen back to the bones, updating all the infrastructure before swapping the positions of the dining and gaming spaces. This transformation included a large-scale kitchen overhaul, plumbing work, and the addition of windows to the dining room, completely changing the dining experience and bringing light and energy into the space.
The regulars are loving the new look, as it has given the pub a new lease of life. The Barreaus, who have been in the pub game for nearly 50 years, are committed to preserving the authentic, welcoming spirit of the venue. They plan to refresh the front bar later this year, maintaining the classic pub atmosphere while adding a modern twist.
The new kitchen features a pizza oven, allowing for fresh, on-site pizza making, which has become a hit with customers. The menu, designed to cater to casual mid-week dinners and weekend gatherings, includes elevated pub classics and a few surprises. Brad Barreau, a steak man himself, praises the King Henry pork fillet and the chef's butter chicken, making it a tough choice for his lunch order.
The Excelsior Hotel, located at 110 Coglin St, Brompton, is ready to welcome both long-time locals and new visitors. With its blend of old-school charm and modern upgrades, it promises to be a go-to destination for casual dinners and weekend gatherings, offering a unique dining experience that pays homage to the past while embracing the future.
