The Montague

LOCATION
On the corner of Montague Street and Park Street, in a tree-lined and residential street. On the number 1 tram line, 10 minutes from the city.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
The Montague has been through many lives in its years as a corner pub. It was just a pub, then a gastro-pub, and now it sits rather pleasantly in the middle. There’s a big bar and a separate restaurant area, with dark colours and a lively chandelier to brighten things up. This dining room embraces a smart-casual essence where the tables have shed the white tablecloths, and there’s a big blackboard on the wall that lists wines by the glass and the different cheeses on offer. But there’s still respect for the joys of the table – proper white napkins, good glassware, and nicely informed waiters.

The menu provides a range of dishes, and covers all the familiar bases of steak, pie, pasta, and fish and chips with considerable skill. Salt cod croquettes make an excellent beginning and can be shared. Presented in a brown earthenware dish, they’re crisp on the outside and soft and salty inside. The salads are good, too – try the beetroot presented two ways, or an heirloom tomato salad with Persian fetta. Among the mains there’s always a pie of the day, such as chicken and mushroom encased in flaky pastry, and each is served in the English style with mash and gravy. The British influence extends to desserts, too, with sweet things like the seasonal blood plum Eton Mess. It’s a cross between a trifle and a pavlova with layers of fruit, meringue and cream. The wine list is fairly priced and offers a good range, including wines by the glass. Service isn’t particularly fast, which makes this a relaxing place to take a load off with friends and catch up over a leisurely meal.

Rita Erlich

DETAILS
The Montague Hotel is centrally located at the corner of Park and Montague Streets, and is now a destination in its own right. The public bar has retained its charm and integrity as a much loved member of the local community.Stepping into the Dining Room takes you into another world, with its banquettes, linen clothed tables and Modern European cuisine. Professional, friendly service will guide you through your dining experience.

PRIVATE DINING ROOM/FUNCTIONS
Upstairs finds a beautifully appointed private dining room for 16 people - perfect for any intimate gatherings or corporate events. The lovingly restored lounge with its own bar, has a comfortable, sophisticated ambience. Available for canape functions of up to 50 people, it is ideal for a celebration or work gathering.