LOCATIONConveniently located at the intersection of Brunswick and Gertrude Streets.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTSThe Workers Club opened early this year from the bones of the long vacated Rob Roy Hotel. Named for Fitzroy’s initial title, the “Workers” has been completely refitted with recycled materials and arty furniture to give a bright and contemporary feel. The main bar area looks a bit like an old schoolroom with pale timber panelling and scrubbed wooden tables, while the secondary bar area, awash with pretty green wallpaper and fake creepers, is a quieter retreat during busy times. You can reach the band room and small outdoor area via a luridly carpeted (and walled) corridor that personifies a 70's geometric time-warp.
If you’re just a mite peckish, there are some great bar snacks such as barbeque pork and shiitake spring rolls, or the especially moreish eggplant wedges. Heftier fare comes in the guise of a Sri Lankan lamb or Thai yellow curry, homemade gnocchi with goat ragu or a rustic-style coq au vin. More typical pub offerings feature as well, with chicken schnitzel, coleslaw and smoked paprika aioli, chicken and mushroom pie with sweet potato puree, and bangers and mash with red cabbage, potato mash and mustard gravy, making an appearance. Workers also does a mean steak sandwich with rocket, caramelised onion and kasundi. There are several quality Australian tap beers, and while it’s good to see a dominance of Victorian wines on offer here, it’s a bit Merlot-heavy – a nice gutsy Shiraz or two would make a great addition for winter.
Angela Costanzo