Heritage meets modern hospitality as the Doutta Galla reveals its transformation under new ownership
The wait is over! Iconic pub Doutta Galla Hotel, affectionately known as The Doot, is reopening its famous red doors today, Thursday 30th October, after closing for major renovations almost exactly a year ago.
The much-loved Kensington local is back, with a transformation that goes across three levels, and celebrates its heritage while ushering in a new era of modern hospitality. There’s new and unique spaces, cold drinks and big flavours – all making it the ideal local for gatherings and good times.
Just metres from Flemington Racecourse, the Doutta Galla has long been a cornerstone of Cup Week celebrations, and that legacy proudly continues. The iconic red doors remain, ready to welcome patrons old & new, and symbolising mateship and stories shared since 1889.
And it is not just a new look! The Doot has new owners – Kickon Group (The Terminus Hotel, The Continental, Pincho Disco), led by Craig Shearer is joined by newly appointed Pub Partner Ben Lougoon and a group of investors including Aussie Actor Travis Fimmel and Ex AFL stars Luke Hodge and Andrew Walker.
Transformed spaces
Guests will see a completely refreshed ground floor with brand new private rooms, while upstairs on levels one and two there has been a total transformation. Gone are the run-down hotel rooms and rotting spaces, a new staircase now leads customers up from the dining room to light and open areas for private events and flow-on from downstairs. Across the pub there are four new bars to enjoy.
With dual street entry into the two semi-separate ground floor spaces – a lively public bar and a welcoming dining room, guests can choose their experience. The heart of the pub remains with dark timber and arched windows, but with a completely refreshed feel through new floorings, paintwork and brand-new long bars. For private events, two rooms offer intimate spaces for 10-20 guests, ideal for small celebrations and corporate functions.
Upstairs on the top two floors, guests can dine on busy evenings, enjoy Trivia nights and more. The flexible areas suit both small and large functions for any occasion. Unique spaces include exposed brickwork, heritage fireplaces, stained glass windows, skylights, dark and white painted timber, modern lighting and greenery – a mix of New York loft and old school pub. The spaces boast voids between the two levels, opening up the areas and allowing light to stream in.
Menu & Dining
Led by Chef Jake Furst, 2023 AHA VIC Chef of the Year, The Doot’s new menu celebrates seasonal produce, bold flavours, and generous portions. With over a dozen cuts of premium steak (including dry-aged selections) grilled on the signature Josper Grill, the kitchen strikes the perfect balance between elevated pub fare and approachable family dining. In a nod to the history of the pub, the steak knife handles have been made from timber removed during the renovation.
Beyond the grill, the menu showcases elevated pub classics including a Chicken Parma and Bacon Cheese Burger alongside dishes that blend comfort and creativity, from Orecchiette with lamb ragu and rosemary parmesan crumb to Red Curry Duck Leg with coconut rice & pickled cucumber. The Sloppy Joe with parmesan, pickled onion and garlic bun is sure to be a hit!
Perfect for sharing, the Snacks menu has plenty of choices, such as Osaka Chicken Ribs with spring onion & lime and San Choi Bao with cashew, rice noodles & soft herbs. The Stone Baked Pizzas are also ideal for both group and individual dining.
Behind the bar, guests will find 16 taps pouring local favourites including Doutta Lager by Hop Nation, Little Creatures Pale Ale, Stone & Wood Pacific Ale, and Guinness Draught, alongside a strong tinny and bottled beer list, cocktails, and on-tap wines.
Weekly Specials:
- Monday – $20 Local’s Day
- Chicken Schnitty, Fish & Chips, or any burger from the menu
- Tuesday – $25 Steak Day
- 250g Porterhouse with chips & salad. Upgrade to Wagyu Rump for $39
- Wednesday – $20 Parma Day
- Chicken Parma with chips & salad
- Happy Hour (Mon–Fri, 4–6pm)
$5 handles / $7 house wines / $12 select cocktails
Entertainment & Atmosphere
The Doot’s heart will beat strong through sport and live music. From AFL to international matches, local bands to DJs, it’s designed as a stage for entertainment and togetherness. The entertainment program will give locals an extra reason to gather, including live acoustic sets Fridays & Saturdays (9pm–1am) and Sundays (2pm-5pm), plus weekly trivia launching Wednesdays after Spring Racing.
True to Kickon’s community spirit, The Doot will also collaborate with local sports clubs, charity initiatives, and neighbourhood events, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Kensington life for generations to come.
“The Doutta Galla has always been about more than beer and food,” says Craig Shearer, Kickon Group CEO. “It’s about connection, celebration, and the energy of the community. This relaunch isn’t just about reopening a pub, it’s about bringing a Melbourne icon back to life.”
For generations, The Doot has been more than just a pub, it’s been a meeting place, a pre-race pit stop, and a hub for stories, celebrations and community connection. With four brand-new bars, new dining room & menu, versatile function spaces, and a 3am late-night licence, The Doot is ready to reclaim its place as both a neighbourhood favourite and a destination venue for Melbourne.
The Doutta Galla, 339 Racecourse Rd, Kensington VIC 3031