If you went to RMIT in the ’80s or ’90s you undoubtedly would have had atleast one drink in a pub on Franklin Street called Mac’s (whose name still adorns the front of the building if you look up). Mac’s has been rebranded to Captain Melville and the grungy student vibe has been replaced with a modern and bright gastro pub.
Captain Melville, Melbourne, Australia
I didn’t recognise the place when I walked in. A large continous bar streches across the front of the building where the 2 side bars and bottle shop used to be. Good seating options inside and also a cafe style seating area outside under the awning. There’s also a large bistro out the back.
But I wasn’t here for the architecture, I was here for the beer and food options.
The beer options are good. There’s the stock standard pub beers, but have a look at the guest taps and give them a try. We had some really good (and I mean reaaaaaallly good) beers.
The food menu is intersting as well, as it should be for a gastro pub. I enjoyed the slow braised pork ragu enough that I’d eat it again. My friend had the khao soi which he said was also very good.
A good, central pub with very good beer and decent food… worth a visit.