Since its construction in 1888, Nundah’s Royal Hotel has been a community pillar. Stately on the outside and warm and welcoming within, Royal Hotel has long been a quintessential neighbourhood pub and chow spot – one in need of a bit of a sprucing. Royal Hotel owners Australian Venue Co. has just pulled the wrapping off the building’s recent $1.1-million renovation process, which saw architect Mel Porter Design blend the structure’s existing heritage elements with more modern accoutrements. The refresh began with Royal Hotel’s 120-seat bistro and terrace, with new marble-look tables, checkerboard floors, wooden accents and greenery conjuring a nostalgia-laced aesthetic reminiscent of old-school Australian pubs. Over in the public bar, existing decorative cornicing and exposed-brick walls are juxtaposed with five large-screen TVs airing all kinds of sporting fixtures. Royal Hotel’s first floor has also been transformed. Now known as Royal Quarters, this 200-capacity space is dedicated to entertainment, from live bands and piano bar sessions to comedy and bingo nights, with a dedicated bar, booth seating and character-filled decor establishing the room as a comfortable place to catch a show.

Royal Hotel’s shake-up extends beyond the interiors – executive chef Dylan Kemp has reworked the bistro menu, touching up a range of classic pub favourites while also adding some nosh-worthy newcomers. Mini fish ceviche tacos, Moreton Bay bug rolls and tempura zucchini flowers kick off proceedings, before the likes of braised-brisket sandwiches, plant-based schnitzel burgers and margherita pizzas enter into the mix. Pub-style stand-outs like chicken parmies, Stone & Wood-battered fish and chips, roasted cauliflower and chargrilled flat-iron steaks also feature, but be sure to save room for sweets. Royal Hotel’s doughnut fries with peanut brittle and baked brie cheesecake are perfect finishers. Good to know – Royal Hotel is teaming up with charity partner Mandate to raise funds for prostate cancer research by donating $1 for every parmi sold each Wednesday.

The new-look Royal Hotel is now open to the public – head to the Stumble Guide for operating hours and menu details.