The Angel of Malvern to open public bar in April 2026 and full venue in June 2026
The Angel of Malvern will reopen under the custodianship of Refinery Group, powered by Kokoda Property, with a staged launch across April and June 2026. The public bar opens in April 2026, and the full venue follows in June 2026. The reopening establishes the venue as the hospitality centrepiece of the Malvern Collective precinct.
The venue spans three levels, each with a defined role. The ground floor will house a public bar designed for casual gatherings. Level one will operate as a Mediterranean-inspired eatery and wine bar. The top level will introduce a late-night speakeasy concept alongside dedicated event spaces.
First established in 1856 as The Gardiner Hotel and later known as the Angel Tavern, the site retains strong historical roots. It occupies the corner of Glenferrie and Dandenong Roads, near Malvern Train Station. The redevelopment integrates original character with a contemporary design direction. As a result, the venue reconnects with its legacy while shifting toward a multi-layered hospitality model.
Design and Development Framework
Refinery Group represents Kokoda Property’s expansion into hospitality operations. Founder and Managing Director Mark Stevens outlined the group’s approach to the project. He said, “Refinery Group was created to extend the same design rigour and long-term thinking that define our residential developments into hospitality. The Angel of Malvern is the first expression of that – a concept-led, culturally grounded venue where architecture, food, service and atmosphere are considered as one.”
He added, “We’re not interested in creating a one-dimensional pub. Each level has its own identity and energy, but together they form a cohesive experience grounded in quality and generosity.For us, great hospitality isn’t just about what’s served, it’s about how a place makes people feel.”
An experienced team will lead delivery across design, food and operations. Studio McCue developed the architectural concept for the site. Meanwhile, global place consultancy Era-Co contributed to the broader precinct strategy. Together, these partners shaped the spatial and operational direction of the venue.
Culinary Direction and Expansion Plans
Chef Justin North of Concept Hospitality will oversee food direction across all three levels. He brings more than 35 years of global experience. His strategy centres on produce-led menus and technique-driven execution.
North said, “The Angel of Malvern has been designed as a layered hospitality experience, with each level offering its own character while remaining grounded in quality and consistency. Whether it’s a reimagined take on classic pub favourites on the ground floor, a Mediterranean-inspired experience on level one, or a late-night escape with a speakeasy vibe with unexpected bar snacks above, across the venue, the ambition is simple; to create food and drink that feels generous, confident and worth returning for.”
Studio McCue Founder and Director Chris McCue detailed the design integration. He said, “The design will bring together the building’s existing character and heritage with a mix of industrial elements and bespoke details. By carefully balancing original textures with modern materials, we’ve created a space that honours the venue’s history while offering a fresh, dynamic experience. The design ensures a seamless connection between the venue’s different levels, combining functionality with a visually rich atmosphere that feels both authentic and welcoming.”
Refinery Group has confirmed plans to introduce more than 10 hospitality brands across Melbourne and Brisbane. The pipeline includes The Saint in St Kilda, scheduled to open in 2026. The Angel of Malvern marks the first venue within that broader rollout strategy.
Location: 641 Dandenong Rd, Malvern VIC 3144
Public Bar Opening: April 2026
Full Venue Opening: June 2026