Businesses in Southbank

The Hophaus – a classic with a twist.

Since opening up in May this year, manager Scott Highfield says Hophaus has simply gone from strength to strength.

However, as he explained, a lot of love and hard work was put into creating this modern-day Bavarian Beer Hall, in a very short time.

“The place was completely gutted from the previous owners, which was the old Blue Train,” he said.

“We had Peter Maddison from Maddison Architects come in and redesign the entire venue from front to back, from the ground up. It probably took us five months to build as well as design this state-of-the-art beer system.”

The concept behind Hophaus delivers its patrons a classic German beer hall with a modern twist, which is clear for anyone who sets foot inside.

While that concept is heavily incorporated into its architecture, it is also entwined into its high quality German menu, which Mr Highfield says is important in giving the venue a point of difference.

“Melbourne wants something different. They want something new. They don’t want to try the same stuff over and over again,” he said.

“I think you need to be a little bit progressive to succeed from a food perspective in Melbourne.”

Marrying up to its menu, Hophaus offers 30 taps beers – expressing a wide range of constantly-evolving and seasonal niche beer varieties from some of the most cherished German, Austrian, Belgian and Czech breweries.

This is backed up by an impressive wine list, mixing Australian and European wines and an extensive selection of cocktails.

However, as Mr Highfield explains, Hophaus is busy gearing up for its biggest event to date, as it brings a splash of German beer and culture to Southbank for “Hoptoberfest”.

“Were doing our own take on Oktoberfest with Bavarian food specials and special Oktoberfest bier being flown in directly from Bavaria in Germany,” he said.

“Former Melbourne footy player David Schwarz will kick off celebrations as Hophaus mayor by tapping the keg, and there will be a live sausage eating contest, music and kids activities throughout the day.”

Hoptoberfest will run from September 20 until October 5.

For more information or to make a booking visit www.hophaus.com.au