Restaurant

The Flying Duck Hotel: Elevated Pub Classics with Heart in Prahran

Tucked on a quiet corner of Bendigo Street in Prahran, The Flying Duck Hotel feels like a hidden regional gem that somehow landed in the middle of Melbourne’s inner south. Surrounded by towering palm trees and far enough from the High Street buzz to feel peaceful, this historic 1940s Victorian pub has been thoughtfully revived into one of the suburb’s most inviting spots for a relaxed meal, a cold drink, or a long Sunday session.

Source

Owner Brenton Lang (also behind Rustica and the Hobsons Bay Hotel) saw serious potential in the tired old Duck and, together with his Hobsons team, gave it new life. The result is a warm, welcoming venue that balances classic pub charm with elevated cooking — think deep timber accents, neutral tones, exposed red brick walls, and an iconic beer garden that’s one of Prahran’s best-kept secrets.

The Space

Step inside and the front dining room seats just over 80 across cozy booths and tables, with an atmosphere that’s equally suited to a romantic date night, a family celebration, or catching up with friends. Beyond that lies the star: the leafy beer garden, complete with a greenery-wrapped glasshouse that feels like an all-season escape. A marquee area with lounge chairs and coffee tables adds even more casual hangout space — perfect for balmy evenings or lazy afternoons with a drink in hand.

It’s family-friendly without feeling chaotic, and the enclosed glass dining area means you can enjoy the garden vibes year-round, rain or shine. The overall feel is unpretentious but polished — a pub that knows exactly what it wants to be: welcoming, comfortable, and focused on good food and good times.

The Food

The kitchen is overseen by the Hobsons team, including ex-Supernormal head chef Ben Pigott, and the menu reflects that pedigree: elevated pub grub made with Victorian produce and cooked over coal for that signature smoky depth. It’s hearty, generous, and full of flavor without being fussy — exactly what you want from a great local pub.

Standout dishes include:

  • Confit duck leg with fregola, tomato sugo, artichoke crisp, and green olives — rich, tender, and beautifully balanced (a signature that keeps people coming back).
  • Charcoal-grilled duck breast with braised red cabbage, plum jus, and potato hash — another duck highlight that shows off the coal grill’s magic.
  • Woodfired mains like slow-cooked whole lamb shoulder to share, served with flatbread, chimichurri, spiced yoghurt, and sides of fries, roasted pumpkin, and grilled broccolini — ideal for groups.
  • Smaller plates such as wood-grilled scallops with garlic and herb butter, soft-shell crab sliders with sesame aioli and slaw, buttermilk fried cauliflower with chimichurri, or beef carpaccio with green olive, shallot, and capers.
  • Classic pub hits: big burgers, platters of fresh oysters, and all the expected favorites done right.

Desserts lean decadent — think chocolate fondant tart with ice cream — the perfect way to end a meal here.

The menu changes seasonally but always keeps that mix of pub staples and thoughtful, produce-driven twists. Everything feels generous, flavorful, and made for sharing — whether you’re after a quick bite or a long lunch.

Drinks & Vibe

Expect a solid lineup of local and international beers, a well-curated wine list (plenty of options by the glass), and classic pub cocktails. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in with a pint, a glass of something crisp, or a negroni and let the afternoon stretch out.

The service matches the space: friendly, attentive without hovering, and genuinely warm. It’s easy to see why locals treat it like an extension of their living room — especially on a sunny weekend when the beer garden is in full swing.

Practical Details

The Flying Duck Hotel 67 Bendigo Street, Prahran (Website/menu updates via Broadsheet or direct contact recommended)

Hours (as listed; confirm as they can change): Sunday example: 12pm–11pm (check for full weekly hours, as they vary)

Features: Open late, takes reservations (recommended for dinner or weekends), family-friendly, outdoor beer garden with glasshouse and marquee.

Whether you’re after elevated pub classics, a spot to linger with friends, or just a great local with heart, The Flying Duck Hotel delivers. It’s proof that sometimes the best neighborhood pubs aren’t the loudest or the flashiest — they’re the ones that feel like they’ve always been there, quietly doing things right. Next time you’re in Prahran, duck in (pun intended). You’ll be glad you did. 🍻