Recreation Bistro owners to take over Paradise Valley Hotel in the Dandenongs

A Dandenongs pub where Puffing Billy can drop you right at the back door? All aboard!

Joe Durrant, Mark Protheroe and Steven Nelson, owners of Fitzroy North's Recreation Bistro, are taking over the Paradise Valley Hotel in Clematis, near Emerald. Its 120-seat bistro overlooks the Puffing Billy railway line.

"We are excited to take on such a historic venue," says Protheroe. "We think the area has potential to become a really strong hospitality hub, and having other great operators like O.My and The Independent nearby gives us confidence in that vision."

At least initially, the most obvious changes to the century-old pub will be on the menu and drinks list.

Like the Recreation, the bistro menu will be based around a custom-built wood grill, with a few pub classics in the mix. Expect things like duck pie, a local smoked trout salad, and a seasonally changing knickerbocker glory.

The wine list will be mostly Victorian, and local craft beers and Melbourne Gin Company gin will also be available.

The Paradise Valley Hotel will trade as normal until August 21, closing for minor renovations before reopening in early September.

249 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Clematis, 03 5968 4037