The old is the new at Brunswick East’s recent addition, Teller.

Many of us may recall our older relatives advising us to “save our pennies” and put our money in the bank. Although perhaps not in the same fashion that our relatives may have intended, Teller in Brunswick East is the new local establishment to leave your dollars.

What started as the State Savings Bank of Victoria in 1918 is now home to a bustling pub on Lygon Street some 103 years later. The converted bank has seen a huge transformation, now featuring a bistro, pavilion, garden bar, private dining room and function room. Operators Melanie Aldred, Alicia McLeay (ex-Maha) and Tessa Bennison (ex-Metropolitan) have created a community hub attracting both locals and visitors to the area.
Teller doesn’t feel like your typical local pub thanks to its modern yet warm décor and variety of inviting dining areas. The menu provides Modern Australian cuisine alongside a few elevated takes on pub classics, with options that won’t leave you in the red.

To start, opt for the grilled whole prawns with persillade, a wonderfully fresh opening to your feast. Smoked ham hock and pea croquettes with mustard mayo are a crowd favourite and it’s no surprise why. Imagine the flavour of a hearty soup in the form of a crispy ball of deliciousness. If you feel like something less pub-traditional, try the chicken liver parfait or the cured ocean trout.
For a scrumptious main, the 12 hour roasted lamb shoulder with asparagus, broad beans, garden peas, salsa verde and pangrattato literally melts in your mouth and is a must-try. Add a side of chimichurri carrots with hazelnuts and whipped feta to close the deal. For those craving a pub classic, Teller will look after you with its elevated versions of battered fish and chips, bacon cheeseburger, chicken schnitzel or steak.

If you have saved some room in your belly for dessert, the Bombe Alaska with raspberry and coconut is both refreshing and sweet.

Teller’s drinks menu is abundant with a range of cocktails, wines, rotating Australian and New Zealand craft beers, as well as non and low-alcohol options. Try the elderflower and thyme spritz or the “Who shot the bank teller” cocktail to quench your thirst.

With Melbourne finally out of lockdown, now is the perfect time to surround yourself with family and friends to enjoy good food and drinks in a relaxing environment. A great local is worth its weight in gold. If you want my two cents, Brunswick East has hit the jackpot with Teller’s arrival. Be sure to check out this asset that’s arrived just in time for summer.

Teller is open 11:30am-late Monday to Friday, as well as on Saturday and Sunday 8am to late. Find out more and book here.