The Leveson
The Leveson, formerly the Eldorado Hotel, was opened in 1872 and has always operated as a local’s pub.
For the past 20 years owner and operator John Fox and his partner Emma have worked on the business, building it up to what it is today - a successful, popular and well loved venue in North Melbourne.
John or “Foxy” as he is known to regulars, friends and staff, has worked in hospitality for some 30 years after moving to Melbourne from regional Victoria.
“It was always my dream to open my own business. I’m passionate about hospitality and I love what we do. Once you’re not passionate about it, then there’s no point being in business.”
Fast forward to today and The Leveson’s team serves patrons across a multitude of spaces. Two bars, a restaurant, a courtyard with a retractable roof and a new street parklet on the lower level are complemented with two additional function rooms on their second floor.
Rooms and spaces are named after streets and the history of the local area in mind. The very beautiful Queensberry Room, Hotham Room (Boardroom) and Arden Bar are a nod to the past, with the present still in mind. So many spaces provide a multitude of function options for both patrons and The Leveson’s own events.
“We can have nearly 500 people here for the Spring Racing Carnival and have in the past run buses to and from the Flemington race track,” explains Foxy. “We have a close relationship with North Melbourne Football Club, with many functions and events during the football season here, along with our own AFL Grand Final Day Party and NFL Super Bowl days being a big part of our annual calendar of events.”
While The Leveson has cemented its spot in Melbourne as an events pub, it’s still serious about its local pub origins.
“We are a pub where we know our neighbours, we care about the area and we look forward to seeing our regulars and their families. Many local customers will come in at least a few times a week and COVID lockdowns were made easier knowing they were waiting for us to re-open each time. Many people just pop down to say hello, a quick pot and a chat - and we love that. That banter is still there, that you can only get at a pub.”
Food is always important at any pub and The Leveson’s parmas do not disappoint. What makes their parmas so popular?
“The chicken is a good thickness, crumbed in panko crumbs and of course loaded with toppings, plus they come with chips and salad. Thursday night is Parma night at The Leveson and is always busy; a Parma and a Pint is only $25 and is a night in many a regular’s calendar. It's great value and the night always has a bit of a buzz.”
Foxy also points to the popularity of their steaks. “We are always complimented for them and we have many to choose from on our menu. Our meat comes from both Gippsland and Flinders Island. Again, they are served with chips and salad and a choice of sauce or mustards. We want people to get good value.”
The Leveson is a popular venue and well loved with a loyal following. Foxy loves getting to meet new people and currently there are no plans that will change that.
“We’ve made a lot of friends in North Melbourne and while the last few years have been a roller coaster for our industry with some really tough years, Em and I love seeing the pub get back on track and making people feel happy is just so rewarding.”
Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna EncIOThe Leveson
46 Leveson Street North Melbourne VIC 3051
