The Gertrude Hotel: Italian Gastropub in Fitzroy

The Gertrude Hotel, on the corner of Gertrude and Napier streets in Fitzroy, has been serving the neighbourhood since 1854 — but its latest chapter, which began in December 2023, transforms it into a Mediterranean-inspired gastropub with a serious craft-beer lineup. Reviewers consistently describe it as a revived classic Aussie corner pub, now offering Italian-style fare, pizzas, and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere (Concrete Playground). This guide walks through the key details for anyone researching whether to visit.

Last checked: 2026-06-23

Address: 148 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065 · Phone: 9942 0995 · Hours: Mon-Wed 5pm-late; Thu-Sun 12pm-late · Contact: reservations@thegertrude.com.au

What Makes The Gertrude Hotel a Fitzroy Destination?

The venue sits on the prominent corner of Gertrude and Napier streets, a spot it has occupied for more than 170 years. After a period of closure, it reopened in late 2023 under new ownership with a thorough Italian-inspired makeover. Concrete Playground calls it “a Med-inspired bar and bistro” that had been “reborn once again” after only being open since December 2023 at the time of their review. Time Out Melbourne frames it as a revived classic Aussie corner pub with fresh Italian-style eats and al fresco seating under white cedar trees.

“a Med-inspired bar and bistro”

Concrete Playground

The result is a space that reviewers describe as vibrant without being too busy. Yelp reviewers praise the friendliness of staff, while the interiors — bright, colourful, quirky, and two levels — give it a convivial feel. The bottom line: The Gertrude Hotel is a thoughtfully revived local that leans into its Italian-Med influences while keeping a classic pub soul.

What Is on The Gertrude Hotel Menu?

Concrete Playground highlights classic gastropub fare, Italian bites, and very good pizzas. Reviewers on TripAdvisor echo this, with comments about “awesome pizza” and positive mentions of decor and service. Time Out notes the “fresh Italian-style eats” as a centrepiece of the relaunch. The kitchen focuses on hearty, shareable dishes rather than fine dining — think generous plates of pasta, antipasti, and rotating roasts.

The pub grub standards are complemented by a strong drinks list. Beer lovers are well served: the venue offers a great range of beers on tap with craft options, making it something of a haven for those who want a well-poured pint alongside their meal.

“fresh Italian-style eats”

Time Out Melbourne

What this means: The menu is approachable and crowd-pleasing, with enough Italian flair to distinguish it from standard Fitzroy pubs.

When Is Happy Hour at The Gertrude Hotel?

The venue does not appear to market a formal happy hour, but its opening schedule suggests a strong evening focus. According to the venue’s own listing, hours are Monday to Wednesday from 5pm until late, and Thursday to Sunday from 12pm until late. That leaves plenty of time for after-work drinks or a leisurely weekend session. The craft-beer selection and convivial atmosphere make it a natural pick for a post-work pint.

Reviewers note that the space tends to be buzzing in the evenings, especially on weekends, and the open kitchen and bar layout encourage a social, pub-like vibe. The pattern: Even without a dedicated happy hour, the late opening hours and craft-beer focus cater to the after-work crowd.

Does The Gertrude Hotel Have a Rooftop?

The Gertrude Hotel does not have a rooftop area. However, Time Out Melbourne mentions al fresco seating under white cedar trees, giving the venue an outdoor element. OpenTable describes the interior as airy and bright, spread over two levels, with an impressive sound system that adds to the lively atmosphere. The lack of a rooftop does not significantly limit the experience — the outdoor seating and open-plan layout create an unfussy, airy feel.

“two levels of bright, colourful, quirky interiors”

OpenTable

The catch: If you’re after skyline views, this one isn’t for you; but the ground-level courtyard and tree-shaded seating offer their own charm.

How Does The Gertrude Hotel Compare to Other Fitzroy Pubs?

Fitzroy is packed with historic pubs, and the Gertrude Hotel’s closest neighbour in style and location is the Builders Arms Hotel, at 211 Gertrude Street — just a few blocks away. The Builders Arms is open seven days from 12pm until late, a similar schedule to the Gertrude Hotel (Thursday to Sunday lunch service). While both serve pub fare, the Builders Arms tends toward more traditional Australian gastropub dishes, whereas the Gertrude leans Italian-Med. Reviews suggest both are popular with locals, but the Gertrude’s 2023 makeover gives it a fresher, more contemporary edge.

Other alternatives on the same strip include small bars and pubs that focus on craft beer or wine, but the Gertrude Hotel’s combination of heritage, Italian food, and craft beer sets it apart. Why this matters: For someone researching a night out in Fitzroy, the choice often comes down to cuisine style — Italian-Med here, classic pub grub at the Builders Arms.