You could be forgiven for thinking you were at a brewery in Byron Bay or an inner-city hipster hangout when you pull up a seat at
The Hop Shop in Frankston.
This place totally owns a cool, edgy vibe for locals and visitors to enjoy an afternoon session or a few evening drinks. The business partners took over the location three years ago and have surged ahead to make it their own. Owner-operator Ed Cox spent five years brewing craft beer before this project. “It’s been great to watch the place develop its own sense of community and character,” he said.
The beer garden at the front comes into its own when the roof retracts and the area becomes an outside venue. Stepping inside, you’ll be impressed by the long bar that offers 18 tap beers as you relax on lounges or grab a stool at the high tables.
At the bar you’ll also find an extensive selection of locally made wines, distilled spirits, ciders and more. Margaritas, Aperol spritz and negronis are among the popular cocktails that can be ordered.
During the colder months, the fireplace inside gives a warm, cosy feeling. Out the back, an outside bar area buzzes and is a perfect size for group bookings.
Soulful tunes dominate the playlist, with occasional funk and disco added to the mix. Food hasn’t been forgotten, with the bar menu, delicious eats from Bang Bang of Mordialloc, and the crew making Asian hawker food for you to buy.
The bottle shop sells a great range of beers, wines, spirits, ciders and more, and there’s some very on-brand merch that’s popular with the customers.
Opening hours: see website
The Hop Shop 26 Playne St, Frankston P: 0405 137 969
www.thehopshop.com.au FB: thehopshop Insta: thehopshopfrankston