Carlton calling

DESPITE rumours of unconfirmed property developments in the Geelong CBD, it’s definitely business as usual at the Carlton Hotel.
Co-owner John Mole said the Carlton Hotel appeals to all ages. While unassuming on the outside, the interior represents the charm of the art deco era. Timber panelling, open fireplaces and sweeping ceilings all contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Gallery Lounge is a new social meeting hub and designed for casual dining with family and friends. A feature of the lounge are the resin art booths and display of a local artist’s seascape paintings.
With three different sized function areas, there is a room to suit every occasion. The Carlton is flexible to cater for events that require large sit-down meals, live bands, 18th birthday parties, business conventions or more intimate business lunches.
“Once you walk in, you’re quite removed from the street,“ Mr Mole said.
“And there’s a very casual, relaxed atmosphere. It kind of seals you off from the rest of the world.“
The Carlton Hotel’s award-winning restaurant will have a new menu ready for the summer. Executive chef and co-owner Marty Bayliss said there will be more seafood options, lighter meals and a variation of fresh salads.
Current favourite dishes include the oven-baked crispy skin salmon, beef rib-eye with steakhouse chips, prime eye fillet with garlic prawns and pesto potato gnocchi.
“I’ve been in the industry for 35 years and I’ve always worked in Geelong,“ Mr Bayliss said.
“We use as many local meats and as much local produce as possible.“
Mr Mole stressed how fortunate they were to be surrounded by beautiful wineries.
“We have mostly local wines on our extensive wine list, including Oakdene, Scotchsman Hill and Swan Bay,“ he said.
The Carlton Hotel has a weekly Wednesday parmi night and provides lunch discounts to Geelong CBD workers, with six choices at $13 each.
For event bookings, contact hotel manager Melissa on 5229 1954.