Brighton Metro Hotel

BY LUCY BREWER

Even with its recent $2.6 million renovation, the Brighton Metro Hotel has retained the local character it is so renowned for—and Charlie’s Diner is as popular as ever.

The hotel was acquired by national operator, Australian Venue Co, in 2019, joining the company’s portfolio of 150 pubs. It was important for Australian Venue Co to preserve the 175-year history of Brighton Metro Hotel in the revamp, and prioritise the experience of its loyal customers, while attracting new ones.

While Australian Venue Co is a national group, it is a focus for the company to ensure its hotels stay true to their locality.

“We invest in our pubs after careful consideration of the local community, and what they want from their local. Brighton Metro Hotel was our first renovation project in South Australia, and we’ll continue to invest in the state. We love to breathe new life into tired old pubs, and we’ve had a fantastic response from locals after the Brighton Metro Hotel renovation,” said Australian Venue Co Chief Operating Officer, Craig Ellison.

Hotel Venue Manager Brad Johanson adds, “Brighton Metro Hotel is renowned for Charlie’s Buffet - arguably one of Adelaide’s most famous buffets - so it was essential to us that we made it even bigger and better with the renovation. It’s a beautiful buffet now, and it has something for the whole family – it’s been a hit with locals.”

“The addition of the large beer garden has also created a new destination for social groups – it’s helped us attract a new demographic to Brighton Metro, alongside our regulars and local families.”

“Keeping that brand there was a great thing that we did,” said Brad. “The people that we have come in … there’s a lot of the old ones that love it, and the new ones can’t believe they’ve never been here.”

Another popular addition in the renovation was the children’s playroom. The space is equipped with the latest gaming consoles, and a kids’ cinema that streams tv shows and movies straight from Foxtel.

“The kids love it, and it gives the parents the ability to sit down and enjoy themselves,” said Brad.

It’s in keeping with Brighton Metro Hotel’s appeal as a family-friendly destination, one that looks to accommodate all demographics.

“We’re happy to accommodate anybody here at Brighton, regardless of who you are, or where you’re from,” said Brad. “Brighton Metro is certainly becoming one of those venues that everybody knows about.”

Australian Venue Co is currently overseeing a major renovation of Waterloo Station Hotel, including an epic new beer garden and kids play area.