Daniel Masters
06/01/2021
It pains me to write this review. I was a massive fan of St Andrews Hotel (then known as Pumphouse Hotel) - for years, my tradition was to visit with my brother to celebrate, and we would order the Pumphouse Burger. It was always impeccable. I am a massive burger afficianado, and have tried over 100 different burgers from here and around the world; I have always felt that the Pumphouse was criminally underrated and underknown, and should have ranked amongst the rest of Melbourne's burger royalty.
However, fast forward to a few weeks ago. I brought my friend for a highly anticipated post-lockdown meal. Despite the impressive proportions remaining, the burger patty had barely any flavour. It seems the chef has been replaced and has changed the recipe, as it better resembled a rissole rather than a burger patty - there was no meaty flavour; rather, it tasted watered down with other bland ingredients used to bulk up the thickness.
On the upside, the remaining burger ingredients were excellent, and the onion rings & chips were as good as before. The 666 Pink Lemonade jug was delicious, refreshing and great value. The service and atmosphere were warm and inviting as always.
I sincerely hope this feedback is taken seriously so I can once again return to this storied establishment.