Built in 1868, The Plough Hotel had grown tired, but has since been given a new energy and look from the owners of Carlton’s Kent Hotel, Joe Setaro and Tony Adamo. The interior, designed and mostly built by Setaro and his wife Tina, is fresh and bright with exposed light bulbs, white tiles, bare wooden tables and black trim. It’s urban but not too slick.
The same menu is served in the two dining areas (the bistro and the restaurant). Where the bistro is perfect for families, the restaurant will give you downtime from the bustle.
The menu is large but easy enough to navigate; the shared section is far more than small bites: calamari and croquettes are highlights, while mains run the gamut of good pub food; house-made pies with mushy peas, a classic chicken parma or house made pappardelle with lamb ragout.
Backed up by a smart Victorian and international beer and wine list, the Plough is a firm Footscray icon.