The Green Man’s Arms

Green Man’s Arms is the fifth hotel venture for Alison Whyte and husband Fred Whitlock, who previously owned and operated The Terminus in Abbotsford and Yarra Valley Grand. If you were a regular at the former, you’ll recognise the kooky art collection on the walls.

It’s just one part of the purposely dated fit-out, which was completed in late 2017. The couple added burnt orange upholstery; green leafy wallpaper from England; wonky antique light fixtures from Grandfather’s Axe in Northcote; and an old Yunca fireplace that matched the existing burgundy tiles.

The menu is entirely vegan, with several salads and Israel staples such as tabbouleh and house-made falafel and hummus. Cous Cous is made in-house, using a traditional hand-rolled technique. As much as possible, ingredients come from Whyte and Whitlock’s 10-acre property in the Yarra Valley.

There are seven beers on tap, including Stomping Ground saison and Mornington Peninsula Brewery brown ale. There’s an extra hand pump for Holgate’s ESB. Bucha of Byron kombucha is also on tap – it’s best served with a wedge of lime, but you can also get it souped up in a Kombucha Spritz cocktail.

The couple has an extensive background in the arts (Whyte’s an actor, Whitlock’s a teacher), meaning Green Man’s Arms is more than a dining room. Live music, readings, trivia and bingo are held from time to time.