Many of us have navigated the twists of the Jamberoo Pass to enjoy a sunny afternoon at Robertson Public House. Now, Stan Crinis of Public House Collective has brought those same elevated-yet-classic pub feels home to the coast at The Grand Hotel in Kiama.
The Grand Hotel is the second venue in the Public House Collective’s portfolio, but managing partner Stan is no newbie to the Illawarra hospo game. Growing up in Wollongong, Stan built a career in design and art direction in Sydney before being drawn back to his roots 21 years ago as co-founder of North Beach Kiosk and Diggies Café.
With one iconic venue under his belt, Stan went on to open Dagwood in 2012, followed by Diggies Kiama alongside his wife Morgan in 2020. “We decided it was here we wanted to stay and raise our three children,” Stan says. “We loved the change that was happening in the industry in the Illawarra and the lifestyle of living and working in these great communities.”
Six months into his latest adventure at The Grand Hotel, Stan explains how the success of Robertson Pub, alongside his love and knowledge of the Illawarra, made this the ideal opportunity. “We wanted another regional venue that has that same local community feel, that needed restoration and where we could bring good energy, great food and events that both locals and tourists would love,” Stan explains. “So a heritage venue across the road from the beach in beautiful Kiama was a dream come true!”
This heritage-inspired approach is evident throughout The Grand’s thoughtful renovation – something that Stan’s design background caters for perfectly. Creating a space that balances old-world charm with contemporary comfort, original features have remained, while meeting a modern coastal feel through the new branding, furniture and design elements. “It’s a reflection of its seaside location – welcoming and chilled during the week with family-friendly specials, and buzzing on weekends with a fun vibe,” Stan says, noting that customer service remains at the heart of The Grand’s ethos. “It’s all about getting that balance of being able to evolve, yet keeping service levels consistent.”
The menu similarly honours the venue’s coastal setting, while casting a spotlight on local and regional producers. South Coast oysters, wagyu from Gerringong’s Schottländers farm and artisan breads from neighbouring Slow Dough feature regularly on the menu, alongside local catches for the popular Kiama Fish Pie – best enjoyed with “a cocktail in the front courtyard sunshine, with a vinyl DJ playing in the front bar on Sunday arvos.” Meanwhile, pub favourites and weekly specials still beckon us inside, including the Angus steak sandwich or Stan’s pick, “a Grand Schnitz with a schooner in the dining room after watching the Kiama rugby.”
As winter approaches, these heartier offerings will take centre stage. “We can’t wait to light up the fireplaces with quality pub classics – expect Robertson pub’s Bangers & Mash to make a trip down from the highlands!” promises Stan. And staying true to The Grand’s coastal location, “seafood chowder, pies and soups to savour with a glass of red wine by the fire will be the feel for winter”.
The Grand’s commitment to regional quality extends to the beverage list showcasing local craft breweries and Australian winemakers from across New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. “A big focus moving forward is our drinks program,” says Stan, with house-crafted spirits and brews from Three Creeks Gin and Highlander Beer and Brewing Co. set to feature prominently in special events.
We're passionate about regional produce and understand our responsibility as a prominent community venue to support local producers.
In fact, The Grand has quickly established itself as an events hub, with monthly takeovers by Thirroul’s Ciro’s Pizza proving hugely popular. Trivia and Bingo nights run on alternate Wednesdays, with Gin and Jazz nights planned for winter, as well as Sunday roasts with live music. Of course, a pub wouldn’t be a pub without weekly food specials – and community remains at the heart of The Grand’s offering, with additional discounts for members and locals.
This commitment to community has defined Stan’s approach since the early days at Robertson Public House. “It has been so fulfilling being a part of the local community – from sponsoring the local footy team, to hosting women’s networking lunches, being a wedding venue and hosting events such as the annual Christmas tree lighting,” he says.
Bringing that Robbo Pub spirit down to sea level, Stan’s focus remains on creating a similarly welcoming venue that stands the test of time, while celebrating his Illawarra roots. “We love where we live and our community connections, plus the ease of access to the beautiful beaches in our region,” he says. And a winter walk on the beach with a warm fish pie waiting just across the road? That sounds grand to us.
Visit The Grand Hotel at 49 Manning Street Kiama and follow @thegrandhotelkiama on Instagram for updates on events and specials.
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