Hub of top entertainment

AS THE sun begins to set, the light continues to shine on Belgrave’s hub of great music, restaurants and entertainment.
In times gone by, the Cameo Cinema became the centre for Belgrave’s entertainment when it opened in 1935.
While there have been changes in ownership over time, and even a few years in the 1960s when it was closed, the region has continued to see it thrive.
Eddie Tamir purchased The Cameo in 2003, adding new cinemas, including a bar and rear deck overlooking the outdoor cinema.
The Bell Tavern, established over 17 years ago, welcomed new publicans Wendy and Richard in July 2013.
On the high side of the main street, the Bell is open seven days a week.
Across the road, in about 2000, The Lazy River was established as a pool room and bar.
It soon became Ruby’s – ‘the’ place to hear live bands.
When it closed a couple of years ago, a collective gasp might have been heard.
The Scarab Bar, tucked away next door to the Bell, had some great music belting out of that tiny place, too.
It closed soon after Ruby’s, but the lull was short-lived.
Sooki Lounge opened in November 2013 and there was another collective gasp – of amazement this time at how the old Ruby’s building had been superbly renovated by new owners Suzana and Steve.
The venue quickly became a popular spot.
Gin Lane recently opened its doors as Belgrave’s newest venue, rejuvenating the old Scarab Bar site.
Bubbling along (pardon the pun) around the corner in Bayview Road is Oscar’s Ale House.
Established in 2008 by its owners Gypsy and Brad, it has become well-renowned for Australian Craft Beer and international imports, winning many awards, including the 2010 People’s Choice Award for best small beer venue in Australia.
Some might still remember the Aztec Bar on this site for many years before that.
And just out of the town centre along Monbulk Road is Micawber Tavern – established since 1923.
Whether it’s music you’ve come to hear at any of these venues, or to see a movie at the Cameo, you also have a choice of fine restaurants in Belgrave’s town centre.
This includes Australian, Chinese, French, Indian, Italian, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.
Belgrave’s Cellars is in a handy spot on Main Street near the Arcade and new owner, Joe, will be happy to help you with your selection.
Private group bookings are available at some of Belgrave’s venues and restaurants, too.
One of the highlights on Belgrave’s calendar – a night that begins quite differently – is the community winter solstice event, the Belgrave Lantern Parade.
It starts at 4pm, the highway closes at 5.30pm for the parade to light the way with lanterns held high, and a warm glow can be felt emanating from Belgrave’s collective heart to take us further into the night, and forward … to a new and beautiful day.