Chef David Boyle Is Giving Dr Morse, Bodriggy Brewing Co and Albion Hotel Collingwood New Culinary Identities
The menus at several cherished inner-city venues are getting a big lift — and Dr Morse has scored a revamped NYC vibe.
Northside stalwart Dr Morse is moving into a new era in 2025, with a refreshed dining experience designed to bring the food and drink up to par with the dance floor. And it's not the only venue getting a boost, with much-loved Northside Group spots like Bodriggy Brewing Company and Albion Hotel Collingwood also getting taken to new heights. In charge of this revolution is executive chef David Boyle, who brings his expertise from the helm of Farmer's Daughters to give each venue a unique culinary identity.
On the agenda, Bodriggy Brewing Company will continue to showcase bold Latin-American flavours, as Albion Hotel Collingwood shifts towards an English pub concept with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. With the venue's fit-out already lending itself to the theme by featuring tartan carpets and cosy wood panelling, this updated dining style is an effortless match. Yet the biggest change of all is happening at Dr Morse. Coinciding with the venue's 12th anniversary, a substantial renovation will welcome the launch of Bistro Disco – a New York Italian-inspired eatery.
Featuring a heavily refreshed menu primed for lunches and dinners, expect a fresh range of deli sandwiches and pasta specials throughout the week. After-dark, family-style dishes will focus on quality produce across primi plates, antipasto and several rich pasta creations. Highlights include focaccia made with extra virgin olive oil and Bodriggy beer alongside lasagne ravioli with grass-fed beef, free-range pork, bechamel and house sugo. Meanwhile, sweet treats like torta caprese make for the ideal finish.
The beverage offering has also received a shake-up, with Tyler Dent (Aru, Firebird, Mr West) and Patrick Maxwell (Cookie) curating an extended wine list and playful cocktail selection inspired by European sensibilities. Guests will encounter an apéritif vermouth program alongside classic cocktails like ice-cold martinis and sours. One special creation is the Torta Della Nonna – a punch featuring roasted pine nut bourbon, Strega, lemon and croissants.
Ushering in this change is a substantial renovation. Owner and builder Anthony Daniels has refreshed the space with warm, mid-century charm, where custom-made banquette seating and tanned timber panels pair with a tiled bar and vintage lighting. A lowered wall in the dining area also helps connect inside and out, making for a seamless flow between the dining area and the bustling beer garden. Plus, dedicated DJ decks in the bistro help amplify the new vibe.
"Our goal was to create a space that feels inviting, and comfortable to spend time in," says Daniels. "It's all about maintaining a fun, flexible energy while staying true to the distinctive charm Dr Morse has always been known for."
Dr Morse is now open at 274 Johnston St, Abbotsford. Head to the Facebook page for more information.
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