In 1936, The Prince was the city’s grandest splash of art deco decadence. In the 40’s the US military set up camp, establishing an officer’s club and pretending not to notice the area relaxing into Melbourne’s red light district – despite a red light topping our rooftop flagpole. In the 70’s it was Pokey’s Drag Show & Pennie’s Nightclub, early institutions of the city’s LGBTQIA scene. Sex appeal and progressive politics. That ringing in your ears is from when The Prince was ground zero of Melbourne’s punk scene in the 80’s. Blood, sweat and beers. Architect Alan Powell was in charge of the clean up in the late 90’s, with a sharp refurbishment that honoured our art deco heritage. By then, Australians were beginning to suspect our food scene was world class; restaurant Circa opened its doors at The Prince and proved us right.

And as for right here and now? Prince Bandroom soundcheck is live. Little Prince Wine bar is flowing. Prince Deck is buzzing, Prince Dining Room kitchen is hot, The Atrium is cool and in our 39 boutique Hotel rooms, the beds are ready to be unmade.

It’s great to see you back again, or for the first time, or forever.