Welcome
PALERMO BISTRO
- LUNCH Wednesday–Friday 12 pm–2 pm
- DINNER Tuesday–Saturday 6 pm–8 pm
CLUB HOURS
- Monday 11.30 am–8 pm
- Tuesday–Sunday 11.30 am–late
Your Local Community Club
- New members welcome. You do not have to be a service person to join.
- Membership only $50 per year.
- Regular club social events.
- Excellent function rooms suitable for all occasions.
- Free live entertainment every Friday night.
- Specials and events—see the Specials page.
- Family Fun Night every Saturday (kids eat and drink free) plus childrens entertainer free.
A brief history
The building was built in the land boom period around 1884–1886 and was first occupied by C. J. Potts, a Melbourne solicitor. By the early 1900s it belonged to Peter Dawson and his family. Around 1920 Marcella Dawson sold the house to John Allan Anderson, a solicitor, who also was a prime mover in the foundation of Mentone Grammar School. In the early 1920s returned men were welcomed there to functions in appreciation of their sacrifices during the Great War. The Andersons provided hospitality and entertainment for troops on leave during the World War 2 years as well. ‘Riviera’, as the house was called, was the scene of many dances and parties throughout the almost thirty years the Andersons lived there. In 1945 they moved out and the place was known as ‘Riviera Guest House’ for the rest of the decade.
Mentone RSL was formed during the World War 2 years. Diggers from both world wars swelled its ranks, making it necessary to have a permanent meeting place for social activities. RSL temporary hall was built in Balcombe Road near the railway and opened before Christmas in 1945. The current building was purchased in 1952.
Extracts from Leo Gamble
