A Centenary of Heritage and Entertainment 

Located at 114-122 Exhibition Street in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Morris House has been a significant part of the city’s landscape for nearly a century. Originally built in 1924, the three-storey brick building was named after Edward E. Morris, a professor of modern languages at the University of Melbourne and founder of the Victorian Charity Organisation Society (COS). 

Morris House was first established to serve as the offices of the COS, an organization dedicated to coordinating Melbourne’s charitable groups and promoting the ideal of ‘self-help’ among the city’s poor. The building remained a hub for various welfare organizations until 1957, when it was occupied by the Australian-American Association. 

After years of diverse uses, the building became the European Bier Café, offering a taste of European beer and cuisine to locals and visitors. In July 2023, Morris House opened bringing a new renovation with it. Now a four-level venue, reflecting its rich history while embracing a new chapter. The venue retains the legacy of its original name and purpose, celebrating the enduring role of Morris House in Melbourne’s cultural and social history. 

Today, Morris House offers a mix of modern hospitality and entertainment. The Basement Comedy Club, inspired by New York’s iconic comedy venues, provides a platform for local and international comedians. The ground floor features elevated pub classics and share plates, while the first floor offers live music, a bar, and an open balcony overlooking Exhibition Street. The rooftop and private event spaces add to the venue’s versatility, accommodating up to 550 guests. 

As Morris House celebrates its centenary, it remains a vibrant and welcoming space, continuing its legacy of community and entertainment in the heart of Melbourne.