There’s a bear

By Bridget Brady
Mr Leishman has taken over as owner and manager of one of Cranbourne’s most iconic dining spots, the Bear House.
The restaurant has more than a 20-year history in the town and was re-opened in September after its doors were closed for about eight months.
Mr Leishman was convinced to take over the Bear House when his son and chef, Corey, noticed the premises were for lease.
Months later the phone was “running off the hook”.
“This is a long way from what I used to do. It’s quite a shift for me. It’s about setting a standard for yourself and your own restaurant.”
The rustic and woody insides of the Bear House made it an attractive location for dining, Mr Leishman said.
“When it’s dark and the fire’s going you would think you were in a chalet in the snow,” Mr Leishman said.
“I do think it’s an icon. It captures your imagination,” Mr Leishman said.
Mr Leishman said he would describe the menu as “Australian modern”, while previously it was seen as a “’70s bloke menu” heavily loaded with meat.
“I don’t think the girls put up with that any more.”
Mr Leishman said there were not many venues in Cranbourne that offered a dining experience like the Bear House, and said residents welcomed its reopening.