To be fair, I have only been to this place and had a mixed experience.
We informed the waitstaff that we did not have a booking for a table of 2, and were told that they had several tables which were looking to move on soon. It was suggested that we wait at the bar whilst those tables finished off.
We waited at the bar for around 45 minutes (ordered and finished our drinks). In the meantime, no updates were provided by the waitstaff and I noticed en route to the bathroom that some of the tables in the dining room was starting to clear a little. In the end, we decided enough was enough, decided to leave.
We stopped at the door, to tell them to take our names off and the waittress then proceeded to tell us that they had just received a cancellation which made a spot available on the communal table.
We declined.
The bar staff were efficient and friendly. We cannot comment on the food as we did not eat any.

We made it to Andrew McConnell's latest venture late August for a mid-year work function. An excellent example of a "gastro-pub". Service was great, and the food fantastic. Can't recommend the whipped cod roe highly enough ... I could've literally eaten only that and gone home happy, it was that amazing! Pricing was reasonable given the quality of the food and knowledgable and efficient service. We were even lucky enough to meet Andrew McConnell himself that evening (one of my colleagues is a friend, and he happened to be in the kitchen on the night we visited). A very humble and charming man. Wouldn't hesitate in returning.

Approximate cost: $35.0

I went to the Builders Arms on a busy Thursday night with a friend. We had the set menu which was exceptional! The steamed mussels, and the whipped cod roe was delicious. This fairly good value per head - and we were very full by the end! They also have a great selection of beers and the bar staff were great. Worth checking out and it's in a great location! (can just catch the 86 tram, and it stops right outside)

Approximate cost: $8-65