Vibe check: pubs with the best energy (and food).
What is it about Australians and their love of the great Aussie pub?
Perhaps it's that within any local you’ll hear laughter amongst friends and lovable strangers, the clinking of glasses of the usuals and special occasions, admire and marvel at each establishment's unique decor and carpet and then there’s the odd sound of blissful silence as patrons indulge in culinary delights - often at more than reasonable prices. That’s not to say that each pub, tavern or bar is the same. No, each wateringhole holds a very unique and different place in our hearts. The vibes vary from inn to taproom, it’s what we love and what makes the pub so great. Here is a list of a few of our favourites and the vibe you can expect when you get there. Cheers.
The Rook, Sydney NSW
Vibe: Post-work rooftop refreshment
Tucked up high, away from the hustle and bustle of frazzled suits and business calls below, you’ll find The Rook - one of Sydney’s most looked for rooftops. Located in the heart of the CBD, their innovative cocktails and gin tasting events offer a unique change for the 9-5 workers looking for a refresher after a long day. The delightful Asian inspired bar food is a far cry from the typical pub’s deep fried parmys and wedges. Instead, you’ll indulge in lobster rolls and caramelised prawn betel leaves. Um, yum!
Our pick: Lobster roll & Flower Power cocktail.
Albion Hotel, Albury NSW
Vibe: Sunny Sunday session
Located smack bang in the heart of Albury town centre, you’ll find fresh from a new renovation – the Albion Hotel. Offering a mix for whatever mood you're in, ranging from classic pub-style counter meals in the bistro to tantalising cocktails, spritzes and a grazing menu that takes a relaxing Sunday session to another stratosphere. Of course, it wouldn’t be the perfect Sunday session without the mention of a bottomless brunch. The Albion offers the only bottomless brunch in Albury, so you can get your fill while listening to last night's spill!
Our pick: Spiced honey braised pork & Pure Pash cocktail.
The Criterion, Carrington NSW
Vibe: The true local vibe
The local is an institution of Australian culture, and there’s nothing more satisfying and grounding than having a fantastic feed and delicious drink with your family, friends or even other patrons at your local. The Criterion manages to keep the character and history of their establishment that the locals love and pair it with top-notch pub classic food and refreshing beverages. This place has encapsulated everything that you want in a true Aussie pub.
Our pick: Baja Fish Tacos & the house G&T.
Hopscotch, Southbank VIC
Vibe: Feeling adventurous
Sometimes we grow restless of the familiar and venture out beyond the horizon, not because we’re bored, but because we must know! Hopscotch – dubbed the urban beer bar, is a haven for the adventurous and for those who seek something different to enjoy – and enjoy they will. With over 36 beers on tap, the experts behind the bar are happy to help you find your new favourite brew or you can go it alone and navigate the plethora of choices.
Our pick: Easy, cheesy burger and ask the experts about the drink.
Harlow Bar, Richmond VIC
Vibe: Rooftop city views
Sit back and enjoy the incredible views of the sunny city skyline from the Harlow Bar rooftop in iconic publand, Richmond. Simply watch the world go by with friends, (even the fury kind are welcome in the beer garden,) and remember to bring the good vibes – it’s kind of a pub policy!
Our pick: Parmy (or parma) & a rosé.
College Lawn Hotel, Prahran VIC
Vibe: Chilled out Sunday session
Now, we know what you’re thinking. But trust us, Prahran isn’t just for posh people, okay? Nestled in the back streets you’ll find the College Lawn Hotel, an effortlessly chilled and epically cool establishment with an incredible beer garden. Come along for the iconic Sunday Sessions. Filled with cocktails, live tunes and good times.
Our pick: Maple roasted pumpkin falafel salad & Furphy.
Wallaby Hotel, Mudgeeraba QLD
Vibe: Classic Aussie pub
If it’s Aussie you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. The Wallaby is one of the oldest classic pubs on the Gold Coast and it’s easy to see why it's a favourite amongst locals and travellers alike. I mean – just look at it. Ain’t she a beauty? But, it’s not just about looks. The Wallaby is renowned as a place for cold beer, live rock, warm smiles and lasting memories. So pop in, and leave feeling more Aussie than ever before.
Our pick: Anything off the BBQ & the Wallaby Larger
The Wickham, Fortitude Valley QLD
Vibe: “Rainbow oasis”
The most important aspect of any Australian pub is the feeling of community. The Wickham, also known as the Rainbow Oasis, delivers that in spades. A staple and proud supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community since the 1970s, the pub is proud to be home of Big Gay Day, Brisbane’s largest LGBTQIA+ festival. If you miss the day, don’t stress. The Wickham has plenty of fun events happening throughout the week like drag races every Saturday, Thursday trivia and Friday live music just to name a few.
Our pick: Home-made chickpea hummus & a seasonal cocktail.
Regatta Hotel, Toowong QLD
Vibe: River views with a cold one
Sometimes, a pub becomes such a staple of the area that it’s hard to imagine life without it. That’s the case for the iconic Regatta Hotel in Brisbane. From the iconic multi-layered, art deco home away from home, to it being named the finishing line to the armada of boats that stop by for a refreshing drink and delicious bite to eat. There’s no place like it to watch the world float by with iconic river views.
Our pick: Prosciutto pizza & pink gin cocktail.
Robe Hotel, Robe SA
Vibe: Stop in for a drink, stay for the locals
As far as iconic country pubs go, The Robe Hotel is up there with a must try. There’s something different about the iconic country pub. Perhaps it’s the locals who love a chat – especially about the local footy team, the seaside views or the relaxed nature and live music. Whatever it is, combine all that with amazing seafood dishes, locally sourced meat and ice-cold drinks, it makes for the perfect place to sleep over if you’re up for an iconic Aussie road trip.
Our pick: Fish of the day & any of the local white wines.
Parkside Hotel, Parkside SA
Vibe: Local hub for the keen foodie
Of course, some locals change over time. The carpet makes way for floorboards, the menu becomes a touch more sophisticated and international beers sparkle on taps. The trick is to do it right, and that’s exactly what The Parkside in Adelaide has achieved. The Parkside is an elevated local since being renovated with a refined modern Australian pub menu, perfect for the local foodie. It doesn’t stray too far from its roots, remaining the perfect place for anyone looking for an ice-cold drink alongside great local produce with an unpretentious and great atmosphere. The schnitzels and parmys are a local favourite and well worth a try.
Our pick: Schnitzel with mushroom gravy & a Melbourne Bitter.
The Guildford Hotel, Guildford WA
Vibe: Nostalgic old charm
Sometimes, you stumble upon a pub so beautiful that it’s like stepping in a time machine. A trip back to the days of yesteryear. That’s exactly what it’s like heading to The Guildford Hotel. A gorgeous pub with iconic smoked meats which offer a different taste on iconic classics throughout the menu.
Our pick: Cheeseburger spring rolls & winter illusion cocktail.
Victoria Park Hotel, Victoria Park WA
Vibe: Unearth a hidden secret
Some locals make you work for it – you have to go out, find it and unearth the hidden secret. For those travellers lucky enough to find this gem, the Victoria Park Hotel is just that. With a blend of modern and heritage architecture, this local provides patrons with an iconic pub they won’t soon forget. The perfect place to grab your mates, enjoy an iced-cold drink, relax in the brand new beer garden and enjoy the best of live sports. Oh, and if you need a quick trim while you’re there, they’ve even got an in-house barber ready to keep you looking fresh.
Our pick: 1kg Margaret River Wagyu Beef with tiger prawns (to share!) & Popcorn Espresso martini.
Shenannigans, Darwin NT
Vibe: Luck of the Irish
An Irish pub in Darwin? Huh? It’s not what you think of straight away, but trust us on this - Shenannigans is well worth it. Enjoy classic Irish cuisine at a favourite for locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect place to park up at the bar, chat to the locals and watch the world go by. A must visit for anyone exploring everything that Darwin has to offer.
Our pick: Guinness & Beef Guinness pie.
