The term ‘watering hole’ in relation to a well-loved local pub gained widespread use in the 1960s and pertained to cosy cocktail lounges and swank nightclubs, where people could gather and mingle over drinks.
These days, it is used for favourite haunts such as neighbourhood taverns and hotels where everyone knows your name, the pub grub is always great and the beer ice cold. Here are five you need to try next time you say ’meet me at the watering hole’:
A Slice of England in Tasmania
Discover a slice of England in the heart of Launceston at Cock ‘n’ Bull British Pub on Wellington Street. This well-loved local watering hole is the place to head to cosy up by the fire in the upstairs dining area during chilly months, while downstairs is full of tradition with patterned carpet and wooden table settings setting the scene for family get-togethers over a classic pub menu.
Photo credit: Simon Lucas
Begin with bread hot from the oven, smothered with garlic and herb butter and melted cheese, before pub favourites such as beef and Guinness pie with carrot, onions, herbs, vegetables, mash and brown onion gravy.
Two-storey Pub with Verandah
Nestled in the heart of Wentworth, find the classic local watering hole the Captain Sturt Hotel on Adams Street. This two-storey pub with a verandah upstairs, beer garden out back and bar and bistro indoors is the place to head to refuel and recharge after a day spent exploring The Murray and its surrounds.
Join the buzz of lively conversation over a pot and parmy while listening to live music, or watch your favourite sport while warming yourself by the fire in chilly months while chowing down on dishes like crispy pork belly salad, on a bed of Asian salad and dressing.
Timeless Country Pub Experience
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Beacon Hills, the Pine Grove Hotel on Stoney Creek Road offers a timeless and authentic country pub experience. With roots dating back to the 1880s, this charming establishment has been rebuilt from the ashes of adversity, standing as a testament to resilience and community spirit.
The restaurant is a haven for foodies showcasing the region’s finest flavours whether enjoying a leisurely lunch or elegant dinner; expect a classic chicken parmy along with pasta dishes like pappardelle with prawns, scallops, chilli, tomato, basil, prawn bisque and garlic butter.
Good Food, Beer and Cheer
Rejoice with good food, good beer and lots of good cheer at Hop Temple, located at the rear of Armstrong Street North. Rally family and friends to venture down Ballarat’s iconic Hop laneway and revel alongside likeminded people, either inside the unpretentious, cavernous warehouse restaurant styled with concrete floors, wooden benches and tables; or outside whether the sun shines or not, with warming fires and umbrellas gearing towards casual dining.
Sedate a ravenous appetite with modern pub food designed to complement a lengthy beverage menu; perhaps devour nachos, with smoked pork, pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream, or a brisket burger with Hop sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickles and American cheese.
Indoor-outdoor Restaurant
Hearty country dishes and flavourful combinations await hungry Brisbane foodies at Samford Valley Hotel on Main Street in Samford Village. Escape to the rustic charm of this hotel where an indoor-outdoor restaurant, beer garden, multiple bars, gaming room, function and kids’ playground ensure there is something to keep everyone occupied.
From a menu supporting local suppliers, begin a memorable meal with kickin’ chicken wings and ranch dipping sauce, moving onto sticky ginger pork belly, served on creamy mash with broccolini and an Asian crunchy noodle salad on the side.
