Nothing beats a cold pint in a sun-drenched beer garden or a bustling brewery with a plate of top-notch food to match. Whether you’re after a laid-back local pub, a craft beer haven or a full-scale brewery experience, these venues serve up an excellent mix of drinks, atmosphere and exceptional eats. From slow-cooked beef cheeks to gourmet schnitzels and truffle burgers, here’s where to kick back with a cold one.
Expect first-class service with a smile and bistro fare with flair at The Star Hotel on Raymond Street in Sale. Built in 1861, this historic Gippsland pub holds a special place in the hearts of locals, offering a welcoming atmosphere for families, sports fans and anyone looking for a relaxed dining experience. With a children’s play area, family dining booths, a pool room and TAB facilities, there’s something for everyone. Pull up a stool at the front bar with a crisp beer in hand before heading to the bistro for a meal that satisfies.
Start your feast with the ever-popular pork dumplings, served with an Asian-style dipping sauce for a flavour-packed bite. For the main, the Thai red chicken curry steals the show, loaded with broccolini, zucchini, carrots, red onion and fried shallots, served alongside fragrant jasmine rice. If a sandwich is more your style, the Philly cheese steak is a decadent choice, packed with succulent beef and molten cheese. Pair it with the cocktail of the month, designed in-house by the talented bar team.
N17 Burger Co – Port Douglas, QLD
After a day of exploring Port Douglas, there’s no better place to refuel than N17 Burger Co on Macrossan Street. This beloved burger joint combines gourmet eats with a lively atmosphere, complete with a luxury sports bar featuring multiple big screens for catching the latest game. Open from morning until late, it’s a go-to spot for craft beer lovers and burger enthusiasts alike.
Start with a serving of fiery sriracha chilli chicken wings, cooled down with a creamy blue cheese sauce. Then, sink your teeth into the famous N17 Burger—a towering creation featuring a Black Angus beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, a fried egg, hickory-smoked bacon, red onion marmalade and N17’s signature burger sauce, all tucked into a glossy milk bun. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, the truffle burger is a must-try, with an Angus beef patty, Swiss cheese, lettuce, black truffle mayo and crispy crumbed mushrooms.
Noodledoof Brewing Co – Koroit, VIC
Beer lovers will find their paradise at Noodledoof Brewing Co on Commercial Road in Koroit. Named after the owners’ childhood nicknames, this rustic brewery and distillery is housed in a former mechanic’s workshop, bringing a raw, industrial charm to Great Ocean Road’s craft beer scene. On weekends, the space buzzes with locals and visitors sipping on house-brewed beers and spirits while enjoying top-tier pub fare.
The Australian Pale Ale is a standout, dry-hopped to perfection with HPA Eclipse, delivering bright citrus and tropical notes that pair beautifully with a Reuben sourdough sandwich—stacked with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and their special ‘Doof’ sauce. For something heartier, the Doof Stout Pie is a rich and comforting choice, featuring slow-braised diced beef steak infused with Doof Stout, onions, garlic and herbs, all encased in buttery shortcrust pastry and served with chips and tomato relish.
Set among the picturesque surrounds of Sale’s Botanical Gardens and Lake Guthridge, Lakeside Club offers the perfect blend of casual drinks, great food and a relaxed outdoor setting. With a dedicated play area for the kids and an inviting bar for the adults, this venue is a local favourite for social gatherings and leisurely afternoons. Take a seat outside, enjoy a game of barefoot bowls and sip on an ice-cold beer before heading inside for a satisfying meal.
For starters, the calamari and prawn twisters with chilli lime aioli are a crowd-pleaser. When it comes to mains, the gourmet schnitzels are the star attraction—especially the Lakeside Schnitzel, topped with crispy bacon, tiger prawns and creamy garlic sauce, served with a side of golden chips and fresh salad. If you’ve got room for dessert, don’t pass up the classic sticky date pudding, drenched in warm caramel sauce and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Jamieson Brewery & Grill – Jamieson, VIC
Perched on the banks of the Goulburn River, Jamieson Brewery & Grill has been crafting top-notch beers for over half a century. One of Victoria’s pioneering microbreweries, this scenic spot combines award-winning ales with warm country hospitality. A family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great choice for all ages, with play equipment in the gardens and a dedicated kids’ zone in the restaurant.
Kick things off with a plate of panko-crumbed calamari, perfectly crisp and served with tartar sauce. If you’re in the mood for something substantial, the slow-cooked BBQ and chilli ribs are a must—tender, smoky and slathered in a housemade Jack Daniels sauce, served alongside maple slaw and chips. If you prefer something a little different, the lamb pizza is a flavour-packed option, topped with Napoli sauce, spinach, feta, onion, capsicum, cheese and a generous drizzle of tzatziki.
Whether you’re after a boutique brewery experience, a sports bar with top-tier burgers or a scenic beer garden with hearty pub fare, these venues have you covered. With expertly crafted beers and dishes to match, there’s no better way to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or a lively evening. So, where will your next pint be?
