When it comes to the quintessential Australian experience, few venues encapsulate the spirit quite like the local pub. These havens of culinary delight not only serve as a gathering place for friends and family but also showcase the finest in Modern Australian cuisine. From sunny courtyards to rustic interiors, the pubs of Melbourne and Tasmania invite guests to indulge in gourmet dishes and boutique drinks. Prepare to embark on a tour of some of the finest establishments where the food is as captivating as the ambiance.
The Cricketers Port Melbourne - Port Melbourne, VIC
Discover an iconic local pub serving Modern Australian fare and boutique drinks at The Cricketers Port Melbourne on Cruikshank Street. Built in 1861, enjoy the atmosphere of the stunning all-weather courtyard, sit by the fireplace in the cosy brasserie or in the more formal dining room, with the same menu available wherever you choose to dine. Begin your culinary adventure with small plates like Cumberland sausage Scotch egg, truffle mayonnaise and petit herbs, or cheeseburger spring rolls with pickles, onion and spicy tomato ketchup. For the main, devour rigatoni pasta with 12-hour beef ragu, aged Parmesan and parsley, or crispy-skinned salmon with herb-crusted potatoes, broad beans, peas, balsamic and herb dressing. Sticky date pudding and ice cream make for a sweet finish.
Standout dishes here capture the essence of pub indulgence while elevating them to new levels. The small plates resonate with a thematic focus on sharing, making it the perfect way to start your meal. Moving onto main courses, the rigatoni with beef ragu emerges as a crowd favourite, the slow-cooked meat providing a richness that's hard to resist. Meanwhile, the salmon's crisp skin pairs beautifully with the freshness of seasonal greens, making for an ideal balance of flavours. Whether you’re a local or a newcomer, the Cricketers promises a memorable dining experience.
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The Clarendon Arms - Evandale, TAS
The Clarendon Arms in the leafy Tasmanian town of Evandale is reclaiming locals and visitors with its heritage-listed charm and lively atmosphere. A spacious bar area leads to private dining rooms, where guests can warm themselves beside a fireplace and gaze upon stained glass windows surrounded by wooden floors, dark walls and ambient lighting. Opt to gather with family and friends in the airy beer garden with live music on Sunday and deliberate over a menu created from locally sourced produce, alongside great share platters. Perhaps begin with sautéed scallops, Sicilian crumb and salsa verde before moving on to eye fillet steak with layered potatoes, asparagus and horseradish cream. Finish decadently with warm chocolate, orange and fig pudding and vanilla bean ice cream.
This welcoming venue offers a delightful nod to Tasmania's rich produce. The sautéed scallops are a standout starter, featuring carefully balanced flavours and textures that set the tone for a memorable meal. The eye fillet steak, renowned for its tenderness, is served with an artful presentation that demonstrates the kitchen’s attention to detail. Finally, the dessert of warm chocolate pudding delivers a delightful sweet finale, perfectly finishing off a truly exceptional pub experience.
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The Stag Public House - Adelaide CBD, SA
The Stag Public House on Rundle Street stands as a warm-hearted urban sanctuary in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, where classic pub charm intertwines with contemporary flair. Inside, richly grained timber and gleaming brass cast a nostalgic glow softened by lush greenery and gentle lighting. The menu embraces hearty, shareable dishes built around seasonal produce that are ideally matched by a creative drinks selection. The hum of low conversations and laughter forms the soundtrack as mismatched chairs gather close, plates arrive steaming and the mood feels effortlessly convivial a relaxed, unpretentious gathering place.
Signature dishes at The Stag highlight both tradition and innovation. Start your meal with prawn cocktail rolls, where the Mary Rose sauce juxtaposes beautifully with fresh lettuce, making for a classic that will delight diners. The lamb Merguez sausage is another highlight, offering a bold, savoury kick that pairs splendidly with velvety mashed potato, topped with a touch of gravy and chimichurri for zing. Here, conviviality reigns supreme, making it the ideal venue for a vibrant dining experience.
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North Port Hotel - Port Melbourne, VIC
Located on Evans Street in Port Melbourne, the North Port Hotel is a beloved local landmark where timeless charm meets modern Australian hospitality. With its beautifully restored heritage façade and warm, welcoming interior, this classic pub offers the perfect spot to relax over a hearty meal or a cold drink. The menu showcases elevated pub favourites crafted from fresh, local ingredients, alongside a curated selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Whether you’re gathering with friends in the bustling bar, enjoying a family meal in the dining room, or soaking up the sunshine in the outdoor courtyard, the North Port Hotel captures the true spirit of community and comfort in the heart of Port Melbourne.
Among its many culinary offerings, the North Port’s take on traditional pub fare shines through. Popular menu items include their hearty mains that celebrate local produce without pretension. Dive into dishes like the classic parma, which features tender chicken topped with homemade Napoli sauce, or the generously portioned lamb shanks served with creamy mash. Each plate embodies the essence of comfort food while ensuring quality and delight for discerning diners.
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Paragon Hotel - Mudgee, NSW
Nestled in the heart of Mudgee, the Paragon Hotel on Perry Street blends country charm with modern flair, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Its stylish bistro setting features exposed brick, warm timber accents and a buzzing courtyard perfect for relaxed dining. The menu showcases classic pub fare with a contemporary twist think crispy fried salt and pepper squid served with housemade mango mayo to start—before wrapping your hands around a Bushman’s burger with a beef patty, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, caramelised onion, egg, pineapple, beetroot and burger sauce. Steak lovers can indulge in Scotch fillet, topped with creamy garlic prawns, served with chips and slaw or opt for sticky pork ribs and rump steak with veggies and mash. Finish sweetly with sticky date pudding.
The Paragon sets itself apart with its commitment to freshness and local flavours. The crispy squid, complimentary to the refreshing mango mayo, is a perfect start to your meal. Moving to mains, the Bushman’s burger is an overwhelming delight, bursting with flavour and substance in every bite. The steak, expertly cooked and decadent with garlic prawns, caters beautifully to both comfort and gourmet sensibilities. The entire dining experience is capped off by the rich, luscious sticky date pudding, a genuinely indulgent treat that patrons crave.
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As we uncover these inviting pubs, it becomes evident that they offer not just excellent food and drink but also a sense of community and connection. Whether nestled in the heart of the city or out in serene suburbs, each venue boasts a distinct character that enhances the dining experience. So, gather your friends and family, settle in, and explore the culinary treasures awaiting at these iconic establishments.
