Melbourne Pubs

One of the most popular pastimes in Melbourne is heading to the pub. Melbourne Bars have developed in leaps and bounds over the last decade, but there has also been a development in the quintessential Australian pub too. Pubs are an integral part of the Melbourne bar industry and there is a wide and diverse range to choose from. There are pubs that cater to everyone’s needs from the ‘crusty old men’ pubs to the sleek, new corporate style pubs. Melbourne Pubs have undergone a massive transformation in the last few years and there has been a distinct move to the more ‘gastro’ style. There is something about the traditional pub that Australians just love to be part of – be it the relaxed atmosphere, friendly vibe or just the general lack of pretension – pubs are an important facet of the Melbourne bar scene. The following is a top 10 of the Best Melbourne Pubs you can find… Happy Drinking!!!

1. Napier Hotel – 210 Napier Street, Fitzroy
The Napier Hotel was first opened in 1866. The exact history and details of the pub are not easily found today, but historical significance is easily noticed when one visits the pub. Beers, bogan-burgers and bulls@#t. The Napier has it all in supersized abundance. Weddings and wakes, loves lost and found – here is a pub that has served as a meeting place and hideout for a generation of inner city drinkers and lives on to tell the tale.

2. Retreat Hotel – 430 Sydney Road, Brunswick
Young and trendy pub offering not only a grungy front bar but also the whole DJ and band area out the back on the weekends when things get hectic. Midweek meals are the order of the day, with decent servings cooked in a dedicated kitchen. Given its funky and unfussy nature, the Retreat Hotel pulls in patrons every day of the week - whether they’re for a chat or simply to read a book.

3. Hotel Max – 32 Commercial Road, Prahran
Husband and wife chefs Brendon Mitchell and Katie Krauss-Mitchell have made some changes to their charge, The Hotel Max. Prahran’s classic old world pub is attracting crowds that revel in the pleasures of passionately prepared food and quality wines. The Corner Cellar Bar is a fantastic place for a quick glass of wine with a friend, or a long lunch with an amazing wine list.

4. Nash Hotel – 344 Victoria Street, Richmond
The Nash, formerly The National is one of those last of the Mohicans owner/operator pubs, that, (and I need Tim Fletcher’s realtor smarts here), I think adds so much value to those nearby houses, whose inhabitants use their local as an extension of their living room. Simply it is a beauty. Its no frills, bit ragged around the edges front bar, discreet 40 seat bistro banging well priced pub grub in comfortable surroundings, wins you instantly.

5. Mitre Tavern – 5 Bank Place, Melbourne
Visit the oldest building in Melbourne with the largest beer-garden in the CBD and you will find in the heart of the city the wonderful food and genuine hospitality you would expect in a sleepy country town. Enjoy a drink and a meal in historical Bank Place, or venture upstairs to Mitre Steakhouse and Grill and experience what are known as the finest char-grilled steaks in Melbourne.

6. Hotel Lincoln – 91 Cardigan Street, Carlton
The Hotel Lincoln is quintessential Melbourne, blending history and tradition with all that is unique about the city’s modern lifestyle. Dating back to 1850 it has long been the meeting place for Melbournians from all walks of life, where labourers, office workers, politicians, business leaders, unionist and academics rub shoulders over convivial ale.

7. The Gem – 289 Wellington Street, Collingwood
Wonderful little pub that's full of clutter, and a shining example of how cosy some pubs can be. Imagine old wooden floorboards together with a curved handcrafted bar that's nice and low, giving a good overview of the whole area.The odd acoustic act provides entertainment during the busier times and the weekends provide for an electric atmosphere. An area behind the bar is popular with diners, as well as a back room that sits larger groups in a family style dinner table setting.

8. Richmond Club Hotel – 100 Swan Street, Richmond
Located in the hot spot of Swan Street, Richmond, its new interiors provide a sophisticated and contemporary space for relaxed business lunches, knock-off drinks or dinner with your belle or beau. It's a fairly versatile place with seating outside and inside, and caters for a similarly versatile crowd. Known to attract a sport focused crowd during the winter months.

9. Rose Hotel – 406 Napier Street, Fitzroy
Hidden away in the back streets, the Rose has long been a favourite of the locals. Sidle up to the bar and a conversation with the staff and locals will ensue covering topics from politics, the footy or the special of the night. There's plenty of room for everyone, but get in early as all the tables will usually be gone - however a rear dining area tends to take some of the load off the front rooms.

10. Village Belle Hotel - 202 Barkly Street, St Kilda
The Village Belle Hotel is a St Kilda icon. So deeply embedded in the local consciousness, the area surrounding this hotel (Acland Street) became known as the Village Belle Precinct, even officially recognised as such by the local council. The Village Belle Hotel has something to offer everyone. From the best-valued meals in town, to great live music in the Doulton Bar. Spend a sunny afternoon in the beer garden, or have a cold beer sitting in the Sports Bar. Big sporting event on? Watch it on one of the many plasma screens, or have a flutter in the TAB.

By: benwild

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