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SUMMER 2014-2015

WHERE TO GO FOR THE BEST PUB DINING THIS SUMMER

EAT/DRINK

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Whether it’s one of those perfect bright days hovering around 30 degrees with an occasional light breeze, or a steamy and overcast one with a cool change forecast for the evening, or even the second or third day into a balmy heatwave, rest assured that Melbourne pubs are ready for you to walk through their doors (and often straight out the back door into the courtyard/beer garden).

Everyone’s familiar with the ritual of grabbing a bite at Northcote Social Club or the Corner before hitting the band room for a gig. The first time you order

a $4 pizza and a frosty pint at The Penny Black, Bimbo Deluxe or Lucky Coq is essentially a rite of passage. And do you remember the first time you saw the size of the parma at The Cornish Arms?

Feel like dressing up? Put a bit of speakeasy and ‘20s glam spark into your night by heading to Father’s Office. Wanna catch some rays? Transport Public Bar has not one but four beer gardens where you can sun yourself. If you’re just loving living life in Melbourne, why not celebrate that with some Australiana-influenced food (Vegemite’s

definitely an ingredient) at The Shaw Davey Slum? Beer lovers are going to ensure the 12 taps will be constantly flowing at The Alehouse Project.

Sharing plates of delicious grub (or hogging one all to yourself) with a fruity cocktail concoction, bottle of crisp cider or beer, or glass of vino in hand, while basking in glorious sunshine or cooling down in a shady spot outdoors – is there any better way to spend a summer’s day? We’ve made it easy for you to find the right kind of places to do just that.

It’s the time of year where chances are you’ll lose hours in a beer garden laughing, eating and drinking with friends.

Melbourne

Publisher Street Press Australia Pty Ltd | Managing Editor Andrew Mast | Editors Cassandra Fumi | Stephanie Liew | Photographers Holly Engelhardt | Averie Harvey | Aimee Catt | Markus Ravik | Issac Entry | Jodie Downie | Jessica Apap | Words Stephanie Liew | Hannah Story | Sarah Barratt | Erika Donald | Taylor Yates | Evan Young | Michael Smith | Design Brendon Wellwood | Julian De Bono Advertising Oliver Raggatt | Tim Wessling | Matthew Feltham | James Redshaw | James Seeney | Juliet Brooks | Madeleine Budd | Cover Image Observer Hotel - The Burger Joint [Averie Harvey] Contact Us Tel: 03 9421 4499 | info@themusic.com.au | www.themusic.com.au | Level 1, 221 Kerr St, Fitzroy, VIC, 2065 | Locked Bag 2001, Clifton Hill, VIC, 3068

The Robert Burns Hotel. PIC: Holly Engelhardt

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BAR SIDE

Fall back into the 1960s on the rooftop of The Shaw Davey Slum with a candy bar style cocktail and food that showcases Australia’s best.

Standing where Pugg Mahones used to be in Carlton, the Slum aims to transport people back to the golden era of the ‘60s with all manner of colourful wallpaper under a glass rooftop. Either watch the rain fall on it or wait until they open the roof completely for summer. The clientele ranges from students and local residents of Carlton to corporates, depending on the day and time.

Every menu item has a variation that makes it current yet traditionally Australian. There’s bangers and mash, surf ‘n’ turf, fish and chips and believe it or not, Vegemite salt calamari. Keeping it local yet innovative, the parma is crumbed in Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, covered in house-made Napoli sauce and topped with both gruyere and mozzarella. The Beef & Honey Works Burger is another stand out: 180s grams of Black Angus beef patty marinated with Australian honey, topped with fried egg, fresh pineapple, lettuce, tomato, cheese, beetroot chutney,

THE SHAW DAVEY SLUM

OUR DEAL $10 pub grub meals – Sunday through Wednesday. $10 for some selected meals all day every day.

171-175 ELGIN STREET, CARLTON(03) 9079 2121THESHAWDAVEYSLUM.COM.AU$$$$

bacon, in a toasted brioche bun, served with fries and salad, and nods to Australiana with vegemite mayo and BBQ sauce.

At the other end of the spectrum they’ve got a zucchini and macadamia burger, whole crumbed camembert, pulled pork boards, buffalo wings and stuffed field mushrooms. If you’re still hungry, they also have an extensive fries list: sweet potato, polenta or shoestring.

As it gets warmer, look for cocktails like the Vodka Raspberry: vanilla vodka, lime juice, sparkling wine and raspberry syrup made in-house. Other cocktails fall within a 1960s milk bar style and cocktail jug specials come and go at $20. If you’re more

a beer and cider fan, highlights on tap are Cockatoo Cider, Tiger, 3 Ravens American Amber Ale and Monteiths Golden Lager. Wines by the bottle range reasonably from $20-40, relying mostly on showcasing Australia and New Zealand’s best.

FUN FACTThe oxymoronic name ‘Shaw Davey Slum’ came from a report filed by two commissioners named Shaw and Davey in 1958 about Carlton, in which they made recommendations to demolish areas they deemed ‘slums’.

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With hours from midday ‘til late,a prime spot on Sydney Road and a 40-strong courtyard, it’s no wonder why the Cornish is popular with the summer crowd.

The Cornish strives to perfect the traditional pub menu and to diversify it with items like their award-winning vegan parma, which is now enjoyed by a unique mix of Brunswick veterans and a younger crowd. Vegetarians, vegans and celiacs are all covered here as well as pub grub purists. For traditional pub grubbers, try the succulent lemon myrtle and sage crumbed pork rib eye, served with potato gratin, greens and mustard sauce. For the vegans, take your pick from seven mains, including the vegan souvlaki: spiced duck and chicken seitan, with mixed salad, wrapped up with special garlic sauce and chilli, served with chips and salad.

The Cornish’s renovated courtyard is a perfect place to lounge in the sun, perhaps with a Trumpeters Alcoholic Iced Tea in hand, poured from the carafe garnished with ice and lemon. Beer highlights include Stone & Wood or Boatrocker Smash; fresh, zesty and crisp.

With live music happening Friday through Sunday, usually free of charge, and an Open Mic night on Mondays, the Cornish provides an afternoon sanctuary to watch the sunset roll in off Sydney Road.

FUN FACTHistorically, this venue was one of Melbourne’s prime drinking holes for gold diggers on their way to the mines. It then became a highlight of the grunge and punk scenes, before becoming the laidback pub we know and love.

OUR DEAL Daily deals. Our picks are Monday: $11 hot dogs and Sunday: $13 parmas.

163A SYDNEY ROAD, BRUNSWICK(03) 9380 8383CORNISHARMS.COM.AU$ $ $ $

CORNISH ARMS HOTEL

Drink it black or white.

www.zebracoffee.com.au

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BAR SIDE

With a spectacular wrap aroundbalcony that overlooks the bustling Swanson Street and the tranquil gardens of the StateLibrary, there is plenty of room for sampling the vast array of drink and food on offer at Father’s Office this summer.

With plenty of vintage décor, Father’s Office is styled after a 1920s alcohol US prohibition-era speakeasy bar, offering a tranquil and nostalgic respite from the modern, restless city that is Melbourne. The lush dining room with tin ceiling, custom-made copper beer tap over the industrial-style bar, period mosaics, gangster wall, decanter lighting and aptly dressed employees encapsulate

FATHER’S OFFICE

OUR DEAL

The corporate lunch menu

features a wide selection

of meals for $15 every day

from 11am–3pm; as does

the “Bonnie and Clyde”

pub grub after 5pm on

Monday and Tuesdays.249 LITTLE LONSDALE STREET, MELBOURNE (03) 9662 3798FATHERSOFFICE.COM.AU$$$$

the era of underground speakeasy bars, transporting you to a bygone era which almost challenges its location in the middle of the city (in the 21st century, no less).

The food on offer is themed similarly to match its surroundings: old, classic and American. The kitchen offers patrons Americana a la carte made with high quality local produce and premium meat and seafood cuts. Their wide selection of burgers, stacked high to their chandelier-occupied roof with first class, organic ingredients are particularly popular with regulars, with favourites including the fried chicken burger and the “Man burger” – featuring a stomach churning four slices of Swiss cheese!

The drinks also have an antiquated feel and aura about them, including a large range of whiskey and rum to mirror the underground 1920s, complemented with tap craft beers from local micro-brewers. A brand new range of cocktails have also arrived just in time for summer, and while they’re all as equally refreshing as one another, the Cupcake is the Fathers Office’s standout drink.

Being in the CBD Father’s Office attracts and welcome a varied crowd with open arms, and won the Best Themed Bar prize at the 2013 and 2014 Australian Hotels Association awards.

FUN FACTYou’re also encouraged to dress the part as patrons, with 1920s headwear and jewellery, dress shorts and bowler and trilby hats all cherished by staff and patrons alike. While doing this is not compulsory or necessary, you should still avoid wearing ugg boots and thongs. After all, where’s the fun in that?

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BAR SIDE

Hit the beer garden decks at Northcote Social Club to make the most of the summer heat, or chill in the air-conditioned front bar to escape it.

And then, if you stay long enough, you can catch a band (since they started doing live music in 2005, they’ve hosted almost 3000 shows). The crowd at the venue will likely depend on who’s playing that night, but you’ll see an eclectic mix of local Northerners, live music lovers, sports nuts, community groups, blue collar, white collar, families – people looking for a drink, a feed and a good time.

It’s all about the classics at Northcote Social Club, with frosty pints and jugs of beer and cider constantly being delivered to thirsty punters. Want something else to go with dinner? There’s wine by the glass; and it won’t make your wallet sad, either. In terms of food, there’s a mix of pub

classics with a fresh take and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, strong vegetarian influences, changing specials and a few options that nod to current food trends. On the weekends you might see the staff bring out the spit roast for a bit of food theatre; you know, wrapping hotdogs in bacon. And if you take spicy buffalo wings seriously, you’ll want the blue cheese dipping sauce with it.

FUN FACTThe Northcote Social Club used to be known as the Commercial Hotel, and is one of the oldest continuously run pubs in the area. Established in 1854, in 1891 it was the meeting place of the Trades Hall Progressive Political League which played a part in the formation of the ALP.

301 HIGH STREET,NORTHCOTE (03) 9489 3917NORTHCOTESOCIALCLUB.COM$ $ $ $

NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB

BAR SIDE

If you believe that variety is the spice of life, then boy, do we have the place for you.

Established in the 1960s as Hotel Central, it was renamed Half Moon about a decade ago; the bar has recently undergone a revamp, and everything about it screams “all of the possibilities!”. With a total of six stunning spaces to choose from, all of which are interconnected, you can hang out indoors or venture outside as frequently as you want.

But it’s not just versatile in the way of design – they’ve got nine menu categories to suit almost all tastes, from small share plates such as the garlic chilli prawns with tomato and white wine butter sauce, to your pub classics like their colonial pale ale-battered fish and chips. With a range like this, you’ll feel a bit like a kid in a candy store – but swap the candy for good quality, fresh seasonal produce.

On Fridays they have two-for-one cocktails in the Henry Room, as well

HALF MOON

120 CHURCH STREET,BRIGHTON(03) 9591 0611HALFMOON.COM.AU$ $ $ $

as a Paper Scissors Rock competition – basically, you play against the bartender, and if you win, you get a free drink – which gets a double thumbs up from us.

Running with the theme for free drinks, Half Moon have also got an iPhone app that you can accumulate points on – and it’s as simple as just checking in!

FUN FACT

Half Moon, formerly known as Molina’s, developed Melbourne’s first Parmigiana by Lou Molina.

OUR DEAL

Nightly $15 dishes of the day rotate, ranging from potted pie on Mondays, tacos on Tuesdays, Wednesday is steak night, you can get a parma on Thursdays, chorizo linguine on Fridays, chicken salad on Saturdays, and sliders for your Sunday session.

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What’s better than a beer garden in summer? Four beer gardens – that’s what!

Transport Public Bar ups the ante with access to your choice of outdoor space – two of the four beer gardens overlook the Yarra River, and there’s an outdoor TV so you never have to miss any of those sporting moments. Apart from that, the Fed Square location gives patrons the opportunity to marvel at the picturesque surrounds or sit back and relax while watching the hustle and bustle of the CBD. The great spot also provides a good meeting place after work, or to begin a big night out.

English-born chef Richard Hall brings a unique style to the Transport kitchen; he’s influenced by traditional pub food but

TRANSPORT PUBLIC BAR

OUR DEAL Everything on the menu is under $20! Transport also offers $10 snack boxes – an affordable lunch option available Monday to Friday from 11am to 5pm.

GROUND FLOOR, TRANSPORT HOTEL, FEDERATION SQUARE,MELBOURNE | (03) 9654 8808TRANSPORTPUBLICBAR.COM.AU$$$$

is also influenced by Asian flavours. The result is a diverse menu – you’ve always got something for when you’re feeling like a classic pub meal as well as other options if you’re feeling a little more adventurous.

Some of the classics include the Angus steak sandwich, shareable nachos or zingy salt and pepper calamari. For something a little different, try the Malaysian fried chicken, or the ricotta and spinach burger with chilli jam. The ever-changing menu is also child-friendly, featuring a ‘Just For Kids’ section.

Feeling in the mood for a craft beer? Or not really sure what you feel like? The friendly staff can advise you on which to pick from their extensive beer list comprised of 60 beers and ciders – including locals as well as those from around the world. If you feel up to it, peruse through the long list of lagers, pilsners, amber ales and dark ales. And then maybe head on over to the ping pong table to test your skills!

If you’ve got a special event in mind, or you’re just planning on heading to Transport after work, you can now reserve a VIP space. Transport also provides a supply of diverse music – various DJs as well as Live Sunday Sessions featuring a vast array of genres.

Drop in for some New Year’s Eve celebrations. This venue is sure to be the centre of the action on the night, and is a great place to watch the fireworks.

FUN FACTThe beer pong tournaments have been known to become very fierce and competitive.

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Nestled in the heart of Richmondand in close proximity to the MCG, Precinct Hotel is a well respected venue attracting sports fans, business clients and live music faithfuls.

Catering for a versatile range of occasions, the Precinct Hotel offers a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere, whether you’re after intimate dining, a place to watch the game or a spot to meet friends. The Precinct has a huge selection of outdoor options to meet your summer needs including one courtyard with a fully retractable roof, making it perfect for this time of year. Originally established in 1926, the venue will be transformed into a futuristic jungle-themed oasis for New Year’s Eve.

From fresh salads and roast chickens to classic pub fare such as parma and steak, there is something to satisfy your appetite – from fresh and light options to something heartier. The venue’s special summer menu focuses on

fresh local-sourced food where possible, with a large variety of dishes available including pulled beef burgers with housemade tomato relish; potato gnocchi with asparagus, zucchini, pancetta and parmesan; and Atlantic salmon fillet with herb salad and white anchovies. The extensive wine list is specifically designed with the menu in mind, however nearly all on the list can also be enjoyed on its own. Along with the wine, the constantly flowing cold craft ciders, beers and homemade mojitos provide the Precinct with ample options to choose from this summer.

FUN FACTThe Cape Grim Beef used at the Precinct Hotel is 100% grass-fed, completely free of hormones and consistently at the top of 18 MSA grades.

OUR DEAL Want a free drink from the Precinct? Head to their website and click on ‘free drink offer’, sign up, and you’ll get a voucher for one complimentary drink!

60 SWAN STREET, RICHMOND(03) 9429 1633 PRECINCTHOTEL.COM.AU $ $ $ $

PRECINCT HOTEL

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Taxi Kitchen is all about fun dining – not fine dining.

Nestled in Federation Square, Taxi Kitchen boasts views of all the most tourist-friendly places in Melbourne – think Arts Precinct, the Yarra River, St Paul’s Cathedral. However, far from being just a tourist spot, this rustic yet modern restaurant (that was on Masterchef one time – a spot of trivia for you) attracts people from all over town from foodies to theatre-goers alike.

The menu has been created by executive chef Tony Twitchett, focusing on share dishes and hearty, plentiful meals. In the summer, they’re all about seafood and seasonal produce, some of which they grow themselves – sustainability is important at Taxi Kitchen, as is sharing – with the majority of their

TAXI KITCHEN

OUR DEAL

For $55 you can get a

three-course ‘showbiz

menu’, consisting of

three set courses, if you

arrive between 5–7pm.

NYE will host a James

Bond-themed event.

LEVEL 1, TRANSPORT HOTEL, FEDERATION SQUARE, MELBOURNE | (03) 9654 8808TAXIKITCHEN.COM.AU$$$$

grub in the form of tapas-esque sharing plates, rather than set meals.

Never fear if you’re a feeling hungry though; they do have a large plates section on the menu, with ten options including a crispy skin Huon salmon with fennel, shallot salad and black garlic dressing; a baked whole barramundi with a caramelised lemon and herb salad; and Crystal Bay prawns with chilli, garlic, parsley and angel hair pasta.

If you’re feeling like a summery alcoholic beverage, the bar staff happily make you a Callipo – a Pampero Blanco Rum cocktail with elderflower syrup, lime juice, cloudy apple and fresh mint. But if cocktails aren’t really your style, there’s a bunch of handpicked European wines that will impress any wine enthusiast. For weekday lunches, they do a $28 Wagyu and wine deal, and if you just wanna try as many things as you can, there’s also an $85 tasting menu that they describe as “a culinary journey over six courses”.

When it’s time for dessert to roll around, this is where you can tell Taxi Kitchen has its roots in fine dining – with options such as the mouth watering passionfruit soufflé with caramelised white chocolate centre and banana ice-cream, or the dark chocolate and tonka bean mousse with pistachio nut and cherry crumble. If you want something savoury, they also offer a cheese, fruit, bread and lavosh plate.

FUN FACTExecutive chef Tony Twitchett and head chef Sam Forte are actually pretty much best buds – Sam was best man at Tony’s wedding!

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Operating as a pub since 1871 and as a live music venue since the 1940s, Richmond’s iconic Corner Hotel has a long history as part of the Melbourne pub scene.

While it is well known for its large band room which has housed countless local and international acts over the years, the Corner’s Rooftop Beer Garden is an underrated summer attraction. Large bi-fold glass doors open the indoor space to the outdoors to create a huge sun-kissed seated area, making it perfect for those heading downstairs for a gig, to sporting events and arena shows down the road, or anyone who just wants some decent pub grub to enjoy. It’s almost too easy to sit back at the Corner this summer with a cold pint of beer or a large jugs of Pimms with fresh fruit and mint amongst the beer garden’s sun, views of the city and greenery.

CORNER HOTEL

57 SWAN STREET,RICHMOND(03) 9427 9198 CORNERHOTEL.COM$ $ $ $

Under new head chef Shannon Ryce, the freshest and best seasonal produce will be served to customers this summer. The fresh fish of the day is a perfect addition to the rotating lunch and dinner specials, while the roast beetroot and asparagus salad and spring lamb salad with tabouli provides the menu with further refinement. With a wine list that complements the menu and the mighty CUB beers and Mountain Goat favourites Steam Ale and Hightail Ale on tap, you’re laughing.

FUN FACTRooftop Trivia is legendary at the Corner, with the best of pop culture counsel served up every Wednesday night from 7.30pm.

OUR DEALEvery Sunday over summer the Corner’s ‘Summer Session’ will provide patrons the perfect way to end the week with live music, drink specials and a big spit roast.

BAR SIDE

Lamaro’s looks out over the leafy streets of South Melbourne and is privy to seeing a diverse crowd come through the doors.

The sleek, modern design and separate bar and dining areas cater to all tastes and budgets.

Head chef Javier Perez-Gonzalez brings a Mediterranean and Spanish flair to the kitchen alongside sous-chef Arminder Singh, who brings an Indian influence. Try natural oysters with lemon; or seafood linguine with vongole, spanner crab, prawns, tomato, chilli and lemon. The staple pub items like the famous veal schnitzel crumbed with lemon and parmesan, hot mustard coleslaw and sauce diable are here to stay. The dessert

LAMARO’S BAR AND DINING ROOM

273-279 CECIL STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE(03) 9690 3737LAMAROS.COM.AU$ $ $ $

menu includes decadent options like the chocolate fondant with pistachio crème, chocolate soil and nougat ice cream.

On tap, Lamaro’s has 2 Brothers, Trumer Pils, Warsteiner, Asahi, Colonial Kolsch, and some Margaret River boutique beers. Over summer be sure to try one of twelve single malt whiskeys or the Lamaro’s cocktail with gin, mint and lime. The wine list is twenty pages long, so it’s safe to say they’ll have what you want and need.

FUN FACT

The name and design originated with Pam Lamaro, who transformed what used

to be the Bayview Hotel into the sleek dining experience that is Lamaro’s today.

OUR DEALFrom Monday through to Saturday you can enjoy a two-course set menu for lunch, served with a Colonial beer or glass of wine, for $35.

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LUCKY COQ

OUR DEAL

$4 pizzas, weekdays

11.30am–4pm; Monday–

Thursday 7–11pm;

Friday–Saturday 7–9pm;

Sunday all day until 11pm.

On NYE, the Coq hosts a

‘No Frills’ party: no entry

fee and heaps on offer.

179 CHAPEL STREET,WINDSOR(03) 9525 1288LUCKYCOQ.COM.AU$$$$

BAR SIDE

Lucky Coq shares the same relaxed setting as its affiliate Bimbo Deluxe in Fitzroy.

Both feature a generous amount of eccentrically decorated outdoor space that allows you to sip your beer with sun on your face and the smell of freshly cooking pizza wafting out from the kitchen.

With $4 pizza having somewhat of a cult following at both venues, the crowd varies from 18-year-olds to families and grandparents. All pizzas are made to order with vegan, seafood and vegetarian options available. A top vegetarian choice would be the Poncho: tomato, beans, corn chips, jalapeños, sour cream, spring onions, Spanish onion and mozzarella – it’s like the lovechild of a pizza and nachos. For meat eaters, the Agnello gives you tomato, Parmesan, mozzarella, spiced lamb, rocket, pine nuts and sultanas. Oh, and you can get sweet dessert pizzas for $6, such as the dark Belgian Chocolate. Save some room for those.

Head chef Arun Rai is putting together “A little something extra” menu, which should be ready for summer. A lamb burger,

Caeser salad and fried chicken will be amongst the new items. There are also salads and hot dogs to choose from.

Heading into summer, the extensive coqtail menu that features house-infused vodka can’t be overlooked. Try the Wham Jug: lychee vodka, passionfruit vodka, apple cider, fresh orange and pink grapefruit juice. There are numerous beers on tap as well as bottled beers and ciders. The favourite at the moment is the Grizz American style Amber Ale, which is brewed by 2 Brothers in Moorabbin. Also on tap they have Mountain Goat Summer or Hightail Ales, Stone & Wood

Pacific Ale from Byron Bay, Asahi, or Bubvar from the Czech Republic just to name a few. With an extensive list of wines, sparkling wines, single malts and anything in between, Lucky Coq will cater to all tastes and budgets.

FUN FACTYou may wonder where this name came from. The business brains behind Bimbo Deluxe, Naked For Satan and the Provincial, Max Fink and Eddie Crupi joined together in the Chinese Year of the Rooster (2006), hence Lucky Coq.

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BAR SIDE

Looking past the traditional pub exterior and Scottish title, you’ll find a charming atmosphere rich in Spanish culture.

The Robert Burns Hotel – the name and the exterior doesn’t really scream Spanish culture. But on entering, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The traditional 1860s hotel was taken over by the Spanish-born Urbano Gutierrez in 1984 who introduced the flavours of Spain to this once-conventional pub.

Celebrate summer by sampling some dishes from the Galicia region that showcase the best of the sea, combined with summery salads and classic house-made chorizo or oysters with gazpacho.

THE ROBERT BURNS HOTEL

376 SMITH STREET,COLLINGWOOD (03) 9417 2233ROBERTBURNSHOTEL.COM.AU$ $ $ $

To complement the meals, The Robert Burns Hotel provides an extensive wine list. If wine’s not your thing, there’s always Spanish cider or beer – Estrella is always on tap, and the ever-popular sangria or a sweet vermouth over ice is always an option.

Chef Marc Albalate has lived in many cities in Spain and Europe and he brings his passion for Spanish cuisine and dedication to his work to create the most authentic and traditional food alongside his team.

FUN FACT

NYE brings in a little Spanish culture in the form of lucky grapes. This tradition

involves eating a grape on each toll of the bell at midnight – it’s said to bring a year of luck and prosperity.

OUR DEALLunch time means a fantastic $12 per plate menu – or $15 with a drink!

BAR SIDE

The Darcy family bring their love of good food and wine to the thriving promenadeon the Yarra’s edge.

With interior inspired by the 1920s industrial flair of polished brass, exposed beams and inspired heritage features, Melbourne Public celebrates the best of Melbourne’s past and present.

There are plenty of special wines and cold craft ciders and beers to choose from, while jugs containing Pimm’s, ginger ale, lemonade, mint leaves with zesty fruit slices are designed for sharing in the sunlight. With a retractable roof that is able to alter the space depending on the weather and a large TV screen, the ground floor terrace with city and river backdrop views in particular is the perfect outdoor space for summer.

Melbourne Public has a regular pub grub menu, and also a restaurant-style menu for something a little more refined,

with the Moroccan lamb cutlets, artisan pork and veal sausages, and Niçoise salad being particular highlights.

FUN FACTMelbourne Public has a large range of patrons, from businessmen and women ducking in for a quick lunch or after work drinks, to the tired shoppers taking a break from nearby South Wharf DFO.

OUR DEALAt only $14, the warm chocolate fudge brownie with cherry ice cream, pecans and salted caramel or the wide selection of ice creams on offer are not to be sniffed at – unless you’re breathing in the aroma before taking a bite!

11 DUKES WALK, SOUTH WHARF(03) 9268 7600 MELBOURNEPUBLIC.COM.AU $ $ $ $

MELBOURNE PUBLIC

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The Fitzroy institution that is Bimbo Deluxe is going on 14 years this year.

They’re famous not only for their $4 pizzas, but for their impressive house-infused vodka, extensive beer and wine spread and the gigantic Kewpie doll out front. As well as their huge range of pizzas (we count more than 20 options!), Bimbo’s are serving up summer salads and hotdogs, too.

No doubt many locals have known many a night sitting on the rooftop, surrounded by Moroccan lanterns to enjoy Belgian chocolate dessert pizza and beer over summer. Take a seat in an armchair in the cool, dimly lit lounge with shellac walls, or be reminded of your grandma’s house when you venture into the Cafe Bimbo area, with its mismatched chairs, Formica tables and linoleum floors.

The beer selection includes old favourites from our own backyard as well as around the world: Two Birds Golden

BIMBO DELUXE

376 BRUNSWICK STREET,FITZROY(03) 9419 8600BIMBODELUXE.COM.AU$ $ $ $

Ale, 2 Brothers, Estrella Dam, Brooklyn Lager, Weihenstephaner Hefeweisen, Mountain Goat, Colonial Brewing Co and Stone & Wood. As it heads into summer, take advantage of the house-infused vodkas; lychee infused vodka with ginger ale and a dash of fresh lime juice is sure to hit the spot.

FUN FACT

The design of Bimbo Deluxe is the most fun part. You may feel as if you’ve entered a sinister carnival. There are doors that lead to nowhere, a dome room, shoes stuck to the ceiling and little dolls scattered around.

OUR DEAL$4 pizzas a lot of the time! From 12–4pm Mon–Fri; 7–11pm Mon–Thu; 7–9pm Fri–Sat; all day Sunday. Every month the staff creates one pizza for $5, all day, every day.

BAR SIDE

The atmosphere is ‘lazy weekend’, all days of the week. The crowd drawn in by The Penny Black is varied but always relaxed.

With plenty of tables and chairs out the front, you can watch all manner of Sydney Road locals walk by. There’s a band room with music on most weekends that is always free, and a Royale Beer Garden out back complete with astro-turf in summer. The beer garden is the largest section by far, which will please many, no doubt. DJs spin music in the beer garden most weekends and Thursdays as you sit in comfortable wooden booths under shade.

The menu is modern Australian pub style, with head chef Dion creating pub classics and home-style dinners like the chicken parma, roast beef, steaks and burgers. For vegetarians try the vegetarian burger, and for the snackers, there is $4 pizza throughout the week. Pizza is by far the most popular item on the menu, and with good reason. A crowd favourite is The Penny’s Banger: a meat lover’s, sausage-style pizza.

On tap there is an extensive range of boutique beers and ciders and the same goes for the list of wines. There will be something for everyone, basically! Heading into the summer months, The Penny Black puts on a range of cocktail jugs that are light, fruity and suitable to share in hot weather. Just what you want and need.

FUN FACTThe Penny Black was formerly Brunswick GPO, built in 1909, which is where the beautiful heritage listed brick façade comes from.

OUR DEAL$4 pizzas all day Mon–Thurs. Free movie night every Tuesday – free entry, free popcorn and table service. $12 dinners: steak on Wednesdays, burgers on Thursdays and roast on Sundays.

420 SYDNEY ROAD,BRUNSWICK(03) 9380 8667THEPENNYBLACK.COM.AU$ $ $ $

THE PENNY BLACK

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This place is a mecca for beer nerds and beer lovers alike.

It has a modern yet comfortable beer hall vibe with exposed brick and long-reclaimed wooden tables to accommodate larger groups settling in for the long haul. Out the back there is a tree-filled beer garden to please afternoon drinkers in the summer.

The head chef Patrick Bender trained in Switzerland and France and brings this expertise back, creating standout items including crispy meatballs with olives and horseradish mayo to share; the house-smoked chicken breast with baby spinach, pine nuts and manchego shavings; and the wagyu beef burger on brioche with sweet onion, homemade pickle, tomato, cheddar and fries. Don’t miss the apple cider doughnuts with star anise syrup for dessert either.

The Alehouse’s passion is catering to beer purists and fanatics, but they also strive to make their knowledge and selection

accessible to those who are less in the know and want to learn more. There are 12 rotating taps in the Alehouse: they currently serve Moo Brew varieties, St. Ronan’s Cider, Brooklyn Brewery and three Garage Project beers from New Zealand. Boutique wine and spirits are on offer as well as more flavoursome ales, ciders and the odd sour or fruit beer – crisp beers and ciders complement the warmer weather perfectly.

FUN FACTThe Alehouse used to be known as the Comfortable Chair, which was a classy student dive bar. The Alehouse stripped everything back and brought the craft beer in.

98-100 LYGON STREET,BRUNSWICK EAST(03) 9387 1218THEALEHOUSEPROJECT.COM.AU$ $ $ $

THE ALEHOUSE PROJECT

BAR SIDE

With links to Melbourne’s founders, heroes and drinkers, Young And Jackson’s has been one of Melbourne’s pubs of choice since 1861.

With so much history that it could be taught in schools, and located in the heart of Melbourne, the heritage icon epitomises pub grub with classic fare such as mini-burgers, chicken parmas and the good old steak sandwich. And for those who might be after a bit more flair, the casual dining restaurant upstairs provides a more modern experience with their tomato and maple syrup-glazed pork loins and special grilled Atlantic salmon. NYE punters can expect a ticketed five-course degustation dinner for $160 and a cocktail-style event for $110.

YOUNG AND JACK-SON’S

CNR SWANSTON & FLINDERS ST, MELBOURNE(03) 9650 3884YOUNGANDJACKSONS.COM.AU $ $ $ $

There is plenty to drink at Young And Jackson’s too. While there are 28 beers on tap throughout the hotel, the real summer attraction lies above the city pub façade in their Rooftop Cider Bar. Quirky and unexpected, with a grass floor and vertical garden, this hidden gem is the perfect space to settle in for an afternoon of relaxed socialising. There are seven unique ciders on tap while their summer cider spiders, slushies and sangrias always prove to be a big hit.

OUR DEALThe everyday $32 lunch is a staple of the Young And Jackson’s experience comprising of a main meal, wine/beer/tea/coffee and a special dessert.

FUN FACTLocated inside the pub is Chloe’s Bar, home to the famed Chloe painting. The nude portrait, which is just as much a celebrity and icon as the building she resides in, has graced the walls since 1909.

17

Who could stay in bed when the temperature’s 40 degrees and your local is only a couple streets away?

Skip the traffic on the way to the beach and get your friends to this list of pubs instead. We’ve got places to gather before a night out, and places that will become your night out; places to drink cold ciders and fruity fun cocktails in the sun; places, most importantly, with air-conditioning, when being outside just

gets unbearable and your T-shirt starts to stick to your armpits. The only way to fix that condition is to stop smoking in front of The Dock or out the back of the Annandale and to come in for a craft beer or a crisp white wine.

Then on the food front it’s about the summer flavours: something light; a side of fresh salad or ‘slaw, and lots and lots of seafood. The renovated decors reflect that summery, anything-

goes vibe, the windows are open, carpet is old hat, and the colours are bright and welcoming (even if that’s just the fresh food!). Some venues host live music, some just let their views speak for themselves. Whether you want a pub in the middle of everything like Keg & Brew, or a pub by the beach like Coogee Diggers, there’s bound to be something in this lot to get you salivating.

The season’s about relaxing outside in open spaces, while the breeze tousles your hair – in a sexy way, not a bedhead way.

SYDNEY

The Great Southern Bar. PIC: Averie Harvey

18

BAR SIDE

With as many come-backs as John Farnham, The Annandale is the phoenix of the Sydney pub scene.

While it hasn’t been open in its newest manifestation for long, history is everywhere you look, with the plaques around the outside of the building giving a nod to The Annandale’s musical history.

It’s not just for rockers, though; The Annandale is for anyone this summer, providing people a place they can wheel their nan to for a morning coffee or catch up with their mates over a couple of cold ones. The open part of the courtyard is equipped with umbrellas for shade, or gaps to sun yourself, promising to be a fine place to spend those lazy summer afternoons.

THE ANNANDALE HOTEL

OUR DEAL

Where to start? There

are $12 food specials on

every week night. There’s

Bloody Mary Sundays

too; round off your

breakfast order with $10

singles and $18 jugs.17-19 PARRAMATTA ROAD, ANNANDALE(02) 9550 1078ANNANDALEHOTEL.COM$$$$

The summer food menu is inspired by the extremely creative mind of John Rankin, ex-head chef of Chinatown’s Waitan, with the pub having been bought by The Oscars Hotel Group in May last year. The menu’s introduced some new Asian-inspired snacks, such as the chilli prawn or the pork and scallop buns, or for something different the vegan curry mushroom empanada (shiitake, eggplant, zucchini, potato, peppers, coconut milk) – but the favourites like burgers, nachos and toasties (six kinds!) are also there. They’re big on brekky, too; we have a feeling ice cream-topped hot cakes and fruit salad are going to be popular. Or maybe the Hash Brown Buckets or the Cookies N Cream French Toastie. Those with kids will be pleased to know that there’s also a kids menu that reads like a little one’s dream, and meals come with a free soft drink and ice cream.

In terms of drinks, there is a pretty strong focus on craft beer at The Annandale, and for summer they’ll be focusing on and serving up the lighter, session beers that you can sit on all afternoon. With such a huge variety in the fridge and on tap there’s something to pair with everything on the menu and the staff are always keen to give you suggestions. The bar staff will also be getting creative with the mixer over the summer, providing a multitude of classic and contemporary alcoholic milkshakes and cocktails for you and your friends to enjoy in the sun.

FUN FACTNew Annandale owners Oscars Hotel Group also own other iconic Sydney pubs Lansdowne Hotel, Belvedere Hotel and Hotel Sweeneys.

19

BAR SIDE

This slap-dash dive bar makes for a lot of fun, with dim lightingand exposed brick giving it a relaxed and playful vibe.

Created by the infamous Beer Baron of Sydney, Jed Clarke, and his cousin Daniel O’Leary, The Dock attracts all sorts, from young and carefree, to people of all ages wanting a place to chill out, or anyone looking for great feed and a drink. Everyone’s welcome.

Seeing as this is the home of the Beer Baron, you can’t go wrong with a $5 bottle of Carter Premium Lager, and other beers only being a few dollars extra. For something out of the ordinary, taste the rainbow with a skittlebrau – simply a beer with a few skittle lollies thrown in for good measure. They rarely still do the Stevie Nicks cocktail (a beer cocktail with amaretto and coca cola) but they’ll make it for you if you ask. In terms of wine selection it’s a ‘three of

each colour’ kind of establishment. And of course, there’s always shots to try.

As for food offerings there are prawn, pork and vegetarian dumplings available. They have daily lunch and dinner specials with the dumplings – if you’re looking for some simple, no-fuss sustenance they hit the spot.

If you like your bar cheap and cheerful – and without pretension – welcome to your new favourite pub.

FUN FACTThe skittlebrau was originally featured on an episode of The Simpsons, where Homer dreamed up the odd combination. The Dock boys were clearly keen to make this dream a reality.

OUR DEALThere is a $10 daily lunch special at The Dock, which gets you six dumplings and a beer. Is there anything better than hot dumplings and cold beer?

182 REDFERN STREET,REDFERN0405 757 458TWITTER.COM/THEDOCKREDFERN$ $ $ $

THE DOCK

Trade enquiries: 0488 484 045

Handmade with passion.

20

BAR SIDE

Situated in the heart of Sydney, the Agincourt Hotel is a convenient place to go to get away from hustle and bustle of the Sydney CBD.

A multi-level hotel showcasing three different bars, each with dissimilar vibes, the Agincourt is easily accessible by any means of transport and has all bases covered, catering for anyone and everyone. During the day it’s the pub of choice for students and business types, while at night it’s the rockers and musos who might frequent the pub’s three iconic levels.

The heart of the building is the Agincourt’s main bar, offering a wide range of local and imported beers, wines and spirits. Located on the ground floor, the main

AGINCOURT HOTEL

OUR DEAL The Agincourt’s $12 specials are hard to go past here. The Monday to Friday happy jugs from 3–4pm and happy schooners and wine from 4–5pm also keep the punters coming back.

871 GEORGE STREET, SYDNEY(02) 9281 4566 AGINCOURTHOTEL.COM.AU $$$$

bar includes the VIP lounge, TAB and Keno facilities, and a big screen projector which provides a perfect setting for any big sporting event. The underground Cellar Bar meanwhile is perfect for a party or function, able to be booked out for any type of catered personal function or corporate event you can think of.

Moving upstairs, enjoy a fantastic dining experience for lunch or dinner in Agincourt’s first floor restaurant. The Agincourt’s kitchen specialises in classic pub fare, so here’s where to go if you’re in the mood for steaks, schnitzels and sangas. There’s plenty of breakfast, pasta and salad options too, so you’ll have your work cut out for you when deciding what you want. While the delicious 400g T-bone steak and 300g grain fed scotch fillet are the Agincourt’s most expensive food options, they only stand at an extremely affordable $22, highlighting the pub’s value for money.

The choices don’t stop with the food, as the Agincourt wine list also caters for all tastes. From a glass to a bottle, from the cheap to the expensive, here you can find the perfect drop for your perfect pub meal. Back vintages are available upon request. A full range of beer, wine and spirits are also available in the pub’s resident bottle shop, open until 10pm seven days a week.

FUN FACTThe venue’s first floor houses live bands playing from 7pm till late every Wednesday to Sunday night. For more information regarding the talents that play each week, see the Valve listings on the website.

21

BAR SIDE

With an open-plan ground floor and spacious outdoor court- yard, Newtown Social Club is bound to be popular this summer.

Patrons vary here quite a bit, from hipsters to hippies, families, locals, and tourists. Bands come and go and so do their respective muso crowd.

If you’re after a substantial pub meal, choose from favourites like the parma, fish and chips, or branch out with a tofu stack: marinated tofu, grilled eggplant, zucchini, spinach and red pepper coulis, served with chips. Vegetarians are catered to further with a faux dog and a tempura stuffed mushroom burger. An extensive pizza and snacks menu with satisfy the meat-eaters.

To drink this summer, the Club offers up a Watermelon Cooler. It is just the right amount of sweet without being overbearing: fresh watermelon juice, gin, lemon, and apple schnapps. South and

Western Australia are on show in the wine list in a big way, boasting Yering Station, Matua Valley and Kirrihill among an all-Australian line-up. For beer lovers, happy hour is from 4–6.30pm, Tuesday–Friday.

FUN FACTThe Sandringham Hotel used to stand where the Social Club is now. After a massive revamp, there are no more pokies and gaming machines and a brand new band room pumping out live music most nights.

OUR DEAL$6 pizza, all day, every day, from open ‘til close.

387 KING STREET,NEWTOWN(02) 9550 3974NEWTOWNSOCIALCLUB.COM$ $ $ $

NEWTOWN SOCIAL CLUB

BAR SIDE

With beers starting at $3 from 5–7pm every day, the locals are flocking to The Great Southern Bar this summer for happy hour, and you should probably join them.

The Great Southern has been around since 1844 in the beautiful heritage-listed Great Southern Hotel. The menu reflects locally grown and produced items to set itself apart from other bars in the area. With an extensive ‘From the Grill’ menu, MSA-grade Australian beef is prepared in a variety of ways to satiate your hankering for the perfect steak. Rotating specials keep things interesting, like the blue swimmer crab risotto and Mexican-inspired chimichangas. From pub

THE GREAT SOUTH-ERN BAR

717-723 GEORGE STREET,HAYMARKET(02) 9211 1337GREATSOUTHERNBAR.COM.AU$ $ $ $

classics like the chicken schnitzel or BLT sandwich to the slow-cooked lamb burger or the pumpkin, walnut and goat’s cheese salad, the menu caters to most tastes.

As the venue is located just near Central Station, its crowd has become a hub for transitory guests as well as sports fans, locals and students. Leading into summertime, the outdoor area is a prime location to watch all matter of life roll by down George Street over a wine, schooner or cocktail.

FUN FACT

The bar was inundated with impromptu conga lines that streamed around and

inside all of The Great Southern after the Sydney Cricket test last year.

OUR DEAL$10 burgers on Monday and Tuesday from 12–3pm.

22

BAR SIDE

Kick back, cocktail in hand, on one of Fitzroy Hotel’s two outdoor decks.

The large shade sails will not only keep you cool, but your cocktail jugs, too; Fitzroy Windsor’s got a range of ‘em, including Sex On The Beach, Long Island Ice Tea and Midori Splice. Not into the sweet stuff? Maybe $5 Coronas are a bit more your bag.

People-watch in the outdoor bar, or you’re after some entertainment, the pub’s also got a plasma screen and offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights. The clientele’s a real mixed bag; everyone from families and couples, locals to tradesmen and patrons up for a party come through the Fitzroy Hotel’s doors.

With the heat rising, Fitzroy Hotel is focussing on lighter meals and salads on their regularly-changing specials board. Some appealing items of the menu include the classic salt and pepper squid, and savoury crepes – choose

from creamy chicken and mushroom or veggies with a tomato sauce.

The wine list only features on-premise wine that you can’t find in bottle shops; they range from Germany, Western Australia, Victoria, South Australia and New Zealand. Not sure how to pair food and drink flavours? Not to worry, the list suggests what meals would complement your wine of choice. Too easy.

FUN FACTFitzroy Hotel holds the longest continuous licence in the Hawkesbury District; they also have a jumping castle for kids. Also, Captain Thunderbolt visited the hotel in 1850.

OUR DEAL$10 lunch specials from Monday to Friday. Dinner specials include: Tuesdays – chicken schnitzel for $7.50. Wednesday and Thursday – $10 steak, chips and salad with a complimentary drink. Sunday nights from 5.30pm, buy a main meal and get a second one half-price.

161 GEORGE ST, WINDSOR (02) 4577 3396FITZROYHOTEL.COM.AU$ $ $ $

FITZROY HOTEL

BAR SIDE

The locals love Coogee Diggers – the eight-month-olds to the 80-year-olds alike.

One of the oldest RSL clubs in Sydney – formed some time just before 1935 by a few World War 1 diggers – Coogee Diggers features a fantastic sunny outdoor terrace, with just enough shade, that opens right up into the entire club. Sounds pretty inviting to us.

To welcome you into the warmer months, if you’re after something a little different to your favourite wines and beers, Coogee Diggers recommends their house-made ginger lemonade with Tanqueray, house-made sweet tea with Sailor Jerry or a Young Henry’s natural lager. Pair that with well-priced gastro pub staples like pasta, risotto, bangers and mash, nachos, not one but three kinds of fish, sangers and burgers, steaks, ribs, salads, pizza or the Nepalese curry that’s always on the specials – the recipe’s thanks to head chef Kris’ mum!

COOGEE DIGGERS

CORNER CARR AND BYRON STREETS, COOGEE(02) 9665 4466COOGEEDIGGERS.COM.AU$ $ $ $

It’s hard to imagine that one location can offer gastro-pub dining, drinks to suit any taste, a newly-opened coffee shop, a fitness centre, pinball club, sports bar, live music and entertainment (there’s live gigs in The Bunker four nights a week!), full TAB facilities and is also family-friendly at the same time, but somehow, Coogee Diggers has covered all those bases.

FUN FACTCoogee Diggers’ indoor pool has been a place where the local kids have learnt how to swim since the mid-‘60s.

OUR DEAL$10 dinners from Monday – Thursday, new specials every week and Smokehouse Sundays – served on the outside terrace. There’s also trivia on Thursdays! If you’re still working out Christmas plans, Coogee Diggers will host a Christmas buffet, 25 Dec, 11.30am – 2.30pm.

23

BAR SIDE

The Cooper’s Hotel Rooftop, Garden Bar and Bistro is one of the best-kept secrets in Newtown.

This well-loved pub transcends from your homely local downstairs, to a sophisticated outdoor deck and restaurant. Staff commonly hear from visitors to Newtown say, “Oh wow, I never knew it was so nice up here!” The Rooftop & Garden Bar is the perfect place to go to soak up the summer sun, and once it gets dark it turns into a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of King Street. Downstairs in the Public Bar, you can play pool, catch live entertainment, a sporting match, or hit up the old school juke box.

The Avocado Margarita is a must-try – it is blended with lime, coriander and strawberry coulis; it’s experimental, fun and wildly popular. The wine list gives you great bang for your buck, and there are craft beers a plenty with taps rotating weekly.

The Cooper’s seasonal menu goes far beyond your regular pub grub. Chefs (and cousins) Ashley and Kurt O’Sullivan lead a team that offer up a gastro pub styled bistro. On the menu is a selection of items from a Szechuan spiced squid and green papaya salad, to six-hour braised beef cheeks with tomato fondue and pea puree, and the delicious ocean trout with steamed vongole in caper butter sauce, just to name a few. Cooper’s is also big on tapas – some favourites include house-made pork and chive dumplings, or pork, fennel and apple sausage rolls in tomato chutney. So many winning dishes on offer; you’ll want to try as many as you can!

FUN FACTScruffy the Cellarman has been with the pub for 25 years and is the unofficial Lord Mayor of Newtown!

OUR DEALThursday dinner is two for one mains from 5pm – so popular, it’s lucky the bistro is open 12pm–10pm every day!

221 KING ST, NEWTOWN(02) 9550 3461COOPERSHOTEL.COM.AU$ $ $ $

COOPER’S HOTEL

We have a large range of equipment to suit the hotel industry

We sell parts for all types

equipment

We’re a

provider

We have rental and lease

24

BAR SIDE

The Observer Hotel was built in 1908 on the site of two former pubs in Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct, just a stone’s throw from Sydney Cove and Circular Quay.

The Observer Hotel combines old world charm, contemporary comfort and style and the atmosphere of a historic and incredibly scenic location. The Rocks are an international tourist attraction, so a high proportion of the clientele are tourists taking in the kaleidoscope of sights, smells and sounds in Sydney’s remarkable harbour, making for a fantastic atmosphere.

The pub features a classical and traditional design, in touch with The Rocks’ unique

THE OBSERVER HOTEL

OUR DEAL

Voted among the top five

burgers in town by the

SMH Good Food Guide

among others, you can

enjoy their Classic Beef

Burgers with sautéed

onions for just $14.50, with

a side salad and chips.

69 GEORGE STREET,THE ROCKS(02) 9252 4169OBSERVERHOTEL.COM.AU$$$$

and popular landscape. It includes an outdoor courtyard with seating, and additional seating down Mills Lane.

The summer menu offers a wide-ranging selection at affordable prices that caters for all, including burgers/wraps, salads, Mexican dishes, steak, seafood, dessert, sides/nibbles and a kids’ menu. The chef is Mark Esplin, owner of The Burger Joint, who has managed to create an award-winning burger at a reasonable price.

There are daily food specials on offer centring mainly on the very popular burgers. The Obby Meal Deals feature daily burger/fish and chips specials for $12 Monday to Thursday, 11am-3pm. This also includes a drink and wine option for an additional $3 to $5 depending on your choice of beverage. Burgers range from $15 to $21, while more expensive mains include Surf & Turf for $31.

Drinks-wise, some of the summer favourites include a refreshing Canadian Club Dry, Bulmers Original Apple Cider, Rekorderlig Strawberry & Lime Cider and more.

The Observer also carries a number of premium craft beers, including Matilda Bay Fat Yak Pale Ale, Ruby Tuesday Amber Ale and more. For the wine connoisseurs, the wine list offers an extensive range catering to all palates.

The Observer has hosted live music every night of the week for the last 20 years, adding to the legendary atmosphere.

FUN FACTA Santa pub-crawl in The Rocks once made its way to the Observer! 80 to 100 Santas were in the pub getting crazy.

25

BAR SIDE

Towradgi Beach Hotel boasts Wollongong’s largest beer garden, complete with a waterfall and several outdoor bars. Yes, a waterfall.

White crisp picnic tables and nautical-inspired Corona flags also scream summer. With an outdoor park (a kid’s dream) at one end of the beer garden and a sports bar (a sport’s enthusiast’s dream) at the other, TBH welcomes all types. There’s also an open air roof, OBAR, which is an 18+ hideaway with soft lounges, water wall and specialty cocktails that you can easily lose an afternoon in.

Food-wise, TBH keeps to its roots, though, offering big pub-style meals with a modern twist. There’s seafood, sensational burgers (pulled pork burger, classic cheese burger, fish burger), sharing plates, kid’s meals, pizzas, plus they’ve just opened a nacho bar (what a beautiful pairing of words), Macho Nacho.

They’re serving up fresh cocktails for summer – a traditional mojito never disappoints. However, sometimes it’s the simple things that hit the spot, like sipping a Corona with lime or a fruity cider in the beer garden under an umbrella with your mates. TBH is ideal for that sort of thing.

FUN FACTThe band room, Waves, has hosted acts such as Ramones, The Beastie Boys, Silverchair, Blink 182 and Pennywise, and Everclear.

OUR DEALNightly specials under $15 from 5pm. $5 brekky specials on the weekend. There’s also free live music every Friday night, Saturday arvo and Sunday arvo.

170 PIONEER ROAD, TOWRADGI(02) 4283 3588TOWRADGIBEACHHOTEL.COM.AU$ $ $ $

TOWRADGI BEACH HOTEL

BAR SIDE

Having been renovated just in time to make the most of the coming sunshine, Sydney’s Belvedere Hotel is purpose-built to give you the best seat in the CBD to take in everything summer has to offer.

Belvedere Hotel is perfect for the discerning CBD drinker or diner who wants somewhere to escape the modern world’s fast pace and pressures; and who wants to unwind with friends among old world charm. The hotel’s beautiful view is just one of many things which ensure the Belvedere lives up to its name in all of its stunning, imperial glory.

The Belvedere kitchen springs from the talented mind of John Rankin, who is the executive chef for all hotels in the Oscars Group, best known for his east-meets-west-

THE BELVEDERE HOTEL

428 KENT STREET,SYDNEY(02) 9264 1688THEBELVEDEREHOTEL.COM.AU $ $ $ $

style menu. The Belvedere’s menu is inspired by classic English pub food but with a twist for our Australian weather and palates, serving up everything from duck Yorkshire puddings to succulent Fremantle octopus salad.

The drinks list is also ever-expanding across the Belvedere’s three bars. Now it’s impossible not to find comfort in the local and international wine list or in their brand new, refreshing, fruity cocktails – the ideal accompaniment to a morning, afternoon or evening in the sun.

FUN FACTThe Belvedere is one of Sydney’s oldest hotels: drinks have been flowing since 1823.

OUR DEALThere are $15 meal deals from Monday to Thursday which come with a complimentary drink to get you through the work week.

26

BAR SIDE

The Keg & Brew pays tribute to the establishment’s humble beginnings by maintaining original features such as their tiled exterior and grand central bar while adding their own touch of décor.

There’s definitely a tongue-in-cheek spaghetti western theme instilled – cowhide panels appear on the bar, and brown leather banquettes and more stuffed animal heads than a taxidermy store can also be spotted. You might even see a portrait of Dolly Parton. Even the gaming room has a unique atmosphere; aptly named (or so we hope) the Lucky Lounge, this area features lucky horseshoe chairs.

KEG & BREW

OUR DEAL

Alongside their regular

Happy Hour, K&B have just

launched Crafternoons:

get a $4 craft beer 5–7pm

Mon–Sat or $10 craft beer

jugs and $5 schooners

all Thurs, plus $9 meal

deals five days a week.

26 FOVEAUX STREET, SURRY HILLS(02) 9212 1740KEGANDBREW.COM.AU$$$$

Speaking of brews – there’s a lot. The pub boasts one of the largest ranges of beer and cider in Australia with 33 individual taps. There is a strong focus on Aussie craft beer, but if you’re more of a traditionalist, don’t fear – they’ve still got the classics (VB, Carlton Draught) on hand. If you’re down for something a bit heavier, there’s many a shelf dedicated to bourbon, with 30 types of brown gold available for the tasting. Enjoy it on its own, with some coke, or as part of a tasty cocktail. Of particular mention is the Gold Rush – a spiced bourbon sour cocktail that is guaranteed to refresh on a warm summer’s day.

In terms of bites, former sous chef of Surry Hills restaurant Dove & Olive Devendra Sherchan brings that classic pub food – with a deep Southern American twist. Expect some deep fried goodness. The cuisine ranges from snack-style Fixin’s to the heartier Grub and Grill selections. Start with the Big Tex Bacon Bites (bacon which has been crumbed and fried) and continue on with Kentucky bourbon Black Angus rump steak. Vegetarians and vegans aren’t forgotten – grab the mouth-watering vegan maple-glazed polenta cake. Dessert at the K&B is not for the faint-hearted, with a deep-fried Twinkie covered in chocolate fondue and sprinkles that will test even the most hardened sweet tooth.

FUN FACTThe pub was originally opened in 1936 as the KB Hotel, which was a Foveaux Street favourite for many years. It was only taken over and transformed earlier this year by the owners of the Dove & Olive – another Surry Hills favourite.

27

Keen on Jam Jar cocktails and fancy a first-floor view overlooking Queens Park? Irish Murphy’s has got you covered, and also ticks the box for Irish pub fare with a few curve balls thrown in. Some of you have gotta be My Kitchen Rules fans, but even if you’re not, you’ll be into what Mal and Bec’s venture Shady Palms has got to give: air-conditioning (cue sigh of relief), a lighter and fresher take on pan-American cuisine, and milkshakes for non-drinkers, plus plenty for the drinkers too. If looking at the Brisbane River, city

skyline and Southbank Parklands brings a tear to your eye, better head to The Plough Inn; plan your visit for a Thursday for ‘Seafood Madness’ and nab yourself a kilo of mussels or a pot of Singaporean chilli crab. Sweating with anticipation yet? We’ve got more. The playful will wanna hit up Woolly Mammoth Alehouse; besides all the boozy goodness they can provide, there’s also bocce, giant jenga, astroturf to wriggle your toes on while you sun yourself, comfy couches and $10 pizzas. Lock ‘n’ Load is all

about microbreweries and, food-wise, simple flavours done right. And finally, a date destination we can suggest is Alto Cucina: beautiful Mediterranean fare with an extensive wine list.

So there you have it: a snapshot of what Brisbane pubs in the summer have to offer. We’re betting that having read this far, you’re now itching for a cold drink and bite to eat – and thanks to this handy list, now you know where to go.

Whether you want to stay in the sun or get out of it, there’s a pub that’ll allow you to do that while offering up something mouth-watering and thirst-quenching.

Brisbane

The Plough Inn. PIC: Markus Ravik

28

WOOLLY MAMMOTH ALEHOUSE

633 ANN STREET, FORTITUDE VALLEY(07) 3257 4439WOOLLYMAMMOTH.COM.AU$ $ $ $

BAR SIDE

The Woolly Mammoth Alehouse is anything but prehistoric – this diverse, multifunctional space has a little something for everyone.

The modern-yet-rustic venue provides three distinct areas for your entertainment – the Alehouse, the Mane Stage and the Garden Bar.

The Alehouse supplies the boozy component of the establishment, as well as shuffleboards to satisfy your inner oldie, while the Mane Stage provides a space for gigs and other such entertainment. The main feature of the Garden Bar is a roof that opens up to let in those summer rays.

The menu is small but packs a punch. There are a few traditional pizzas to choose from, as well as some vegetarian and vegan options. Try the caramelised onion, blue cheese and caper variety. The menu also features some rustic off-the-bone delights, like beef short ribs in stout jus with horseradish potato salad and beetroot relish or on the pork knuckle with sauerkraut, peach chutney and cider

jus. Feel like sharing? Try a scrumptious platter of meats, cheese or vegetables.

The venue provides 31 craft products on tap, plus an extensive wine list and some refreshing cocktails are also available as an alternative.

FUN FACTThe Woolly Mammoth Alehouse holds a bocce tournament every Thursday in the Garden Bar. There’s also giant jenga!

OUR DEALFriends of the Mammoth – those with post-codes 4005 or 4006 – can get a whopping 50% off their total food bill on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. On Thursdays you can grab $10 pizzas from 12–5pm. On Sundays there’s $10 pizzas all day with a $10 stein of Mammoth Lager.

BAR SIDE

Shady Palms is the ultimate Queensland style pub. With three separate areas and two bars, there is ample space to find yourself a niche this summer.

The front bar is cool with dark lighting, air conditioning (a life-saver on those scorching days) and a breeze that eases through the room, while the back bar has wide open windows, plenty of planter boxes and four cold beer taps; perfect for escaping the summer heat. The front bar, beer garden and adjacent laneway also have constantly evolving and changing street art galleries.

Offering a pan-American menu with a focus on the fresh style of California as well as the border regions of the Americas, Shady’s empanadas, ceviches, tacos, superfood salads, sliders and burgers really hit the spot. Furthermore, food prices range from $4.50 to $20 – something that ensures that there is something affordable for everyone to enjoy. In terms of drinks, most bases are covered, with cocktails (hello, lime Moscow Mules),

jugs (Pimm’s and fruit, oh yes), craft beer, boutique cider, coffee, as well as milkshakes and fresh juices always going down a treat.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Shady Palms is your friendly neighbourhood pub, and always manages to maintain its relaxed, entertaining vibe.

FUN FACTOwned by My Kitchen Rules’ 2011 Queensland contestants Mal and Bec, Shady Palms is the duo’s second establishment after the resounding success of Greenslopes’ Lady Marmalade. They’ve also recently opened the Milk Factory Cafe.

427 LOGAN ROAD, STONES CORNER(07) 3324 2917 SHADYPALMSCAFE.COM $ $ $ $

SHADY PALMS

OUR DEALCome to Shady Palms on Thursdays for American Road Trip Thursdays where it’s just $20 for a slider, taco, fried chicken and delicious Anchor or Abita brew.

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The vibe is exactly as you’d expect when you muster up thoughts of an Irish pub: warm, cosy, dim lights, and endless mahogany. But come summertime, they’ve got a few other features to show off.

In summer, Irish Murphy’s counter the cosiness for their Brisbanites with an expansive balcony on the first floor that overlooks Queens Park and runs the entire length of the building. Apparently anyone who speaks the universal language of ‘party’ is welcome; most recently this meant motocross star Travis Pastrana, members of Nitro Circus, and The Offspring. There is also live music seven nights a week to entice you inside, with Brisbane’s best Irish entertainment on every Sunday night.

The food is a mix of Irish standards and your traditional pub grub. Depending on what you feel like, you can go Irish with Irish stew, stay traditional with a 300 gram Greenham’s sirloin served with chips and salad or creamy mashed potato, or throw a curveball to a Veggie Stack: grilled eggplant, tomato, zucchini mushroom, grilled tofu and greens, finished with balsamic and

IRISH MURPHY’S

OUR DEAL Monday-Wednesday: $11 lunch special from 10am–2pm.Thursday: Parmageddon – parmas for $17, or two for $32.$15 menu for some meals all day, every day.

175 GEORGE STREET,BRISBANE(07) 3221 4377BRISBANE.IRISHMURPHYS.COM.AU$$$$

chive oil. Another number you don’t see at your average Irish pub is the chicken curry: slow cooked chicken on the bone in a slow cooked Massaman curry, served with Basmati rice and pappadams. Head chef Lance is apparently a gun at spicy fare, which is why the Inferno Beef Burger on the $15 menu comes highly recommended. In fact, they dare you to try it.

For summer there is a new line of Jam Jars on offer. Try the Green Apple Vodka Jar with ginger ale and fresh lime. A solid beer/cider tap selection includes Ruby Tuesday, Kosciusko Pale, Kopparberg Strawberry & Lime, Itchy Green Pants and some favourites like Little Creatures, Guinness of course, and Coopers.

FUN FACTThe site where Irish Murphy’s now stands is well-trodden pub and hotel territory. The earliest known hotel stood here in 1865, known as the Dunmore Arms. In 1888 it was revamped as the Treasury Hotel, which served government treasury folk most commonly. Now it exudes Irish flair and has a gaming lounge in a mysterious underground vault. Another fun fact, punk rockers The Offspring once came in for some chill knock off beers and ended up performing on stage with house band Jabba. Nice.

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One of Brisbane’s longest standing icons since its construction in 1885, The Plough Inn gives patrons beautiful summer views of the Brisbane River, city skyline and Southbank Parklands from the shady open air beer garden.

This heritage-listed building comprises The Beer Garden, which has live music seven days a week starting in December, the Sports Bar inside which is air-conditioned with large screens, The Lounge area which is used for lounging (of course) whilst the upstairs deck area provides stellar views. There is also a newly renovated over-18s area called the Arbour Bar.

THE PLOUGH INN

OUR DEAL Mondays and Tuesdays is Ribs, Rumps & T-Bones for $24; Wednesday offers Schnitzel or Parma for $18; and Thursday means a kilo of Mussels for $18 or Chilli Crab for $22.

BUILDING 29, STANLEY STREET PLAZA,SOUTHBANK PARKLANDS(07) 3844 7777PLOUGHINN.COM.AU$$$$

Executive chef Ben Wrigley brings years of experience in providing traditional pub meals as well as modern Australian options. In The Beer Garden there are snack size options from the sausage sizzle, fish and chips and burgers. On the deck there is an a la carte menu and to tie in with how many beers are available, the food incorporates beer; there is the Fat Yak Beer Battered Barramundi, The Plough Inn Drunken Steak (a flame grilled steak marinated in a stout for 24 hours) or the Redback wheat beer-infused 1kg pot of mussels. The Plough is also pretty famous for their steak.

For something lighter, there are a range of salads, pies and seafood options available. Another stand out is the Sizzling Chicken, Lime and Chilli Fajita: a Mexican sizzling platter with chicken, bell peppers and red onion served in grilled tortillas, with sour cream, house made salsa, guacamole & salad.

To drink, there are 44 draught beers available, just in case you wanted that many choices. For summer, your suggestions are to try a pint of Peroni, Bulmer’s Cider or Dirty Granny apple cider or a Matilda Bay craft beer. Treasury wines are also heavily featured, with some favourites including the Squealing Pigs Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris, or the Pepper Jack Shiraz.

FUN FACTThe Plough Inn celebrates 150 years of existence this year, luckily surviving every major flood in that time to be the watering hole of choice for locals. Members of the Australian Rugby League Team, the Brisbane Lions and numerous Australian cricketers all frequent the Plough.

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With a tranquil courtyard to escape the city streets, plus great pub food and live music, Lock ‘n’ Load’s beer garden provides punters with a cool and refreshing place to kick back.

Since 2005 Lock ‘n’ Load has hosted some of the best up-and-coming local music talent as well as seasoned artists from all around Australia.

In terms of drink, there is a strong focus on microbreweries and wineries producing interesting beverages. The homemade cocktails on offer also draw in the crowds, who stop in for A Casual Hello (42 Below Passion, Licor 43, apple juice, basil, lychees and peach bitters) or a Green Rose (Gin Mare, apple schnapps, rosemary, lime, topped with apple juice). There’s plenty

LOCK-’N’LOAD BISTRO

142 BOUNDARY ST, WEST END (07) 3844 0142LOCKNLOADBISTRO.COM.AU$ $ $ $

of craft and mass-produced ciders and beer, and a wide-ranging wine list.

Summer chef Cassidy McMillan has put together a fresh vibrant summer menu - there are hints of native Australian produce in the gri lled fish of the day; spiced pumpkin, shaved cucumber, pomegranate and feta salad and more. And with a vertiginous number of sides to choose from, you can chop and change your meal to your exact liking.

FUN FACT

You can order online from the Express Lunch menu (available Monday – Friday) and then just pop down to pick it up.

OUR DEALTheir VIP/loyalty program gives you access to the pub’s rotating specials, discounts and more.

BAR SIDE

Alto Cucina gives patrons the choice of wooden booths or tables in a shaded outdoor setting surrounded by palms, ideal for balmy summer evenings.

The crowd is usually locals, business professionals and the odd tourist. The menu reflects Mediterranean leanings, with gourmet pizzas, tapas, sharing plates or an impressive amount of seafood and salads: grilled scallops, drunken chilli prawns or the whole baked baby barramundi. There are more substantial meat options with the 500g rib eye on the bone or 1kg BBQ chilli plum beef ribs.

On tap to drink there is Little Ripper, Peroni, Byron Bay Pale Lager, Asahi and Rekorderlig just to name some. Wines from South and Western Australia dominate; Yalumba, Langmeil, Wirra Wirra and Running With

Bulls are on offer as well as some Italian names. You can purchase by the bottle, glass or even ask for a taste size. There’s also an extensive list of 23 cocktails.

FUN FACTCucina means kitchen in Italian, and Alto is an acronym for ‘A little taste of’; thus, ‘A little taste of kitchen and bar’ is their motto. The tasting plates and tasting sizes of selected beers and wines attests to the name and philosophy, which encourages customers to try a little of everything.

Channel 7 has also filmed a scene in here for one of their shows, Bringing Sexy Back!

OUR DEAL Monday–Saturday, 12–4pm, lunch Specials under $20 and add a selected beer or wine for $4.50. Every week the chef also creates a new special.

Alto’s New Year’s Eve party offers an antipasto buffet, specialty tasting plates, dessert buffet, and more.

SHOP 47 THE OASIS SHOPPING CENTRE, VICTORIA AVENUE,BROADBEACH (07) 5539 0377ALTOCUCINA.COM.AU$ $ $ $

ALTO CUCINA AND BAR

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