Melbourne has a pub scene that stretches from classic Irish bars and heritage hotels to beer gardens, sports pubs, gastropubs, neighbourhood locals and saloon-style drinking rooms. The best pubs in Melbourne are not all built for the same kind of visit. Some are perfect for a quiet pint, others for parmas, steaks, footy, Sunday roasts, live sport, family lunches, beer gardens or a proper night out with friends.
This guide focuses on seven Melbourne pubs worth knowing: The Irish Times Pub, The Graham Hotel, The Great Northern Hotel, Railway Hotel, White Oaks Saloon, The King Hotel and Kent Hotel. Together, they cover the range of Melbourne pub culture, from CBD pints and Port Melbourne gastropub dining to Carlton North beer gardens, South Melbourne heritage pubs, Prahran saloon energy and city sports bars.
1. The Irish Times Pub
The Irish Times Pub is one of Melbourne CBD’s most recognisable Irish pubs. Sitting on Little Collins Street, it brings a traditional pub feel to the city, with dark timber, a warm room, Irish hospitality, familiar drinks and the kind of atmosphere that suits both casual lunches and longer nights out.
This is the kind of pub people choose when they want comfort, conversation and something dependable. It works for pints, pub meals, after-work drinks, catch-ups with friends, visitors looking for an Irish pub in Melbourne and anyone who wants a central venue that feels more relaxed than a cocktail bar or restaurant.
The food direction suits classic pub eating: hearty plates, Irish-inspired comfort food, familiar mains, snacks and meals that work well with beer. It is not trying to be overly polished or experimental. Its strength is that it feels like a proper pub in the middle of the city.
The Irish Times Pub is also useful because of its location. Little Collins Street puts it close to offices, hotels, shopping streets, laneways and transport, making it easy for weekday lunches, post-work pints, weekend visits and casual CBD dinners.
The Irish Times Pub is best for Irish pub atmosphere, pints, hearty meals, after-work drinks, casual dinners, CBD catch-ups and anyone looking for a classic pub in central Melbourne.
Address: 427 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
The Irish Times Pub Menu
Something to Start
Irish Times Platter
a winning combination of loaded potato skins, buffalo wings and calamari.
Spicy Buffalo Wings
chicken wings tossed in a savoury blend of secret spices and paired with our cool creamy bleu cheese sauce
Lamb Chops
irresistible, prime gippsland lamb chops marinated with rosemary and mustard, basted with red wine jus.
Loaded Potato Skins
loaded with melted mozzarella, topped with crispy apple wood smoked bacon and served with sour cream and spring onions.
Fire-Grilled Prawns
prawns marinated in ginger, garlic and touch of tabasco. seasoned with zesty lime vinaigrette
Calamari
deep fried, tuscan battered calamari rings served with tartare sauce on mesclun
Sesame Guinness Chicken
chicken drumettes tossed in a house made guinness glaze and sesame seeds.
Sizzling Pork Riblets
barbeque marinated pork riblets basted with a guinness glaze, served on a sizzling skillet.
Chips with Mcdonnells Curry Sauce
beer battered chips topped with tradition irish mcdonnells curry sauce.
Potato Wedges
hand cut potato wedges baked and deep fired till golden brown, served with sweet chilli sauce and sour cream.
The Burgers
Barbeque Burger
for aussie meat lovers, this burger is basted with bbq sauce, stacked with mesclun, tomato, pickles, onion, melted cheddar cheese; crispy apple wood smoked bacon.
Veggie Burger
mixed vegetable patty served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles and melted cheese.
Legendary Irish Times Guinness Tower Burger
our signature char-grilled burger glazed with our secret guinness sauce and stacked with mix lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, melted cheese and towered with tuscan-battered onion rings.
Tropical Burger
grilled black angus beef burger topped with ham, bacon, pinepaaple and glazed with bbq sauce.
Pepper Burger
char-grilled angus beef burger with roasted bell pepper sauce topped with american cheese.
Mushroom Onion Swiss Burger
try our 200gm angus beef burger topped with caramelised onion and sautéed mushrooms in white wine with melted swiss cheese.
Jalapeño Burger
this burger is the perfect choice if you are looking for something zesty. char-grilled burger topped with melted american cheese, spicy salsa mix, sliced jalapeños.
The Salads
Moroccan Lamb Salad
grilled lamb tenders marinated with cumin, corriander and morrocan spices served on a zesty salad and topped with olives, feta and mint lebna.
Caesar Salad
crisp cos lettuce, lightly dressed with our homemade caser dressing, topped with crispy bacon, egg, herbed croutons and parmesan cheese.
Mongolian Beef Salad
prime cut beef strips tossed in balsamic glaze on a bed off rocket, tomatoes, onions, and pine nuts.
Calamari Salad
deep fired calamari rings served with mixed lettuce, mandarins, and tangy irish times dressing.
The Mains
Famous Beef & Guinness Pie
our signature dish, layered in crock pot, sirloin chunks slow cooked with thyme, carrots, onions and celery in guinness stout, topped with creamy mashed potato sprinkled with cheddar cheese and baked to golden brown.
Galway Shepherd's Pie
our shepherd's pie is a more traditional one, made with beef mince, peas, carrots and leeks in rich red wine gravy. piled up with mash and crisped in the oven.
Pork & Leek Bangers and Mash
grilled pork and leek sausages served on herb and garlic flavoured mash potatoes with rosemary and red wine pan jus.
Chicken Parmagiana
oregano marinated chicken breast crumbed in house and fried to a golden brown, topped with virginia ham, homemade napoli sauce and melted cheese to create the perfect taste for aussie parma lovers. served with chips and salad.
Hearty Irish Stew
a true style stew made from grade-a diced lamb with fresh rosemary, cooked in red wine jus, onions, celery, potatoes, carrots, leeks and garlic. served on herb flavoured creamy mashed potato.
Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich
thyme and mustard marinated deep fried schnitzel served with lettuce, red onion, pickles and honey mustard.
Vegetarian Quesadilla
flour tortilla stuffed with melted with mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, chillies and fresh coriander. served with sour cream and guacamole.
Salmon
atlantic salmon pan fried served with garlic mash and herb tossed veggies flavoured with creamy grain mustard sauce.
Fish and Chips
beer battered fish and chips served with straight cut chips, salad and house made tartare sauce.
From the Grill
Barbeque Ribs
irish times pork ribs continue to draw the crowds, basted in irish times bbq sauce and grilled until tender. these ribs are taste sensation! bibs are standard issue for the ultimate rib-tastic experience. served with chips, sour cream and onions rings.
Pork Cutlet
moroccan spiced pork cutlet, grilled to perfection and glazed with our signature guinness sauce served with salad and creamy mash potato.
Porterhouse 340gm
150 day grain fed gippsland beef marinated with olive oil, rosemary, truffle salt and cracked pepper.
Rib Eye 340gm
100 day grain fed an outstanding example of rib eye at its best. well marbled for peak flavour and deliciously juicy
Wagyu 350gm
400 day grass fed, 4/6 marbling, farmed on the south island of new zealand, eating nothing but pure new zealand pasture, this animal has an unmatched tenderness & flavour that can only be produced by cattle fed on new zealand's grasslands.
Black Angus 350gm
king island victorian farms, 140-day grass fed black angus rump sprinkled with truffle salt and char-grilled.
Sauces
Mushroom Sauce
Pepper Sauce
Guinness Glaze
Smoky Bbq Sauce
Herb Butter
Rosemary and Red Wine Jus
Onion Gravy
Sides
Chefs Veggies.
Creamy Truffle Mash Potatoes.
Tuscan Battered Onion Rings.
Herb Butter Green Beans.
Garden Salad.
Side of Fries.
Something Sweet
Sizzling Brownie
a slice of warm classic brownie with crushed walnuts, a drizzle of hot chocolate sauce, and ice-cream all served on a sizzling skillet.
Irish Times Sensation
an indulgent combination of warm brownie chunks with chocolate and caramel sauce, between scoops of vanilla ice-cream topped with crushed walnuts.
2. The Graham Hotel
The Graham Hotel gives Port Melbourne a more polished version of the neighbourhood pub. Located on Graham Street, it combines local-pub comfort with a stronger food focus, making it a good choice when you want a pub meal that feels a little more considered.
The venue works across several occasions. It can be used for a steak, a glass of wine, a family dinner, a quiet drink, a group lunch or a more substantial meal without heading into the CBD. That flexibility is exactly what a strong neighbourhood pub should offer.
The Graham Hotel is especially useful for Port Melbourne locals, nearby workers, bayside diners and groups who want pub hospitality with a dining-room feel. It has enough polish for a proper dinner but still keeps the relaxed rhythm of a local hotel.
Food is a major part of the appeal. The Graham fits the gastropub category more than the basic beer-and-chips pub category, with a menu that suits steaks, classic mains, wine-friendly dishes and relaxed group meals.
The Graham Hotel is best for gastropub dining, pub steaks, wine, Port Melbourne dinners, family meals, group lunches and anyone looking for a more polished neighbourhood pub.
Address: 97 Graham Street, Port Melbourne
The Graham Hotel Menu
STARTERS
Oysters’ Natural
Salmon roe, pickled apple, shiso
Seared Tuna Tataki
Wasabi ponzu, wakame, pickled veg, caviar, sesame
Grilled tiger prawns
Lemon butter, rocket & fennel salad
Grilled half shell scallop
Mushroom XO, micro herbs
Black Opal wagyu tartare
Chimichurri, egg yolk, balsamic glaze, sweet potato crisps
Lamb kofta kebabs (4pcs)
Red onion, tzatziki, herbs
Tempura fried zucchini flowers (3pcs)
Ricotta, capsicum chutney
Gippsland handmade burrata
Fennel jam, persimmon
Graham share platter for two
Lamb kofta kebabs, dukkah prawns, chermoula calamari, tzatziki, Moroccan slaw
Charcuterie
De Palma grass fed bresaola, Duroc 18-month serrano riserva, Borgo hot sopressa, house made terrine, pate, red onion jam, pickle.
MAINS
Slow braised Roaring Forties lamb ragout
Potato gnocchi, green olives, garden peas, parmesan, herbs
Market fish
500g whole NZ flounder
Pomme frites, rocket & fennel salad
Squid ink spaghetti
King prawns, chorizo, cherry tomatoes, chili, garlic, herbs
Hazeldene’s chicken brie
Jamon, Brie, mushroom cassoulet, basil pesto
Graham vegan curry
Mild curry sauce, mixed vegetables, tofu, rice, roti bread, papadums
Pumpkin risotto
Broccoli, preserved lemon, parmesan, fried sage
Westholme’s wagyu beef schnitzel
Crushed potato salad, red wine jus
24hr slow braised Flinders Island osso-buco pie
Creamy mash, Dutch carrots, Brussel sprouts, red wine jus
Roaring Forties lamb backstrap
Chargrilled eggplant puree, couscous, asparagus, pomegranate jus
FROM THE GRILL
Prime cut Pasture fed beef sourced from Flinders + Co.
250gm Gippsland Eye fillet
300gm Bass Strait Porterhouse
350gm Bass Strait Scotch fillet
Add grilled tiger prawn
12ea
400gm Scottsdale Pork ribeye
Potato gratin, smoked tomato relish, asparagus, cranberry jus
SIDE ORDERS
Graham garden salad
tomato, onion, cucumber, lemon vinaigrette
Charred pear salad
radicchio, rocket, roquefort, maple, walnuts
Heirloom carrots
harissa, goats cheese, pistachio dukkah
Fried broccoli
mustard Gastrique, crunchy shallots
Roasted Brussel sprouts
Pancetta, apple, chestnuts
Pomme frites
spice salt
Truffle pomme frites
black garlic aioli
DESSERTS
Banoffee meringue stack
Banana, mascarpone, salted caramel, vanilla ice cream
Gingerbread & butter pudding
Honeycomb, poached pear, port glaze, vanilla ice cream
Warm chocolate souffle
Spiced orange sauce, whipped cream, berries
Orange crème brûlée
Almond biscotti, berries
Graham gelati trio
Farmhouse cheese board
Jouvence brie fermier, Pyengana St Colomba blue Ford farm cave aged cheddar, piccalilli, dried fruit salami, crostini.
3. The Great Northern Hotel
The Great Northern Hotel is one of Carlton North’s best-loved pubs, known for its beer garden, sports-friendly atmosphere and classic pub food. Sitting on Rathdowne Street, it has the feel of a proper local: easygoing, social, spacious and built for repeat visits.
The pub works well for people who want more than just a quick drink. It is a strong choice for parmas, steaks, burgers, Sunday roasts, beers, live sport, trivia nights, group meals and relaxed afternoons that can turn into evenings.
The Great Northern is especially useful for groups because it has the kind of pub energy that suits many different people at once. Some can come for beer and sport, others for a proper meal, others for the beer garden or a casual family lunch.
Its Carlton North location also gives it a strong neighbourhood role. Rathdowne Street is close enough to the inner city to be convenient, but the pub still feels like a local destination rather than a tourist-heavy CBD venue.
The Great Northern Hotel is best for beer gardens, pub classics, parmas, steaks, burgers, sport, Sunday roasts, group meals and relaxed Carlton North pub sessions.
Address: 644 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North
The Great Northern Hotel Menu
Shared platters
Shared platters for a group of people, allow approximately 4-6 pieces per person as rule of thumb.
Fish Bites, tartare sauce & lemon
(20pc) - $100
Beef/Vegan/Chicken burger sliders
(20pc) - $100 (Choose 1 option)
Chicken Skewers, lemon pepper, sriracha aioli
(20pc) - $80
Prawn cutlets, panko crumbed & bearnaise
(20pc) - $80
Chicken sandwiches, cold sandwiches, poached chicken, chives, aioli
(20pc) - $100
Wild Boar Dim Sims (Option for steamed or fried)
(20pc) - $145
Wild Boar Sausage Rolls
(20pc) - $145
Wallaby Party Pies
(20pc) - $145
Bowl of chips
$14 GFO
Bowl of wedges
$14
Chocolate Brownie
$15 per serve
Sticky Date Pudding
$15 per serve
GNH Cheese Board, selection of 3 seasonal cheeses(150g), Lavosh, Quince, Kalamata Olives, & Pear
$53 per serve
$65 per Person function menu
Choice of entrée, main course and dessert
Calamari, lime aioli, lemon (gf)
Spicy chicken wings, blue cheese sauce (gf)
Vegetarian Nachos, guacamole, sour cream (v/vo)
Fish and chips, tartare, salad (gfo)
Schnitzel, gravy, chips, salad
Chicken Parma, chips, salad
Eggplant Parma, chips, salad (v/vo)
Lemon Pepper Calamari, chips, salad (gfo)
Sticky Date Pudding
Chocolate Brownie
STARTERS
Chips | Wedges (V)
Sweet Potato Fries (V)
beetroot aioli
Garlic Bread (V)
Salt & Pepper Calamari
sweet chilli mayo
Korean Fried Chicken
chipotle dip
Panko Crumbed Flathead Tacos (3)
slaw, avocado, feta, lime, sour cream & sriracha mayo
Satay Chicken Skewers (4) (GF)
cucumber dipping sauce
MAINS
Chicken Schnitzel
chips, slaw & gravy or aioli
Chicken Parmigiana
chips & slaw (add ham + $2)
Beef & Bean Nachos (GF)
guacamole, tomato salsa & sour cream
Beer Battered Flathead Fillets
chips, salad & tartare
Grilled Barramundi (GF)
white wine cream sauce, lemon potatoes, carrots & beans
Pan Fried Salmon & Prawns (GF)
spicy coconut sauce, potatoes, snow peas & coriander
Moroccan Chicken Thigh Fillets (GF)
kumera mash, broccolini, preserved lemon & olive sauce
Bangers and Mash
cumberland pork sausages, peas, onion gravy & mash
Crumbed Lamb Cutlets
mash, veg & gravy or minted yoghurt
Roast Lamb Rack (GF)
rosemary & garlic, salsa verde, asparagus, snow peas & potatoes
Roast Pork (Fri to Sun)
crackling, mash, baby carrots, peas & gravy
STEAKS
with chips & salad or mash & veg; mushroom sauce, green peppercorn sauce or Diane sauce
Wagyu Rump (GF)
350g marble score 5-6
Eye Fillet (GF)
260g yearling grass fed
Sirloin (GF)
250g yearling grass fed
KIDS
with ice cream
Ham & Pineapple Pizza
Chicken Nuggets & Chips
Penne Bolognese
DESSERT
with ice cream
Tiramisu
Sticky Date Pudding
Kids Ice Cream
PASTAS & SALADS
Grilled Chicken & Haloumi Salad (GFO)
prosciutto, semi-dried tomatoes, avocado, pine nuts, sourdough croutons, capsicum, Spanish onion & balsamic vinaigrette
Asian Lamb Salad (GF)
redcurrant marinade, lettuce, vermicelli, carrot, Spanish onion, cucumber, peanuts & nuoc cham dressing
Chicken Caesar Salad (GFO)
sourdough croutons, speck, parmesan, egg, half-dressed with house dressing
Vodka Rigatoni (VO)
tomato, cream, pancetta, parmesan, basil & bocconcini
King Prawn Linguine
garlic, lemon crumb, olive oil, chilli & rocket
BURGERS & SANDWICHES
with chips
Steak Sandwich
rocket, tomato, bacon, caramelised onion, aioli
Chicken Schnitzel Burger
avocado, tomato, slaw, bacon & sriracha mayo
Hamburger
cheese, bacon, lettuce, pickles, tomato, onion & special burger sauce
Grilled Haloumi Burger (V)
roast field mushrooms, tomato, lettuce, avocado & relish
PIZZAS
(GFO + $5)
Supreme
mozzarella, ham, pepperoni, mushroom, pineapple, capsicum, olives & egg
Garlic Prawn
pepperoni, Spanish onion, baby spinach & chilli oil
Meatlovers
pancetta, pepperoni, cabanossi, ground beef, Spanish onion & bbq sauce
Peri Peri Chicken
mushroom, capsicum, Spanish onion, tomato, peri peri sauce
Vegetarian (V)
tomato, mushroom, capsicum, eggplant, olives, Spanish onion, oregano & aioli
Margherita (V)
mozzarella, tomato sauce & basil
Extra Condiments
TRADIE’S ROLLS
Chicken Schnitzel Roll
with gravy
Roast Pork Roll
with crackling & gravy (Available Fri-Sun)
SAUCES
Gravy
Hot English Mustard
Mushroom Gravy (v)
Wholegrain Mustard
Peppercorn Gravy
Dijon Mustard
Garlic Butter
Horseradish
4. Railway Hotel
Railway Hotel is a South Melbourne pub with real history and a strong local identity. Located on Ferrars Street, it has the kind of classic Melbourne pub character that suits modern Australian pub food, beers, wine, open fires, a beer garden and relaxed neighbourhood dining.
This is a pub that works across the seasons. In winter, it suits cosy meals, fireside drinks and footy. In warmer weather, the beer garden gives it a more open, social feel. That flexibility makes it useful for regular locals and visitors looking for a proper South Melbourne pub.
The food offer sits in familiar pub territory: comforting mains, burgers, steaks, specials, snacks and meals designed for lunch, dinner and casual group visits. It is not trying to be a fine-dining restaurant; it is doing the useful work of a good pub.
Railway Hotel is especially handy for people around South Melbourne Market, Albert Park, Port Melbourne and the surrounding offices and apartments. It gives the area a proper local option for meals, drinks, functions and casual nights out.
Railway Hotel is best for classic pub food, beer garden sessions, fireside drinks, South Melbourne lunches, casual dinners, group meals, footy and relaxed local pub visits.
Address: 280 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne
Railway Hotel Menu
STARTERS
Ciabatta Garlic Bread
Freshly baked ciabatta, topped with garlic butter. Perfect for sharing. Add Cheese + $3
Crumbed Halloumi with Chilli Honey
Herbed crumbed halloumi fingers fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Served with a side of chilli honey. (4 per serve)
Pork Belly Bao Buns (GF)
Slices of crispy pork belly served in soft steamed bao buns with crunchy Asian slaw and house pickles. (2 per serve)
Calamari Entree (GFO)
Tender calamari, delicately coated in crispy Cajun rice flour & served with tartar sauce and a lemon wedge.
Mini Lamb Koftas with Naan and Tzatziki
House-spiced mini lamb koftas grilled and served with warm naan bread and a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired dish. (2 per serve)
Housemade Chicken Dumplings
Savour the tender, succulent filling of seasoned chicken, expertly blended with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, encased in delicate handmade wrappers.
Stir - Fried Teriyaki Beef (GF)
Tender slices of beef stir-fried in a rich teriyaki sauce, finished with garlic crisps and topped with fresh chilli, spring onion and Shallots.
Southern Fried Chicken Strips
Crispy fried chicken strips with a side of Korean gochujang chilli sauce, offering a sweet and spicy kick. (8 pieces )
House Made Sausage Rolls
Savour the comforting nostalgia of our house made sausage rolls. Our signature blend of pork sausage, delicately seasoned with a secret medley of herbs and spices, encased in flaky, buttery pastry, baked to golden.
PUB CLASSICS
Chicken Parmigiana
Tender chicken breast, breaded and grilled to golden perfection, topped with savoury Napoli sauce and a blend of cheeses. Served with chips & salad.
Chicken Schnitzel
Tender, boneless chicken breast, coated in a breadcrumb, and grilled to a golden crisp. Served with chips, slaw & a side of gravy.
Beer Battered Fish & Chips
Tender fillet of fish, coated in a light and airy beer batter. Served with traditional accompaniments including chips, salad, tartar sauce & zesty lemon wedge.
Main Serve Calamari (GFO)
Lightly battered in rice flour & seasoned with Cajun spice. Tossed with mixed leaves, red onion, corn & tomato. Dressed in a sweet chilli mayo.
Falafel Burger (VG) (GFO)
Vegan patty, lettuce, tomato and, pickles. Topped with ketchup. Served with chips.
Beef Burger (GFO)
House made black angus beef patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese & pickles. Topped with aioli & Ketchup. Served with chips.
Korean Chicken Burger
Crispy chicken with our house made Gochujang burger sauce placed in a soft bun with raw slaw and pickles. Served with chips.
House Specialties
Roast of the Day (GFO)
Rotating meat served with roasted vegetables, gravy & Yorkshire pudding.
Beef & Guinness Pie
Tender chunks of slow cooked beef, enveloped in a rich, velvety gravy infused with the deep, robust flavours of Ireland's iconic stout. Served with mash & gravy.
Chicken & Leek Pie
Tender chicken and leek sautéed in root vegetables, wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, and a rich gravy for a comforting and delicious meal.
Steak Sandwich
Grilled Porterhouse, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, cheese and a sunny side egg. Topped with caramelised onions and tomato relish, all served on toasted ciabatta. Served with chips. A hearty and flavour-packed classic! A hearty and flavour-packed classic!
Bangers & Mash(GF)
A rotating selection of premium sausages served with creamy mashed potato, steamed peas, sweet caramelised onions and finished with our house made rich gravy.
Lamb Shank (GF)
Red wine, rosemary & thyme braised lamb shank. Served on creamy mashed potato with rustic root vegetables in rich jus.
Grilled Salmon (GF)
Salmon grilled and served with broccolini, mashed potatoes and a house made creamy garlic sauce.
Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers (GF) (V)
Oven-roasted bell peppers packed with, rice, tomato, black beans, sweetcorn and herbs and spices, topped with melted cheese, sour cream and fresh coriander.
FROM THE PADDOCK
(Marble Score 2+).
Porterhouse 300g (GF)
This portion of steak is cut from the lower rib section of the cow, which lies close to the rear end, or loin. All Steaks served with: Mash & Green Beans or Hand Cut Chips &Salad.
Scotch Fillet 300g
The Scotch Fillet is regarded by many as the most flavoursome steak cut. This is due to the middle seam of fat marbling which significantly enhances the flavour. All Steaks served with: Mash & Green Beans or Hand Cut Chips &Salad.
Condiments
Mushroom Sauce, Pepper Sauce, Red Wine Jus, Chimichurri & Garlic Butter (GF)
Children's Menu
For under 11's
Sausage Rolls & Chip
Parma & Chips
Schnitzel & Chips
Linguini with Napoli sauce
Nuggets & Chips
Battered Fish & Chips
SIDES
Onion Rings
Bowl Of Chips
Tomato sauce & garlic roasted aioli
Buttered Beans & Broccolini (GF)
Garnished with Toasted Almonds and Glaze.
House Salad
Mashed Potatoes
Herb Roasted Potatoes
Slaw
DESSERTS
Sticky date pudding with orange caramel sauce.
House made Apple Pie & Ice Cream
COCKTAILS
Espresso Martini
Cosmopolitan
Aperol Spritz
Margarita
Negroni
long Island Ice- tea
Bramble
5. White Oaks Saloon
White Oaks Saloon brings a Southern American saloon feel to Greville Street in Prahran. It is more bar-and-saloon than traditional Australian hotel, but it earns a place in this guide because it works for the same kind of social pub occasions: drinks, food, groups, casual nights and a lively room.
The venue is built around Southern-style comfort, cocktails, beers, late-night energy and food that suits sharing. It is a good choice when you want something more playful than a standard pub but still relaxed enough for a casual night with friends.
White Oaks works especially well for Prahran nights out, birthdays, casual dates, weekend drinks, group dinners and people moving around Greville Street and Chapel Street. It has a stronger nightlife feel than many old-school pubs, which makes it useful when the night is more about atmosphere than a quiet meal.
The food and drink style also gives it a clear point of difference. Instead of trying to be a classic parma-and-pot pub, White Oaks leans into Southern-inspired food, cocktails and saloon character.
White Oaks Saloon is best for Southern-style bar food, cocktails, beers, Prahran nights out, group drinks, casual dinners and anyone looking for a lively saloon-style pub on Greville Street.
Address: 115–117 Greville Street, Prahran
White Oaks Saloon Menu
Starters
JALAPEÑO POPPERS
Crumbed green jalapeño chillies stuffed with three types of cheese and herbs served with a tabasco chipotle mayo.
HOUSE-MADE BLUE CORN CHIPS & TOMATO SALSA
House-made blue corn chips served with tomato salsa.
SOUTHERN QUESADILLA
Corn tortilla filled with Cajun chicken, black-eyed peas, dill pickle relish, cheese & BBQ chipotle sauce.
GEORGIAN CRAB CAKES (2)
Pan-fried house crab cakes served with a drizzle of Cajun aioli & pickled fennel.
BLUE CHEESE DEVIL ON HORSEBACK (3)
Classic blue cheese stuffed dates wrapped in smoked bacon & drizzled with honey.
To Share
SOUTHERN FRIED GREEN TOMATO TACOS (2)
Deep fried crumbed seasoned green tomatoes served with chipotle mayo on white corn tortillas.
BAJA FISH TACOS (2)
Baja style fish served with pico de gallo, cabbage, avocado, pickled onion, chipotle mayo served on white corn tortillas.
CAJUN CHICKEN TACOS (2)
Cajun spiced chicken with pico de gallo, cabbage, avocado & spicy mayo served on white corn tortillas.
CAROLINA-STYLE PORK SLIDERS
Twice-cooked pulled pork cooked with house-made BBQ sauce & served on a toasted potato bun with slaw.
BRISKET TACOS (2)
Slow cooked beef brisket, house-made salsa, pico de gallo, cabbage, coriander, avocado & spicy mayo served on white corn tortillas.
CAROLINA BBQ PULLED PORK CHIMICHANGA (2)
Slow cooked pulled pork, Carolina style BBQ marinated, green bell peppers, jalapeños & creole spices, wrapped & baked in a flour tortilla served with house-made salsa, sour cream & pico de gallo.
Mains
SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
Deep fried chicken crumbed in house spice, cooked till crispy.
SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN & WAFFLES
Deep fried chicken crumbed in spiced flour, cooked till crispy, served on our house-made waffles with a drizzle of maple syrup.
WHITE OAKS BBQ BURGER
Juicy 160g house beef patty grilled to perfection topped with melted Cheddar, smoky bacon, caramelised onions, crisp lettuce, tomato, and our signature burger sauce, all in a toasted brioche bun served & Cajun Fries.
SOUTHERN-STYLE CAULIFLOWER STEAK WITH SMOKEY KIWI CHIMICHURRI
Char-grilled cauliflower steak with smoky kiwi chimichurri.
PO' BOY
Buttermilk-fried shrimp tossed in Southern spices, stacked in a toasted milk hotdog bun with house-made roasted garlic & smoked paprika Creole mayo, pickled cucumber, crisp iceberg lettuce and ripe tomato & cajun fries.
TEXAS CHILI CON CARNE
Texas chilli con carne.
SWEET SOUTHERN BEEF RIBS
With pickled vegetables, coleslaw & choice of BBQ sauce (Louisiana / Carolina / Texas).
SOUTHERN PORTERHOUSE STEAK
Char-grilled 250g porterhouse cooked to your liking, served with crispy seasoned fries & your choice of house BBQ sauce, classic peppercorn cream or red wine jus.
WHITE OAKS SET MENU
A Southern sharing experience for two featuring crispy jalapeño poppers, your choice of signature tacos, our original fried chicken, and tender sweet Southern beef ribs. Served with Cajun-spiced fries and warm sweet jalapeño buttermilk cornbread.
Sides
CAJUN FRIES
Cajun seasoned fries served with house-made Tabasco mayo.
CREOLE ONION RINGS
Crispy onion rings seasoned in creole spices, served with a Cajun Tabasco mayo.
CHILI MAC & CHEESE
Classic mac & cheese cooked with three cheeses aged cheddar, gruyere, parmesan combined with a vegetarian chili con carne.
SWEET JALAPEÑO BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD
Muffin-shaped traditional polenta & corn-based buttermilk cornbread with candied jalapeño.
SOUTHERN GRILLED CORN
Grilled corn in southern spice, parmesan cheese and glazed in house-made mayo & lime.
CHARGRILLED BROCCOLINI
Served with confit garlic and lemon wedge.
SOUTHERN PEAR SALAD
Mixed salad greens, fresh pear, avocado, pecans, feta, southern salad dressing.
Desserts
KEY LIME PIE
A tangy, smooth filling made from fresh key lime juice served with vanilla whipped cream.
ATLANTA SALTED CARAMEL PECAN TART
Pecan pie with caramelized pecan filling with bourbon infused whipped cream.
COOKIE 'N' CREAM
Vanilla bean ice cream with Oreo cookie crumble swirl.
Mocktails
VIRGIN AMARETTO SOUR
Sweet marzipan, citrusy, creamy. Lyre’s Amaretti, fresh lemon juice, simple, aquafaba.
ORCHARD POIRE SOUR
Green fresh fruit, nutty, sweet. Pear & hazelnut reduction, fresh lemon juice, simple, aquafaba.
BLOODY SHIRAZ BANDWAGON FIZZ
Refreshing, floral, red fruits. Four Pillars Bandwagon Bloody Shiraz, fresh lemon juice, simple, aquafaba, soda.
Beer & Cider
PABST BLUE RIBBON PALE LAGER
Wisconsin, USA
STOMPING GROUND GIPPS ST US PALE ALE
Victoria, AUS
STONE & WOOD PACIFIC ALE
New South Wales, AUS
ROTATIONAL BEER TAP
Ask staff for current offering.
HEAPS NORMAL NON-ALC XPA
Victoria, AUS
LOUIS HARD APPLE CIDER
Victoria, AUS
NAPOLEONE PEAR CIDER
Victoria, AUS
BUDWEISER PALE LAGER
Missouri, USA
COORS PALE LAGER
Colorado, USA
SIERRA NEVADA PALE ALE
California, USA
GARAGE PROJECT ROTATIONAL
Wellington, NZ
TALL BOY & MOOSE ROTATIONAL
Victoria, AUS
BOATROCKER STOUT
Victoria, AUS
BODRIGGY FUZZY DANCE EXPLOSION HAZY TROPICAL SOUR
Victoria, AUS
ROTATING SEASONAL BEER
Ask staff for current offering.
Cocktails
MEZCAL NEGRONI
BEER A SMOKE
THE OAXACAN DEAD
TEQUILA OLD FASHIONED
MEZCAL PALOMA
COSTA VERANO BATCHED TEQUILA COCKTAIL
Jalisco, MX
Wine - Sparkling
PROSECCO, NV ALPHA BOX & DICE TAROT
South Australia, AUS
CHAMPAGNE, NV BILLECART SALMON
Champagne, FRA
Wine - White
PINOT GRIS, 2024 LIGHTHAND
Yarra Valley, VIC
CHARDONNAY, 2023 WENTE MORNING FOG
Livermore Valley, California
SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2024 PALMETTO
South Australia, Australia
RIESLING, 2025 RIESLINGFREAK NO. 3 DRY
Clare Valley, AUS
Wine - Rosé / Contact
ROSÉ, 2023 L'OLIBET CINSAULT
Languedoc, FRA
MUSCAT BLEND, 2023 DAS JUICE 'MACERATION' ORGANIC/BIODYNAMIC
McLaren Vale, AUS
Wine - Chilled Red
NERO D'AVOLA, 2024 UNICO ZELO FRESH AF
Riverland, South Australia
Wine - Red
PINOT NOIR, 2024 MEZZO
Limestone Coast, SA
TEMPRANILLO, 2022 VALDEMOREDA RIOJA
Rioja, ESP
SANGIOVESE, NERO D'AVOLA, SYRAH, 2023 MINIM 'BOURDAIN'
Castlemaine, VIC
SHIRAZ, 2025 ALPHA BOX & DICE VERY SPECIAL
McLaren Vale, South Australia
ZINFANDEL, 2021 WENTE BEYER RANCH
Livermore Valley, California
Wine - Dessert
FORTIFIED RIESLING, NV RIESLING FREAK NO. 7
Clare Valley, AUS
Something More
CAROLINA-STYLE PORK SLIDERS (3)
SOUTHERN FRIED GREEN TOMATO SLIDERS (3)
DEEP-FRIED SHRIMP SLIDERS (3)
SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
Cajun tabasco mayo.
BUFFALO CHICKEN
Jalapeno ranch.
CAJUN CHICKEN TACOS (3)
SOUTHERN FRIED GREEN TOMATO TACOS (3)
CAJUN FISH TACOS (3)
DEEP-FRIED SHRIMP TACOS (3)
SMOKEY SAUSAGE JAMBALAYA
CHICKEN PORK GUMBO
WHITE OAKS TASTING PLATE
Changes daily.
6. The King Hotel
The King Hotel is a CBD sports pub on the corner of King Street and Little Collins Street. It is built for people who want sport on screens, cold beer, pub classics and a central place to meet before, during or after a game.
The venue is especially useful for live sport. Whether the night is about AFL, UFC, football, basketball or a major event, The King Hotel has the right kind of pub identity: screens, atmosphere, specials, drinks and food that suits a crowd.
The menu direction is classic pub comfort: steaks, burgers, parmas, pizzas, small bites, drinks and weekly specials. It works well for work lunches, after-work drinks, casual dinners and groups who want something easy in the western end of the CBD.
The King Hotel is also practical because of its location. King Street and Little Collins Street put it close to Southern Cross Station, offices, hotels and the city’s business district, making it a useful meeting point for people coming from different directions.
The King Hotel is best for live sport, pub classics, steaks, burgers, parmas, pizzas, beers, after-work drinks and CBD group catch-ups near King Street.
Address: 120 King Street, Melbourne
The King Hotel Menu
SMALL BITES
Chilli Garlic Prawns
toasted garlic & herb bread, chilli garlic oil
Cheesy Garlic Bread (v)
add bacon +3
Glazed Buffalo Wings
choice of Frank's RedHot, honey soy or smokey BBQ sauce, dill pickle
Pork Belly Bites
sticky BBQ glaze, chimichurri (df)
Jalapeño Poppers
sriracha aioli (v)
Popcorn Chicken
sriracha aioli
Loaded Fries
chilli beef, bacon, jalapeños, cheese, spring onion
MAINS
Pan Seared Barramundi
chargrilled veggie stack, olive tapenade, herb oil, catalan sauce (gf, n)
Seafood Linguine
barramundi, calamari, prawns, clams, pippies, chilli, garlic, lemon
Beef Brisket
charred broccolini, glazed Dutch carrots, sweet potato purée, rosemary & thyme jus, salsa verde (gf)
Forest Mushroom Gnocchi
mushroom ragu, smoked truffle, pine nuts, goats cheese (v, n)
CLASSICS
Chicken Parma
napoli, ham, mozzarella, chips, salad, tomato sauce
Chicken Schnitzel
chips, salad, choice of peppercorn, mushroom or gravy
Fish & Chips
beer battered barramundi, chips, salad, lemon, tartare (gfo)
Lemon Pepper Calamari
chips, salad, lemon, aioli (gfo, df)
Steak Sandwich
porterhouse steak, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion rings, BBQ sauce, aioli, chips, tomato sauce
Beef Burger
beef patty, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, BBQ sauce, aioli, chips, tomato sauce
FROM THE GRILL
all steaks are premium grass fed from Southern Ranges
300g Scotch Fillet
250g Porterhouse
Surf & Turf Topper
sautéed tiger prawns & squid strips, cooked in creamy garlic sauce
PIZZAS 12”
gluten free base +3 vegan cheese +3
Chorizo & Prawn
Spanish onion, zucchini, feta, mozzarella, chilli
Smokey BBQ
slow cooked beef, bacon, Spanish onion, mozzarella, smokey BBQ sauce
Peri Peri Chicken
cherry tomatoes, spinach, red onion, napoli, mozzarella, chimichurri mayo
Kings Margherita
campari tomatoes, oregano, pesto, basil, semi dried tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella (v, n)
SALADS
chicken +5 beef strips +6 prawns +6
Roast Pumpkin & Halloumi
caramelised fennel, cherry tomatoes, figs, baby spinach, rocket, toasted pecans, lemon mustard vinaigrette (gf, v, n)
Summer Salad
avocado, beetroot, black beans, jalapeños, toasted cashews, feta, molasses vinaigrette (gf, v, n)
SIDES
Onion Rings
sriracha aioli (v)
Cauliflower Bites
sweet & spicy ginger glaze (v)
Garden Salad (gf, ve)
Seasonal Vegetables (gf, v, veo)
Chips
tomato sauce, aioli (v, veo)
Wedges
sweet chilli, sour cream (v, veo)
DESSERT
Apple Crumble
caramel sauce, vanilla bean ice cream (v)
HAPPY HOUR
MON - THURS 4PM-6PM FRI 4PM-7PM
Carlton Draught Pint
$10
Cider Pint
$10
Jetty Road Pale Ale Pint
$10
House Wines
$7.5
House Cocktails
$15
SPARKLING
GLASS BTL
The Riddle Sparkling Brut, McLaren Vale SA
10 44
Pizzini Prosecco, King Valley Victoria
13 62
Paul Louis Blanc de Blancs, Loire Valley France
68
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, Reims France
145
WHITE WINE
150ml 250ml BTL
The Riddle Chardonnay, McLaren Vale SA
10 15 44
Deakin Estate Moscato, South Eastern Australia
10.5 16 47
Vickery Riesling, Clare Valley SA
11.5 18.5 54
Black Cottage Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough NZ
12 19 56
Seedling Pinot Gris, Hilltops NSW
13 21 62
ROSÉ
Nick Spencer Rosé, Gundagai NSW
12.5 20 59
Artea Rosé, Alpes-De-Haute France
13 21 62
RED WINE
The Riddle Shiraz, McLaren Vale SA
10 15 44
Mojo 03 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra SA
11.5 18.5 54
Rob Dolan ‘True Colours’ Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley Victoria
12 19 56
Seedling Shiraz, Hilltops NSW
12.5 20 59
Moments of Clarity Shiraz, Barossa Valley SA
13.5 22 65
COCKTAILS
Espresso Martini
Vanilla Vodka / Baileys / White Chocolate Liqueur / Coffee
Limoncello Spritz
Limoncello / Prosecco / Soda / Lemon
Piña Colada
Malibu / Coconut Cream / Pineapple Juice
Pornstar Martini
Vanilla Vodka / Passao / Prosecco / Passionfruit Purée / Lime
Spicy Tommy's Margarita
Don Julio Blanco / Agave Syrup / Chilli / Lime
COCKTAIL JUGS
Blue Lagoon
Blue Curaçao / Vodka / Lemonade / Orange / Maraschino Cherries
Pimm’s
Pimm’s / Gin / Dry Ginger Ale / Lemonade / Cucumber / Mint / Lime / Oranges / Strawberries
Strawberry Lemonade
Strawberry Liqueur / Vanilla Vodka / Lemonade / Lemon / Strawberries
Watermelon Mojito
Watermelon Liqueur / White Rum / Soda / Mint / Lime
7. Kent Hotel
Kent Hotel is a Carlton North pub on Rathdowne Street with a heritage feel and a strong neighbourhood role. It gives the area a polished local option for pub meals, drinks, functions, lunches and dinners without losing the warmth of a classic Melbourne hotel.
The pub works well because it balances comfort and quality. It is suitable for a casual drink, but also for a proper meal with friends or family. That makes it useful for locals who want a dependable pub rather than a venue that only works for big nights out.
Kent Hotel suits Carlton North’s rhythm well: relaxed lunches, weeknight dinners, weekend catch-ups, family meals, wine, beers and neighbourhood gatherings. It is the kind of pub where the setting matters because it feels settled into the suburb.
The Rathdowne Street address also makes it a useful partner to The Great Northern nearby, but with a slightly different feel. Where The Great Northern is strongly associated with beer garden and sport energy, Kent Hotel leans more toward polished local dining and heritage pub comfort.
Kent Hotel is best for Carlton North pub dining, relaxed lunches, family meals, wine, beers, neighbourhood dinners, functions and anyone looking for a heritage-style local pub on Rathdowne Street.
Address: 370 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North
Kent Hotel Menu
STARTERS
Housemade sourdough
olive butter
Oysters
shucked to order, apple mignonette, lemon & tabasco (gf)
Pumpkin & taleggio arancini
Calabrian chilli aioli, sage & pecorino (4) (v, cbgf)
Charcuterie
San Daniele 20 month proscuitto, Saison black truffle salami, Mr Cannubi breasola, pickles, chutney & toasted sourdough.
Kingfish ceviche
rockmelon, radish, shallot, chilli & smoked caviar (gf)
Chargrilled corner inlet calamari
sauce vierge, fennel salad (gf)
Burrata
asparagus, new season peas, tendrils & green goddess (v, cbgf, cbve)
Prawn cocktail
spicy marie rose, iceberg, cukes, avocado, fingerlime (gf)
PUB CLASSICS
Chicken Parmigiana
tomato sugo, smoked ham, cheddar, mozzarella, hand cut chips, mixed leaf salad, honey mustard dressing (eggplant option, cbve)
Beer battered fish
hand cut chips, mixed leaf salad, honey mustard dressing, tartar & malt vinegar
Cheeseburger & chips
burger sauce, American & gruyère cheese, bbq onion, dill pickles, gem lettuce & CWA tomato chutney (add bacon +4) (cbgf)
Roast Bannockburn chicken
charred sweet corn & zucchini, spring onion salsa, & tarragon jus (gf)
French ravioli
aged comté & ricotta, heirloom pumpkin, brown butter, salt bush & hazelnuts (v)
FROM THE GRILL
250g Striploin
MB2 Bass Strait, pasture fed, VIC & TAS (gf)
200g Eye fillet
MB3 Cape Grim, pasture fed, TAS (gf)
300g Scotch fillet
MB4 The Wanderer, free range barley fed, VIC & NSW (gf)
500g Wagyu rump
MB7, Westholme, grain fed, MB7, QLD & NT (gf)
800g T-Bone
Vintage beef company, pasture fed, MB3, VIC & TAS (gf)
400g Sher wagyu striploin
MB8, grain fed, VIC (gf)
1.2kg – 1.5kg Tomahawk
O’Connor, pasture fed VIC (gf)
400g Club steak
O’Connor, pasture fed, VIC (35 days dry aged) (gf)
600g Rib eye
O’Connor, pasture fed, VIC (35 days dry aged) (gf)
SIDES
Handcut chips & garlic aioli
(gf, v)
Potato salad
horseradish crème fraiche, capers, cornichons, chive & dill (cvgf, v)
BBQ hispi cabbage
Calabrian chilli butter, buttermilk, lemon pangratatto (v)
Mixed leaf salad
fennel, radish & honey mustard (gf, v)
Green beans
ajo blanco & chimichurri (v, gf, n)
Greek salad
Meredith goats fetta, lemon dressing, dill, mint & oregano (v, cbve, gf)
Beetroot salad
labne, red mizuna, almond dukkah, green pepper zhoug (v, cbve, gf, n)
KIDS MENU
Cheeseburger & chips
milkbun, cheddar & tomato sauce
Fish & chips
lemon & kewpie mayo
Chicken schnitzel & chips
tomato sauce
Macaroni
tomato sugo, parmesan cheese (v)
Chocolate sundae
Strawberry sundae
DESSERT
Chocolate fudge layer cake
whipped cream & cherries
Apple pie
salted caramel & vanilla ice cream
Basque cheesecake
mascapone, ANZAC & passionfruit (cbgf)
Coconut sorbet
pineapple & spiced rum compote, finger lime (v, gf)
Fromage
spiced figs, quince, pickled walnuts & Cheeseboard crackers Brillat Savarin triple cream brie & Charles Arnaud reserve comte 36 month
Final word
The best pubs in Melbourne cover more than one kind of pub experience. The Irish Times Pub is the CBD choice for Irish pub atmosphere and central pints. The Graham Hotel is the Port Melbourne option for polished gastropub dining. The Great Northern Hotel is the Carlton North favourite for beer garden sessions, pub classics and live sport. Railway Hotel is the South Melbourne classic for heritage pub comfort, fireside drinks and beer garden meals. White Oaks Saloon brings Southern-style saloon energy to Prahran. The King Hotel is the CBD pick for live sport, pub food and after-work drinks. Kent Hotel is the Rathdowne Street option for polished neighbourhood pub dining.
Together, they show why Melbourne’s pub scene is so useful: it can be old-school, polished, sporty, heritage-driven, beer-garden friendly, Irish, saloon-style or deeply local. Whether you want a pint in the CBD, a family pub meal, a proper Sunday roast, a beer garden afternoon or somewhere to watch the game, Melbourne has a pub that fits the plan.