Top-Rated Pubs Near Melbourne Everyone Is Talking About This Season
From iconic Fitzroy favourites to country pubs serving the kind of meals you’ll think about for days, these are the top-rated pubs near Melbourne everyone is talking about right now.
There’s something uniquely comforting about a great pub. Maybe it’s the clink of glasses, the smell of something delicious coming out of the kitchen, or that unmistakable mix of warmth and chatter that makes you instantly feel like you belong. Melbourne has always been known for its pub culture, but this season, both locals and weekend travellers have been buzzing about a mix of city favourites and regional gems that deserve a spot on your list.
Top-Rated Pubs Near Melbourne Everyone Is Talking About This Season
1. The Lincoln, Carlton
The Lincoln is one of those pubs that gets everything right without trying too hard. It’s cosy, polished and absolutely delicious. The menu feels familiar but modern, the portions are always generous and the atmosphere remains one of the friendliest in Carlton. Whether you’re popping in for a quick midweek dinner or settling in for a relaxed Sunday session, it’s reliably brilliant. People don’t just visit The Lincoln — they become regulars.
2. The Napier Hotel, Fitzroy
Walk into The Napier and you instantly understand why it’s a Fitzroy icon. It’s full of character, slightly eclectic and never pretentious. Their parmas are the stuff of legend, especially the ones piled high with smoky toppings that feel wonderfully Aussie. The plates are hearty, the portions are generous and the service feels genuinely warm. If Melbourne had to choose a single “true local pub,” this one would be in the running.
3. The Commercial Hotel, Warragul
Regional pubs don’t always get the spotlight they deserve, but The Commercial Hotel in Warragul absolutely earns its place. This pub is loved for its huge servings, classic country hospitality and a menu that balances old-school favourites with fresh ideas. The steaks come out perfectly cooked, the schnitzels are massive and the sides taste like someone in the kitchen actually grew up cooking them. It’s the sort of pub where the staff remember you and the meals always feel worth the drive.
4. Golden Age Hotel, Beaufort
A must-include and truly one of Victoria’s standout country pubs. The Golden Age Hotel is warm, welcoming and wonderfully generous in every way. You get that relaxed small-town vibe the moment you walk in, and the meals are exactly what you hope for — flavour-packed, comforting and absolutely enormous. From crispy schnitzels to juicy steaks and the kind of homemade desserts that feel nostalgic, everything tastes like it’s made with pride. People rave about the service, and honestly, it’s some of the friendliest you’ll find anywhere. Whether you're passing through or making a special trip, it’s a pub that stays with you.
5. The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine
Castlemaine’s food scene has been quietly impressive for years, and The Bridge Hotel is one of the town’s biggest stars. It has that perfect balance of rustic charm and creative flair. The menu changes with the seasons and always feels fresh, hearty and unpretentious. The leafy beer garden is a favourite for long afternoons, and the atmosphere has that easy-going, artistic Castlemaine feel. If you love pubs with personality, you’ll adore this one.
6. The Grand Oaks Hotel, Ballarat
Clean, spacious and always welcoming, The Grand Oaks Hotel has become a regional favourite for families, locals and road-trippers alike. The food is classic pub fare done extremely well — think crunchy parmas, tender roasts, big burgers and chips that somehow disappear faster than you expect. Everything feels comforting, filling and cooked with genuine care. It’s the type of pub you visit thinking you’ll stay for one drink, and then suddenly it’s dark and you’ve ordered dessert.
7. The Royal Hotel, Daylesford
Daylesford is known for its charming eateries, and The Royal Hotel fits right into that picture. This beautifully restored country pub delivers hearty meals, warm service and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a slow weekend escape. The dishes are familiar and comforting, from perfectly fried schnitzels to winter-friendly bowls of goodness. It’s elegant without being fancy, and the overall experience feels like a breath of country air.
8. The Fox Hotel, Collingwood
Back in the inner suburbs, The Fox remains a go-to for good reason. It has an energetic yet relaxed vibe, a rooftop that fills up quickly and food that consistently hits the mark. They’re well-known for generous servings, great burgers and a rotating craft beer list that keeps things fun. It’s a brilliant pick for group catch-ups, casual dinners or nights where you simply want a pub that never disappoints.
9. The Standard Hotel, Fitzroy
Few beer gardens in Melbourne are as beloved as The Standard’s. Hidden, leafy and full of character, it’s the perfect spot for long chats, laughter and plates of comforting pub classics. The atmosphere manages to feel lively and laid-back at the same time. People come for the parmas and burgers but stay for the relaxed, neighbourly vibe that makes Fitzroy feel like a big shared backyard.
10. The Great Northern Hotel, Carlton North
Dog lovers know this pub well — and even if you don’t have a furry mate, the huge beer garden and sunny atmosphere make it a crowd favourite. The Great Northern serves reliable, satisfying meals and pours one of the most generous beer selections around. It’s breezy, casual and especially perfect on warm days. If you’re after a relaxed local with all the right energy, this one hits the spot.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing a warm country pub with massive servings or a cosy inner-city spot buzzing with locals, this season’s top-rated pubs near Melbourne offer a bit of everything. Each one has its own charm — a mix of great meals, friendly service and that familiar comfort only a true pub can deliver. From Castlemaine to Carlton and Warragul to Fitzroy, these venues have earned their place by doing what great pubs do best: serving up good food, cold drinks and a whole lot of heart. So grab your mates, pick a destination and enjoy the best pub experiences Victoria has to offer.