Pubs Archives

Thorpdale Pub Transforms Into West Gippsland’s First Distillery

There's something ineffably special about a country pub—the way it serves as the beating heart of small regional towns, a meeting place for locals to share stories over a schooner, and a welcome respite for weary travellers passing through. When news spread about the devastating fire that tore through Thorpdale's Traveller's Rest in 2017, a…

6 March 2025ByBen Tyers

News Pubs

Sorrento’s Hotel Gets a Sky-High Upgrade with New Rooftop Bar

The iconic Hotel Sorrento is set to transform the Mornington Peninsula's dining scene with the launch of its stunning new rooftop bar and restaurant. Inspired by the glamorous rooftop scenes of Saint-Tropez, the new venue promises panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, blending contemporary design with the hotel's historic charm. Director Myles Pitt describes it…

14 December 2024ByJohn Taylor

Pubs Victoria

How Romsey Got Its Pub Back

It usually takes decades of residency or generational legacy to be considered a true local in small country towns. But husband and wife pub owners Alex and Ashleigh Gorman fast-tracked their local status by taking over not one but two country pubs in northwest Victoria and entrenching themselves in their adopted community. “We bought the…

20 November 2024ByPhoebe Hartley

Pubs Victoria

Japanese Dining Pop-Up Coming to Portsea Hotel This Summer

The iconic Portsea Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula is set to host a refined Japanese dining experience this summer. From 3-19 January 2024, the historic venue will transform its secluded Bertrand Bar into an intimate pop-up, featuring a set-menu by Chef Yukio Ozeki of Towsville’s acclaimed Terasu restaurant. With a breathtaking backdrop of Port Phillip…

6 November 2024ByJohn Taylor

Pubs

Where to Find the Best Country Pubs in Victoria

If you're travelling around the state of Victoria, there's no doubt at some point you're going to need to make a stop for a rock-solid parma, or a pot of the coldest beer available—and for that, you're going to need a pub. And why not get one at one of the best country pubs in…

27 October 2024ByBen Tyers

Pubs Victoria

The Best Pubs in the Yarra Valley

Amidst the picturesque landscapes of Victoria's Yarra Valley, a haven of Yarra Valley pubs awaits, each embracing the region's unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary excellence. Beyond the renowned vineyards and sweeping vistas, the Yarra Valley boasts an inviting array of pubs, some even dog-friendly. These Yarra Valley pubs are more than mere…

25 October 2024ByBen Tyers

Food & Drink Pubs South Australia

Where to Find the Best Parmis in Country South Australia

Editors note: I have absolutely no interest in getting into the parma/parmi debate. That's your business. The abbreviations or slang used in articles on The Local Rag are true to the author of the article you're reading. Nothing quite beats hitting up your local and getting stuck into a pint and a parmi. Whether your…

22 October 2024ByTobias Handke

Pubs

Where to Find the Best Country Pubs in New South Wales

If you’re travelling around the state of New South Wales, there’s no doubt at some point you’re going to need to make a stop for a rock-solid parma, or a pot of the coldest beer available—and for that, you’re going to need a pub.

1 October 2024ByBen Tyers

Pubs

The Best Country Pubs for Sale in Australia Right Now

Many of us have dreamed of owning and tending bar at our very own pub in the country. And that reality could come true sooner rather than later if you buy one of these country pubs for sale right now. Country pubs in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, and the rest of Australia can often…

19 September 2024ByBen Tyers

Pubs Victoria

The Best Pub on the Mornington Peninsula Is Nowhere Near the Beach

In a region where pubs swing between gentrified bistros or pokie-ridden saloons, the Mornington Peninsula's options for a classic tavern are few and far between. However, if you travel up past the hills Arthurs Seat into Main Ridge you'll find The Pig & Whistle. Not related to the Queensland chain nor the outpost with a…

12 August 2024BySimon Cassar

Pubs South Australia

The Best Pubs in Mount Gambier

Take a short detour off the famed Great Ocean Road and you’ll find yourself in the flourishing Mount Gambier, South Australia’s second-largest city that sits halfway between Adelaide and Melbourne. Smack bang in the middle of the Limestone Coast, Mount Gambier is frequented by those keen on discovering the spectacular natural landscapes the region is…

24 July 2024ByTobias Handke

Pubs South Australia

The Best Pubs in the Adelaide Hills

Most people visit the Adelaide Hills to sample the incredible vino the region has to offer. Shaw + Smith, Longview Vineyard, Golding Wines, Bird in Hand… I could go on, but you get the picture. Adelaide Hills equals good wine. But for those who prefer the amber nectar or the more relaxed vibe of a…

20 July 2024ByTobias Handke

New South Wales Pubs

Inside the Iconic Pub With the Tallest Bar in the Southern Hemisphere

The Black Stump Hotel, an unassuming pub in Merriwagga, New South Wales is shrouded in outback mythology and local folklore. There’s the tale of how the pub got its name; a woman named Barbara Blaine who burned alive in 1886 in the area, whose husband reportedly said “looked like a black stump”, or it could be because the surrounding area is known colloquially as “Black…

22 June 2024ByEm Jensen

Pubs Victoria

Regional Victoria Pubs Win Big at the 2024 AHA State Awards

In what will not be a massive surprise to readers of The Local Rag, pubs from around regional Victoria have come out on top in the annual AHA State Awards for Excellence. The awards night took place on May 20 at Crown Palladium and saw awards across plenty of categories including Excellence in Service, Chef…

21 May 2024ByBen Tyers

Pubs Victoria

This Is the Best Pub in Country Victoria

Editor's Note: What follows is what I truly think about Trentham's Cosmopolitan Hotel. Given its mix of location, historical significance, food and beverage options, and incredible beer garden, it is very easy to say that it is the best pub in Victoria—it could even be the best pub in Australia. Having said that, I do…

15 May 2024ByBen Tyers

Pubs

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