As we find ourselves well land truly gripped by a frosty Melbourne winter, it’s time to batten down the hatches, rug up and find a cosy nook to keep warm in.What better way to escape the cold than with a hearty meal or Sunday roast in a cosy pub?
Here are some of Melbourne’s most popular hotspots for a nourishing winter Sunday sesh*.
Great Northern Hotel, Carlton North
Carlton North icon The Great Northern Hotel’s Sunday Roast is certainly a culinary mainstay for locals. The generous helpings of fresh quality produce are complemented with a wine list, and a roaring open sandstone fireplace that will ensure you lose yourself in a warm, welcoming dining atmosphere; easily forgetting the chilly winter weather outside.
Marquis of Lorne, Fitzroy
If you’re looking for a warm retreat on a cold winter’s day that’s getting amongst that buzzy Fitzroy atmosphere, Marquis of Lorne is the place to go. This exceptionally cool, kitschy pub has a classic bar downstairs with a cute and cosy dining room on the upper level. If your ideal Sunday evening involves a plate filled with juicy roasted meat alongside perfectly roasted veggies washed down with a beer, then this is the spot for you!
Republica, St Kilda
Republica St Kilda Beach serves up laid back dining and drinks beachside. This unique ocean setting invites you to soak up the vibe in the grassy courtyard, enjoy live tunes on the weekends and pretend it’s summer again in St Kilda’s sandy backyard. If it is just a bit chilly, not a problem – head on inside and sit by the fireplace and enjoy some warm, rich and hearty winter fare.
The Wolf And I, Windsor
A pub with a gritty industrial edge and mood lighting everywhere you look, the Wolf and I serves refined traditional pub dishes with flare. The food has a Scandinavian influence and the fit out is bright with vintage and designer decor. This is a great place for a rich winter warming meal accompanied by a specialty imported beer.
Grace Darling Hotel, Collingwood
At 180 years young, The Grace Darling Hotel is Melbourne’s second oldest pub and a Collingwood institution. With its dramatic bluestone walls, crackling fireplaces and delectable winter menu, the Grace Darling is a quintessential cold weather pub as well as a legend on the Collingwood live music scene.
*This article is based on Uber data detailing the most visited Melbourne pubs on Sunday afternoons.