Top 10 Pubs in Geelong (2026 Guide) | Searoad Ferries

Located southwest of Melbourne and just less than an hour’s drive from Searoad Ferries Queenscliff terminal, Geelong is perfectly positioned as both a stopover and a destination in its own right. Its waterfront charm, paired with a culinary landscape bursting with diverse flavours and lively pub culture, makes the city a hotspot for tourists and foodies alike. The best pubs to eat in Geelong offer diverse experiences that every type of foodie can enjoy, from heritage hotels serving hearty pub classics to modern gastropubs with creative menus.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best pubs in Geelong that deliver not only great food and drinks but also unforgettable experiences that make each venue worth visiting.

Best Pubs in Geelong for Lunch & Dinner

1.

The Great Western Hotel

The Great Western Hotel is one of Geelong’s most iconic pubs and a local favourite known for its hearty pub meals and spacious beer garden. The modern bistro is an inviting space for guests who want to catch up for a casual lunch, watch the footy on the screen, or unwind over a cold beer after work.

What You Should Try:

Steak served with chips and salad or mashed potatoes and vegetables, sauce of your choice, peppercorn, creamy mushroom, or whipped garlic butter
Slow-braised lamb shank
Beef burger
Potato wedges

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Dining at The Great Western Hotel feels like a true Aussie pub experience: warm, relaxed, and buzzing with energy. The bistro area is spacious and family-friendly, while the bar buzzes with locals and sports fans. Service is friendly and portions are generous, with the menu focusing on classic comfort food done right.

Address: 177 Aberdeen St, Newtown VIC 3220

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 1 AM (Monday to Wednesday), 10 AM to 2 AM (Thursday to Saturday), 10 AM to 12 AM (Sunday)

What People Have to Say:

“Great pub and great food. Service is fantastic and the staff are very friendly and happy. If you're after lambs fry and bacon this is the perfect place to go. Great little pub.” — Ian S.

“Great vibe from the moment I walked in.Meal decent portion for the price and tasted great, could tell quality ingredients were used, cheese was fresh and Chicken done right.” — Jake A.

“For a family-friendly pub, it's pretty good at delivering. There's some distractions for the kids & a nice hub-bub of chatter in the background. The food was certainly worth a visit. Staff are efficient & helpful.” — Jennifer M.

2.

Malt Shovel Taphouse

Malt Shovel Taphouse has earned a spot among the best pubs in Geelong for dinner and lunch, thanks to its wide range of craft beers, hearty Australian dishes, and a vibrant yet comfy atmosphere. Located in the heart of Geelong, this venue emphasises quality, flavour and choice, making it a go-to for beer lovers, foodies and social catch-ups alike.

What You Should Try:

Calamari served with hibachi yum yum sauce
Pulled rotisserie chicken, chipotle mayo, and slaw served with chips
Feast platter, made of Murray Valley roasted pork, house-seasoned roasted chicken, medium rare pasture-fed striploin, baby chat potatoes and roasted seasonal vegetables
Grilled lamb cutlets served with eggplant mash and warm mustard jus
Beer paddles (your choice of four tap beers served on a paddle)
Tap cocktails, spirits, and spritz cocktails

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Stepping into Malt Shovel Taphouse, you’ll notice immediately the focus on craft beer and quality food. The large bar area houses a rotating roster of craft brews, and the dining space features comfortable seating, modern finishes and an inviting ambience. The venue caters well for groups, has plenty of beer-garden energy, and the service is friendly and attentive. On busy nights, it can fill up, so booking ahead is advisable.

Address: 7-21 Bellerine St, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: From 11 AM to late (Monday to Sunday)

What People Have to Say:

“The food is AMAZING, one of the best meals I've had in Geelong. Their selection of beers is really impressive, and seeing so many local, Little Creature beers on tap is great.” — Justin

“Well designed pub and great atmosphere. Loved the feel. Ordered burgers. A chicken and beef. Both were top class and I could see the effort to make it. Dips as entree. Very nice. Service was excellent. Very attentive.” — Trevor

“It was an absolute delight to visit this establishment. The service and friendliness was refreshing. You felt welcomed by all the staff. The food was delicious. It made for a very enjoyable evening. We will be back again for sure.” — Wendy R.

Take the Scenic Route to the Bellarine Peninsula with Searoad Ferries:

Skip the long drive and enjoy a leisurely 40-minute ferry ride from Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula to Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula. With comfortable lounge areas, viewing decks, onboard cafés and bars, a children’s playground, and the chance to spot dolphins along the way, Searoad Ferries turns travel into part of your pub-hopping adventure.

Classic & Historic Pubs in Geelong

3.

. Sawyers Arms Tavern

Also fondly called “Clats” by the locals, Sawyers Arms Tavern is one of Geelong’s oldest hotels, with roots dating back to 1850. Over time, it's become more than just a classic pub. It offers a range of dining zones that are also known as some of the best restaurants in Geelong, including an Asian fine dining restaurant and a European-style bistro.

What You Should Try:

Crumbed lamb cutlets served with mash, beans, and a side of jus
Beef cheek in red wine with a celeriac puree, Dutch carrots, and burnt butter fennel salad
Eye fillet
Sawyers hand crumbed classic chicken parmigiana with sugo, smoked ham, and cheddar cheese, chips, and salad

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Dining at Sawyers Arms Tavern is like stepping into a place that honours tradition. The rooms feel warm and inviting, with banquet-style seating, soft lighting, and a crackling fireplace in cooler months. There’s also enough variety in spaces to suit a lively group or a quiet evening, perfect for casual lunches, family meals, or special dinners.

Address: 2 Noble St, Newtown, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: Open daily from 12 PM

What People Have to Say:

“Good selection, including lunch specials. The food is generally good with good portions. Nice warm place with firewood to keep the place comfortable.” — Jean T.

“If you’re after a classic British-style pub experience in Geelong, the Sawyer Arms Tavern is the place to go. The service here is top-notch, too. Friendly, efficient, and genuinely helpful, making the whole experience even better. They’ve also got a surprisingly great wine list for a pub, so there’s something to suit every taste.” — Mitch K.

“A menu to satisfy every taste, unsurpassed quality of food and presentation, an extremely well curated wine list, a wonderfully warm and cozy English country pub ambience and smiling, friendly staff whose sole purpose seems to be to make every guest feel welcome and special. Wonderful!” — Garth C.

4.

Queen of the West

In the heart of Pakington Street lies a pub that strikes a balance between old-school pub charm and modern family-friendly dining. Queen of the West offers a menu full of classic pub fare, pizzas, parmigianas, roasts, and kid-friendly options.

What You Should Try:

Parmigiana (traditional, vegetarian, or Mexican)
Woodfired pizza (garlic cheese, margarita, diavola, capricciosa, prosciutto di parma, porcini mushroom, Hawaiian, The Sally, or The Queen)

What It’s Like Dining Here:

At Queen of the West, you feel the buzz of a neighbourhood pub. During lunch, you’ll see families with kids, locals catching up over beers, and casual diners sampling pizzas or schnitzels. The beer garden provides a welcoming place to soak up the sun over drinks, especially when the weather’s good. On Friday and Saturday nights, the pub comes alive with live music, making it the perfect spot to savour a meal while catching up with friends.

Address: 126 Pakington St, Geelong West VIC 3218

Opening Hours: 4 PM (Tuesday to Thursday), 11:30 AM (Friday to Sunday)

What People Have to Say:

“We had a wonderful and memorable evening, the food was absolutely divine and delicious. We had cocktail finger food including wood fired pizza’s which was plenty. The staff were very friendly and accommodating and we can’t thank them enough for making our night memorable. The venue was clean and perfect for our celebration.” — Santo A.

“Great lunch for a quiet Saturday. Fantastic range of drinks and was coeliac safe. Kids area was a huge plus and sitting outside during winter was actually pleasant, would definitely come back here!” — Viv

“Great venue, a good variety of spaces. Were very accomodating for a recent event. Lovely pub meals, good service even during busy periods. Highly recommend!” — Kim F.

Best Waterfront Pubs in Geelong

5.

Sailors’ Rest

Sailors’ Rest has been on our list of best restaurants in Geelong, and for all the right reasons. Located right on the waterfront overlooking Corio Bay, it welcomes guests to its multi-level building, with each floor providing a different experience. But one thing stays consistent: locally sourced seafood, welcoming service, and an atmosphere that makes every visit feel memorable.

What You Should Try:

Fish and chips with garden salad and tartare sauce
Crumbed calamari with chips, salad, and tartare sauce
Chicken Parmi with ham, Napoli sauce, mozzarella, and a side of chips and salad
Fettuccine marinara with scallops, prawns, mussels, calamari, garlic, chilli, and Napoli sauce
100% wagyu beef burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, Swiss cheese, and served with chips with tomato sauce, mayonnaise, and mustard

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Unwind in the indoor light-filled dining room or go for bayside al fresco seating where the waterfront views set the tone for a leisurely meal. The Beer Garden and rooftop bar are perfect for a casual catch-up over cocktails and bar snacks. For something a little more elevated, make your way to the second-floor lounge. Here, you can jam to the music with local DJs gracing the stage every Friday and Saturday evening.

Address: 3 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: The restaurant is open every day from 11 AM until late. The lounge and rooftop are open from 3 PM on Friday and 1 PM on weekends.

What People Have to Say:

“Great location just across the beach, making it a perfect spot for a meal with a view. The menu has a great selection of food and drinks. I was pleasantly surprised by the seafood platter. Generous portions and incredibly fresh seafood. Service was quick and efficient.” — Erick T.

“The food & drinks were amazing, well priced and big portions. The service was wonderful.” — Emily T.

“Fabulous staff, great seating options. Large menu with something for everyone.” — Manda B.

6.

The Deck Geelong

The Deck is one of Geelong's premier dining destinations, perfectly combining lively nightlife with hearty pub fare. Their extensive menu features a selection of large-portioned pub food, coupled with small plates, snacks, and cocktails. Its central location and energetic vibe make it one of the go-to places to eat in Geelong.

What You Should Try:

Parmi (traditional, creamy mushroom schnitzel, eggplant parmi, HSP-inspired parmi, Hawaiian, BBQ bacon, Mexican, or parmi of the month)
Pizza (margherita, Hawaiian, BBQ chicken, Mediterranean, creamy carbonara)
Wagyu rump steak

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Dining at The Deck is casual and social. It’s never overly fancy, but it’s reliable for a fun pub dinner. The second floor is a private function space that offers a panoramic view of the Geelong waterfront, making it a popular choice for parties, events, and special occasions.

Address: 2-4 Gheringhap St, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: Opens every day, from 4PM (Monday to Wednesday) and from 12pm (Thursday to Sunday)

What People Have to Say:

“Great place to go to after work for a drink and a meal. Very reasonably priced and easy to get to close to the waterfront in Geelong.” — Charlie P.

“Hats off to the friendly staff. It has cozy indoor and outdoor seating with multiple levels and balconies. The food was pub meals, but decent.” — Sab A.

“I love a pub meal and it has been a long time since I had a really really good proper pub feed. The food here is excellent. I mean really really excellent to the point that i am leaving this review (which i never bother doing).” — Lans T.

Best Live Music Pubs in Geelong

7.

Murphy’s

Built in 1855, Murphy’s was dubbed the “Original Meeting Place” for community affairs and the birthplace of the Geelong Cats Football Club. Now, it stands as one of the best pubs in Geelong that aims to deliver both drink and hearty fare. It’s the kind of place locals frequent for reliable food, friendly service, and a relaxed vibe. The venue offers both bar and dining services, with extended hours over the weekend.

What You Should Try:

Parmigiana with chips & salad (traditional, Irish, Kiev, vegetarian, schnitzel)
Beef and Guinness pie
Burger with chips (buttermilk fried chicken, Murphy’s beef, Korean pork, beef and bacon, mushroom katsu, fish burger)

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Murphy’s has a relaxed, welcoming neighbourhood pub feel. You won’t find overly ornate decor, but instead a place where you can settle in, order a comfortably familiar meal, and enjoy drinks.

Address: 30 Aberdeen St, Geelong West VIC 3220

Opening Hours: The Bar is open from 4 PM (Tuesday to Thursday) and from 12 PM (Friday to Sunday). The restaurant is open for lunch at 12 PM (Friday to Sunday), and for dinner at 5:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

What People Have to Say:

“Great atmosphere. Food came out reasonably quickly and was piping hot and a decent serve. They have veggo dishes on the menu.” — Tina

“Food is absolutely delicious, have not had on bad meal there yet. Service is friendly and venue atmosphere is amazing. Great venue, with quirkiness!” — Rachel R.

“Great venue for a proper pub meal on a cold night. Warm fire, lovely welcome and service from the staff and a great value Parmi.” — Simon E.

8.

Barwon Club Hotel

The Barwon Club Hotel is a go-to pub in South Geelong for locals, offering the full pub experience with hearty meals, a lively bar scene, and regular live music events. With a reputation for being a top spot for bands and social nights out, it combines traditional pub warmth with energetic entertainment.

What You Should Try:

Black angus porterhouse, served with chips and salad, or veggies and mash, with a sauce of your choice
Black angus scotch fillet, served with chips and salad, or veggies and mash, with a sauce of your choice
Bruschetta, with cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, red onion and fresh basil on a garlic focaccia, drizzled with balsamic glaze
Vegan burger, with house-made corn fritters with tomato, lettuce and lemon pepper mayo on a toasted potato bun, served with chips

What It’s Like Dining Here:

The interior features a traditional pub bar with plenty of seating, a beer garden for chill afternoons, and a dedicated live-music room where local and touring acts perform regularly. The menu delivers pub classics done well: steaks, burgers, and schnitzels, with options for vegans and gluten-free diners too. For the schedule of their live bands, check their gig guide as the lineup changes weekly.

Address: 509 Moorabool St, South Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: 3 PM to 10 PM (Monday), 11:30 AM to 10 PM (Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday), 11:30 AM to 11 PM (Thursday), 11:30 AM to 1 AM (Friday to Saturday)

What People Have to Say:

“Great venue for live bands and nice food and staff.” — Joshua G.

“If you’re in Geelong and you haven’t tried the Meat Lovers Parma at Barwon Club, what are you even doing?! Seriously, they’ve absolutely nailed it! The flavor is off the charts! It’s like a party in my mouth, and everyone’s invited — crispy chicken, savory meats, and a cheesy blanket that would make a toddler swoon. While other pubs are busy serving their “average at best” parmas, Barwon Club just raised the bar to the moon.” — Jayden

“What more can you say about the Barwon Club, seen some of the best bands there, The staple of River Rocks is an institution.” — David R.

Pubs in Geelong with the Best Brews and Cocktails

9.

The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Geelong

More than just a sports bar, The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Geelong offers a dynamic mix of high-energy and family-friendly dining in the CBD. With a modern Australian menu featuring pub classics, a wide tap selection, and dozens of screens built into the venue, it caters equally to sports fans catching live events, friends out for dinner, and families seeking casual meals.

What You Should Try:

Chicken wings (garlic soy, garlic & parmesan, szechuan, Hawaiian glaze, coffee BBQ, sambal)
Wings and bites (signature wings, boneless bites, plant-based bites)
Six-star grass-fed Australian rib-eye, served with beer-battered steak fries, rocket garnish, and your choice of sauce
Tap beers, bottles & tinnies, RTD spirits, wine, signature cocktails, highballs, margaritas, vodka, zero alcohol cocktails, bourbon, scotch, whisky, cognac, gin, rum, tequila, and more

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Large booths equipped with individual TVs give groups a semi-private viewing experience, while open seating faces giant screens broadcasting major games. It’s ideal for game nights, casual lunches, or dinner with friends. The atmosphere is energetic, especially when major sports are on, but not so wild that it’s off-limits for families earlier in the evening.

Address: 175-177 Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10 PM (Monday to Thursday), 11:30 AM to 12 AM (Friday and Saturday)

What People Have to Say:

“I came here tonight for the first time. The staff is friendly and welcoming and the food is absolutely delicious!” — Juliana S.

“Drink service was incredible, cocktails made quickly and properly, beers poured well. Cannot rate this place highly enough!!” — Mayor M.

“Usually a go to place as we love the entrees and cocktails, and the staff are lovely.” — Nikki J.

10.

Recess Bar + Eats

Recess Bar + Eats brings together creative dining and dynamic bar culture in central Geelong. It positions itself as a place to “play,” with a stylish interior and multiple dining and entertainment zones. It prides itself as Geelong’s only certified gluten-free restaurant, a testament to its commitment to catering to diverse dietary needs without compromising on flavour or creativity.

What You Should Try:

Saturday Bottomless Brunch, featuring bottomless cocktails, sparkling wines, spirits, and tap beer for 2 hours, plus five courses of shared food.
Sunday Drag Brunch, featuring drinks for 2 hours and five courses of shared food, all with a live drag performance.
Braised beef cheek with grilled leek, cauliflower puree, and pickled red cabbage
Cauliflower macaroni and cheese with truffle oil

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Dining at Recess is dynamic, playful, and layered. Depending on where you sit, you might be in the more relaxed downstairs eatery, out in the beer garden or balcony, or upstairs in the energetic bar space. The upstairs bar tends to be livelier after dark, with live DJ performances, drag shows, and late-night entertainment on weekends. The food service downstairs is more restaurant-style, while upstairs, it’s often bar ordering.

Address: 247 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220

Opening Hours: The restaurant is open from 4 PM (Tuesday to Friday) and 11:30 AM (Saturday). The bar is open from 4 PM (Tuesday to Friday) and 5 PM (Saturday).

What People Have to Say:

“The atmosphere at the drag brunch was fantastic, providing great entertainment and fun games. The attentive bar staff ensured we had a great time, and the food was delicious. I'm already looking forward to going back.” — Straya S.

“I absolutely love Recess! The food is always outstanding and the entertainment is brilliant.” — KC G.

“the place never disappoints! The food is delicious, staff are fun and friendly, great selection of cocktails and the drag shows are so entertaining! The whole venue has a really nice vibe! By far my favourite place to eat, drink and enjoy a good time with friends in Geelong!” — Sunset S.

Drink, Dine, and Cruise to Geelong’s Best Pubs with Searoad Ferries

With plenty of things to do in Geelong, a pub crawl across the city’s best pubs becomes even more exciting. When paired with a scenic ferry journey across Port Phillip Bay, the adventure feels more like an experience in itself than just a trip. Searoad Ferries takes you from the Mornington Peninsula to Queenscliff in comfort, complete with bay views, café service, and even the chance to spot dolphins along the way. From Queenscliff, Geelong is less than an hour’s drive, making it easy to turn a relaxing cruise into a day (or weekend) of dining, drinking, and exploring.