Nestled in Central Ballarat, The Royal Oak Hotel stands as a living testament to the city's history.
Tucked away at 402 South Street in the beating heart of Ballarat, The Royal Oak Hotel isn’t just a pub; it’s a living, breathing time capsule that’s been charming locals since 1866.
Owned and operated now by the dynamic duo, Gigi and Dean, this historic gem is a warm embrace for everyone, including the furrier members of your family.
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Gigi, hailing from London, and Dean, a local from Malsmbury Victoria, crossed paths in a Clapham bar in 2011. Bonding over their shared love for hospitality, they embarked on a journey through London’s traditional pubs.
“Finding a real joy in the old, traditional pubs we both saw the pubs we visited as important parts of local history that should be protected and passed on to future generations. We have always seen pubs as more than just bricks and mortar, pubs are a rich tapestry of its history and, most importantly, the people who have and continue, to fill them,” the couple said in a statement on their website.
Moving to Australia, the couple immersed themselves in Australian pub culture, working at the likes of Great Ocean Road Brewhouse and Apollo Bay Distillery. In 2020, their quest led them to the Royal Oak Hotel in Ballarat, a perfectly preserved gem that spoke to their vision of warm, inviting hospitality.
The moment Gigi and Dean laid eyes on The Royal Oak, they knew they’d found something special. Preserved to perfection by the previous custodians, John and Karen Turner, the Oak is more than a pub; it’s a living canvas of Ballarat’s past. Old photos, nostalgic beer cans, and a mural featuring Ballarat’s own cellar-man, Ballarat Bertie, tell stories that linger in the air.
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Since January 2021, Gigi, Dean, and their furry companions, Hank and Meg, have taken the reins, ensuring The Royal Oak remains a hub for locals and travellers alike. The pub, with its authentic charm and community spirit, continues its legacy of serving refreshing drinks and delectable meals.
A family (and dog) friendly haven, step inside the spacious beer garden, adorned with fully covered stables, where even our four-legged friends have a spot. Even in Ballarat’s brisk winter, you can enjoy a meal or drinks outdoors, snug and warm.
Now, let’s talk about the real hero – the menu. It’s a culinary journey down memory lane, with pub classics that tug at your heartstrings. From lamb cutlets and rissoles to the unbeatable Parmas, each dish is a nod to the time when comfort food meant something. And let’s not forget the steaks, supplied by the legendary local butchers, Midvale Meats. The kitchen is open from Wednesdays through to Saturdays 12pm to 2pm & 6pm to 8.30pm and on Sundays from 12pm to 2pm & 6pm to 8pm.
Rounded out with a grand dining room with a roaring fire, a comfy bench, and a public bar where the locals share tales over local brews – it’s the epitome of the Aussie pub experience.
Whether you’re after a family feast, a laid-back afternoon in the sun, or a friendly chat with a cold brew in hand, this Ballarat institution is a must-visit. The warmth of history, the joy of shared moments, and the hearty aroma of classic pub fare await you.
The Royal Oak Hotel is located at 402 South St, Ballarat Central. Visit the website here.
