Hopping to another regional town beginning with ‘B’, our best pub and bars guide continues.
A town with a rich history, linked predominantly to the gold rush, Bendigo has always been a standout place for tourism and hospitality due to its local charm.
Boasting one of the oldest and largest galleries in Australia, Bendigo currently has a star-studded focus thanks to their impressive Elvis: Direct From Graceland exhibition. Running until 17 July, if you’re in town for this historic step-back-in-time, be sure to hit up some of the incredible local food spots and waterholes.
Check out the best pubs and bars in Geelong here.
Handle Bar
Address: 73 Mitchell Street, Bendigo
Vibe: Relaxed
Outdoor Area: Beer Garden Setting
Dedicated Menu: Craft Beer
Not only an exceptional name for a business, Handle Bar specialise in providing the very best of the craft beer world. The perfect spot for knock off beers soaking up the sun in their cosy beer garden as well as catching some live local talent, Handle Bar is a local favourite.
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The Urban Cellar
Address: 1/70 Powells Avenue, East Bendigo Victoria 3550
Vibe: Industrial meets luxury
Outdoor Area: Outdoor seating area
Dedicated Menu: From the fryer, steamer and wood oven options
The residence of Rothesay Estate and Morris Lane Distillery, The Urban Cellar is a unique space in East Bendigo. Serving the best from their wine and craft beer and cider selection, their paddle pairings come in the form of pizzas, platters and pulled pork bao – a pretty appetising offering if you ask us! They also offer masterclasses for the cocktail connoisseurs and gin junkies.
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One Tree Hill Hotel
Address: Spring Gully Rd & Retreat Rd, Spring Gully, Bendigo
Vibe: Family friendly
Outdoor Area: Beer garden
Dedicated Menu: Classic pub meals
You won’t find the Scott brothers at One Tree Hill Hotel, but what you will find is a family friendly pub with quality classic pub meals from Oscar’s Bistro and cold beers. Located out in the suburb of Spring Gully, this pub will leave you with a spring in your step, even with a full belly!
Nimbus Rooftop Bar
Address: 3/103 Mitchell Street, Bendigo
Vibe: Summer classy
Outdoor Area: The whole place is a rooftop!
Dedicated Menu: Cocktails and pizzas
One of the most spectacular locations in Bendigo, Nimbus Rooftop Bar overlooks the Bendigo township including the architectural delight of Bendigo Town Hall. Bringing the Melbourne bar class to the quiet town, Nimbus leans into their romantic setting with their menu offerings. Pick at a charcuterie board or share a pizza with your significant other or friends whilst drinking delicious cocktails.
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Cambrian Hotel Bendigo
Address: 200 Arnold Street, Bendigo
Vibe: Relaxed, cosy
Outdoor Area: Beer garden and outdoor seating
Dedicated Menu: Craft Beer focus
Nothing says quality like a bunch of awards and Cambrian Hotel Bendigo has a bunch to their name. With a passion for great food and even better beer, Cambrian Hotel has been reinvented thanks to owners Adam and Andrew Carswell and their dedication to the independent beer industry. A must-check out!
Ms Batterhams
Address: 10 MacKenzie Street, Bendigo
Vibe: Sophisticated
Outdoor Area: Limited outdoor dining
Dedicated Menu: Seasonal chef creations
The basement conversion of the old school hall at Mackenzie Quarters, Ms Batterhams is a hidden gem within the arts precinct of Bendigo. Presenting a refined wine list, locally inspired cocktails and a wide selection of craft beers to pair with a unique chef-specialised southern European inspired dining consisting of local delicacies, Ms Batterhams is a bespoke experience, heightened by their plush booths and intricate interior details.
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Wine Bank On View
Address: 45 View Street, Bendigo
Vibe: Sophisticated
Outdoor Area: N/A
Dedicated Menu: Sophisticated dining and international wine list
A wine bar located in a heritage building, Wine Bank On View brings a global spread of wines to regional Victoria. A wealth of wine knowledge and a world-class selection line the walls of the 1876 former Union Bank building. Partnered with a sophisticated menu, Wine Bank on View is a luxury experience.
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Miss Molly’s & Mister Bob’s
Address: 366 High Street Golden Square, Bendigo
Vibe: Sports and Miami Beach Vibes
Outdoor Area: Outdoor seating
Dedicated Menu: Delicious cocktails, low-key pub meals
Bendigo’s The Foundry has been busy of late, introducing two awesome dedicated bars to meet your drinking needs. Mister Bob’s is the ultimate sports bar boasting over 20 big screens throughout the bar and into their popular outdoor space for all your live sports action, complete with a huge drinks and cocktails menu.
Mister Bob’s crazy cousin, Miss Molly, is an Instagrammer’s dream and the ultimate girl’s night out. Think Palm Springs, cocktails, pink, neon beach vibes and a whole lotta fun!
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The Rifle Brigade Hotel
Address: 137 View St, Bendigo
Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly
Outdoor Area: Balcony seating
Dedicated Menu: Traditional Aussie pub favourites
Hailed as Bendigo’s favourite old-timey local, The Rifle is the place to go if you’re chasing sensational, relaxing drinks with great service and good hearty meals, craft beers and quality wines. With a whole lot of country charm, this is classic pub fare with a large menu of pub favourites from pizza to grilled meats and blackboard specials. Located opposite the Bendigo Art Gallery and The Capital Theatre, we recommend you take your drinks upstairs and sit on their picturesque balcony overlooking the iconic View Street.
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