Here in Sydney, we’re lucky enough to have one of the globe’s most multicultural populations. Our bar scene reflects this, with pubs proudly representing folks from all over the world. Here’s my guide to experiencing the best of Europe without ever leaving the city.

Ireland – Sydney has plenty of Irish bars, but my favourite is Scruffy Murphys (43-49 Goulburn St, Sydney). This friendly pub in the heart of the city is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Germany – There are also a bunch of German pubs in Sydney, but the granddaddy of them all is the Löwenbräu Keller (Corner of Playfair and Argyle Streets, The Rocks). With an oompah band, busty beer wenches, and plenty of Bavarian bier it’s like stepping into Germany. Make sure you stay for dinner – the schnitzels and goulashes are divine.

Belgium – The Belgians share honours with Germany for producing some of the best beers in the world, and they’re all on show at the Belgian Beer Café (135 Harrington Street, The Rocks). Any place that doesn’t just have a wine menu, but a beer menu too, gets my vote.

England – The Nag’s Head (162 St Johns Road, Glebe) may be a traditional British style bar, but don’t expect lukewarm beer here. The bistro features old favourites like bangers and mash and fish and chips. Visit on Sundays to enjoy free pool.

France – Moulin Rouge Down Under (39 Darlinghurst Road, Kings Cross) brings all the decadence and debauchery of Paris’ most favourite nightspot to Sydney. It may be in Kings Cross, but this burlesque bar is more fun and cheesy than sleazy.

Image source: Toby Forage @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

Luckily my concert buddy Jaime is a local. She suggested the Horse & Jockey hotel, a pub along Homebush’s main drag. It didn’t look like much from the outside, but once I stepped through the doors I was pleasantly surprised. Apparently it was renovated late last year, transforming it from a dingy watering hole to a funky pub.

The beer garden looked inviting, but with too many smokers we opted to sit inside. It turned out to be a good move, as we were the only ones dining indoors and could happily chat in comfort.

I didn’t expect much when I looked at the menu’s affordable prices. Nothing was under $20, and the dishes were fairly standard pub fare. I opted for a rib eye steak with mushroom gravy, while my friend decided to try the healthy Thai beef salad.

However, my meal was a pleasant surprise. The steak was juicy, and cooked perfectly medium rare. The mushroom gravy was full of flavour and fresh, with large mushroom pieces. My chips were met with a little less enthusiasm however. While they were crisp and golden, they were also covered with chicken salt. I expect this from the local takeaway shop, but I’m not sure why a steak dish would be paired with chicken-flavoured chips. Still, for $17.95 I was happy with the tasty steak and the few salt-less chips I could find at the bottom of the plate.

My companion was also thrilled with her salad, prepared without chilli as requested. She’s not a huge fans of salads, but said this was very tasty.

When I got to Acer Arena I couldn’t help peeking inside the venue’s restaurant. It was so cramped and noisy, I knew we’d made the right dining choice.

Trading hours: Open daily 10 am until midnight
Address: Corner of Parramatta Road and Knight Street, Homebush
Public transport: Catch a train to Homebush station, and walk to Parramatta Road
Parking: Street parking is available in the side streets
Cost: All main meals under $20
Website: http://www.laundy.com.au/horseandjockey   

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

The Brewhouse caters for the tastes of all diners with two distinctive menus. The Lower Deck menu offers bistro classics like chicken parmigiana, fish and chips, and tasty burgers. These light meals are ideal if you’re pressed for time or you just feel like a quick snack.

But I recommend taking the time to experience the a la carte menu. These hearty dishes are truly something to savour. Last time I visited, my husband I both enjoyed the fat juicy grain-fed scotch fillets with roasted potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, and jus.

If that doesn’t get your mouth watering, then the range of beers on tap will. The Brewhouse serves some of the company’s most popular drops alongside a couple of new varieties that are exclusively sold at the restaurant. I loved the Governor King, but if you’re a fan of dark beers you can’t go past the Porter.

If you can’t decide, let the James Squire Brewhouse do it for you. The a la carte menu features beer recommendations, ensuring you pick something that will perfectly compliment your meal. If beer’s not your thing, the Brewhouse also features a comprehensive wine list. Or let the friendly bar staff whip up your favourite cocktail.

With all that beer, it’s not surprising that men flock to The Brewhouse. To keep them happy, the pub features plenty of big plasma screens which broadcast all the hottest sporting events. But ladies, don’t let that scare you away. After all, with so many eligible men around, The James Squire Brewhouse is a great place for your next girls’ night out. 

It’s also a great place to take the kids, as every parent who has a main meal and a glass of beer qualifies for a free kid’s meal!

James Squire Brewhouse
King Street Wharf
Sydney

Post from: The Sydney Traveler