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Pubs 'n' grubs


Bangers and mash, meat pies, well-done steak with hot chips... In some ways pub grub is still as it used to be - very grubby - and this is the way Sydneysiders like it. It's perfect for those tummy-grumbling moments, and to ease the hangover with fatty goodness.

Although, as we've watched our old-school pubs renovated, we have also seen a yuppie revamp of classic menus. Salt and pepper squid, oysters, duck and herb-stuffed ravioli, slow roasted twice-baked lamb (or something like that)... These kind-on-the-beergut-foods now pop out at us from the menu as we down a cold one.

Whatever tickles your taste buds, this city has the best pub eats around.

1
 
The Clock Hotel
Surry Hills
Stiff white collars and eclectic Surry Hills types migrate here to sip on their famous cocktails and munch on a selection of tapas that you wouldn't want to share, like pan-fried chorizo with roasted chat potatoes finished with sherry. If communal eating isn't your thing, they also offer hearty mains.

2
 
Lansdowne Hotel
Chippendale
Putting the grub back into pub grub, this iconic no-frills establishment serves up $5 steaks, pizzas, schnitzels and all the old favourites to grungy students and locals downing a bevvy and catching a band.

3
 
Exchange Hotel
Balmain
If artichoke and blue cheese tart with tomato salad makes your mouth water, you'll be spoilt here. With this said, they do a fabulous classic $10 menu through the week, so there's no need to have a mature tongue to enjoy their eats.

4
 
Commodore Hotel
North Sydney
Whether you're after a quick lunchtime bite or a lingering meal and drink with friends, this popular pub delivers on both fronts. The bar food menu offers yummies like nachos, while the main menu's extensive choice of seafood and steaks lets you feel like you're dining out.

5
 
Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel
Sydney
Known more for its pub than its grub, this Sydney establishment not only brews its own ale, but promises to ease your hunger pangs too. Pork pies and ploughman's lunches complement the classic pub atmosphere.