Bars & Pubs

Settle in and become part of the furniture at sophisticated wine bars or be wowed by expert mixologists crafting the perfect combos.

With award-winning drops and spirits made in abundance in this region, it's easy to find something memorable to fill your glass in a setting you'll love.

Geelong’s wine-making story dates back to the early 1800s and there are great wine bars which show off the top drops. Geelong Cellar Door celebrates the region’s best in a sophisticated setting with charm.

Patrons of Belmont’s Archive Wine Bar appreciate its beer garden and regular wine education events, while Timberdoor Cellar offers a cosy setting in Geelong. If you’re going coastal, drop into The Covenant Wine Bar in Ocean Grove or Arlo Wine Bar in Portarlington.

It’s hard to go past a hearty pub meal washed down with a pint of whatever’s on tap. Just be warned when ordering: it’s parmi and chips in these parts.

A country favourite that’s reopened with much celebration, the Batesford Hotel brings together everything to love about rural dining. This unique country pub serves up quality food, a local drinks list and one of the largest outdoor areas we’ve seen, that’s beside the Moorabool River and under the shelter of native gum trees. Bliss.

Eureka Hotel is an old pub with a beautiful new look after a recent refurbishment that offers all the creature comforts you’d expect. They regularly host live music and occasionally big acts.

Image below: Ryan Sormaz.

Secret bars are hidden down alleyways and mysterious staircases in central Geelong. Slink your way up a set of darkened stairs and you’ll enter a portal to 1920s Chicago prohibition days. With the vibe of a speakeasy, The 18th Amendment Bar is the go-to for knock-your-socks-off cocktails and a whole lot of raucous fun.

Or stroll to the nearby art deco Non Disclosure Bar, inspired by the world’s most stylish hotel lounges with equally fancy cocktails. Settle into a private booth, on the lush velvet seats at the tables, or chat to the bartender at the counter.

And if live music is your jam, Piano Bar is a lively venue where song requests are part of the fun and singing-along is a must.

Raise your glass sky-high at the rooftop bars of Geelong and The Bellarine.

Feel like you’re up in the trees in The Arborist’s new rooftop among Geelong’s skyline. Serving up Middle Eastern-inspired fare with artful cocktails, it’s the perfect date night venture or after work drinks.

Lap up the waterfront vista over three levels at Sailors’ Rest. Head to the very top level for near 360-degree views facing Cunningham Pier and The Carousel.

Step back in time at 1915 Restaurant in the Federal Mills. Attached to the side of the historic red brick building, it’s quite a sight sipping cocktails under the iconic smokestack. If you’re after something more filling, head inside to dine on a Mediterranean menu.