If kicking back in a comfy armchair before an open fire, a $10 espresso martini in hand or $12 jug of James Squire beer on the table, sounds oh so good … well, it gets even better when punters turn their minds to tucking into a traditional pub meal.
Spottiswoode Hotel, with its wonderful Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, has been a landmark on its Hudson Road corner since 1888.
Functions manager Kelly Winteringham says the pub has come a long, long way since then.
It’s put a shady early history behind it to become a true inner-west local for food, live entertainment, catered functions and weekend brekkies.
“The pub has a great feel, with the exposed brick and buffed-up original concrete floors and doors keeping the history alive,” she says.
“And our beer garden is a ripper. It’s got old brick and recycled timber walls, greenery – and a fireplace for winter and shade sails for summer.”
The beer garden is a natty spot to gather around a weekend brekkie.
Until 1pm, you can get the likes of smashed avo on sourdough, benedicts, omelettes, muesli, pancakes and more – maybe pair your choice with a cheeky bloody Mary or pot of Earl Grey.
Speaking of alcohol, there are 10 beers/ciders on tap, including James Squire’s range, a Guinness and JS Orchard cider.
A Sloe Summer (sloe gin, raspberry vodka and apple juice) is on the cocktails list, and there’s a good selection of whites, reds and bubbles.
The daily menu starts with oysters two ways, a dip trio, soup, nachos and other plates, then come mains of pub classics, burgers, steaks and seafood.
A $15 two-course lunch – with a line-up of well-liked dishes – is on for seniors, under 12s can eat well for $10, and ice-cream, always a keeper, is on to finish.
Eat, drink and think on Tuesday trivia nights and get that $10 espresso martini all day Friday.
There is also live music to enjoy on Friday nights from 8.30pm and Sunday afternoons from 3pm, with performances showcasing an eclectic mix of band and acoustic acts.
The pub has a real heart for the community, as evidenced by the $10,000 raised in one day at this year’s family fun festival, held annually by the venue to raise funds for the Good Friday Appeal.
“It was a fabulous day with face painting, a jumping castle and sand art creations for the kids, and raffles, live music and a silent auction for the adults,” Kelly says.
“This year we thoroughly smashed our target and we are really proud to be able to support this great cause.”
Spottiswoode Hotel, 62 Hudsons Road Spotswood. Inquiries: 9391 1330 or email spottiswoode@spottiswoode.com.au
