Winter at The Australian Hotel Ballina
There’s something about a classic corner pub in winter. The kind of place where the food comes out hot, the beer’s cold, and someone’s always up for a yarn.
Since 1893, the Australian Hotel Ballina has been just that — a local go-to for good times, cold drinks and meals that warm your soul (and probably require a nap after).
This winter, they say, ‘we’re keeping bellies full and hearts happy with a menu that balances pub comfort with cantina heat. There’s the fall-off-the-bone lamb shank, served with creamy mash, peas and a rich rosemary jus. Or our house-made beef and bacon pie, flaky, golden and filled with just the right amount of winter indulgence.’
Then there’s the steak – and the crew at The Australian are not messing around. A 300g NY striploin, charred just how you like it, served with golden thick-cut chips, greens and rosemary jus. It’s beefy, bold and has been winning hearts and filling bellies all season long.
And, as they put it, ‘the hits keep coming — our classic schnitzel (that slaps) is all crunch, no regrets. Or keep it old-school with a ridgey didge parmi — perfectly crumbed, cheese melted to perfection, and a napolitana sauce that actually tastes like something.
‘Feeling spicy? Our cantina menu brings the fire — with authentic tacos, zesty tostadas and bold Mexican mains. The hardest part? Choosing your weapon from our lineup of hot sauces, imported straight from Mexico. Perfect for chilli fiends, flavour chasers and anyone ready to sweat (in a good way).’
However, it’s not just about the food at The Australian. Fridays from 8pm, the bands take the stage. Saturdays from 9pm, the DJs bring house, dance and high-energy grooves to the courtyard. And Sundays? That’s when it all winds down (kind of) with their Stone & Wood Sunday Sessions — $9 pints of Pacific Ale ALL DAY, plus live music from Ballina’s best blues, soul and indie artists from 2pm.
Parents, the Australian Hotel has got you too: kids eat free every Sunday. So you can enjoy a proper pub lunch while the little legends tuck into theirs.
Come for the feed, stay for the vibe. It’s all happening at The Australian this winter — outdoor fire on, music up, plates full, and cold pints at the ready.
The Australian Hotel, 103 River St Ballina
australianhotelballina.com.au
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