The pub lunch is done a bit differently in the Margaret River Region, but the classics still remain.
The pub lunch is done a bit differently in the Margaret River Region, with beef tartare, Japanese pancakes and Indian thali all making an appearance.
But there are also plenty of places to enjoy the classics. Here are some of the best spots to head for an epic pub lunch.
For a family-friendly pub lunch or a gathering of mates, the Caves House Hotel delivers. This nostalgic favourite is high on the list, not just for its heritage value, but also its tasty menu. With several different dining areas – from the beer garden with pizza shack through to the art deco Yallingup Room and elegant terrace, there is something for everyone. Sunday roasts, soups and authentic curries are just the tonic in winter.
One of the region’s best known and most–loved pubs is Settlers Tavern. It could be for their incredible wine list (Settler’s have had multiple accolades for best wine list of the year), or maybe for happy memories of surf trips with nights spent at the Tav enjoying a live band. Whatever the reason, it’s a well-oiled machine with great food, warm, efficient service and an impressive selection of food, wine and beer taps. The aroma from Settlers’ American BBQ Pit wafts down Margaret River’s main street drawing in the punters for low-n-slow Texas–style brisket, lamb ribs and pulled pork.
Each pub has a signature dish that locals insist stay on the menu and at The Common it’s the Pounder Burger. Other stand–out dishes include Blackened Crispy Skin Barramundi with coconut rice and pineapple salsa, Grass Fed New York Striploin, and their ‘Parmagheddon’. It’s an ideal spot to refuel after a morning surf.
The River pushes the boundaries beyond pub lunch classics, and is a go-to for locals wanting a tasty meal in a relaxed setting. The ubiquitous fish and chips and burger sit alongside Satay Margaret River Lupin Tempeh, Caramelised Brussel Sprouts and Thai Crispy Fish Salad, plus there’s a great range of drinks and more than 40 gins available. The River delivers for its cosy ambience, friendly service and stand-out menu.
For friendly, relaxed service, reasonable prices and a delectable array of seafood try Clancy’s Dunsborough. Favourite lunch options include Fish & Chips, Chilli Mussels and the Seafood Platter which changes seasonally. There’s always a Fish of the Day and plenty of specials, plus 24 craft beer taps. With plenty of dining space bookings aren’t essential, but are welcome.
The centrepiece of the kitchen at Wild Hop Brewing Co is their woodfired rotisserie oven, which churns out an ever-changing menu featuring tasty local produce. While everyone can head along and have a grand old time, where this Brew-pub really shines is in their family style feeds. Grab a couple of mates and pre-book a whole rotisserie free-range chicken which has been brined for 48 hours using aromatics from their farm, then slow roasted over the coals. Add a few vegetable dishes and you have the perfect weekend pub lunch that’s hearty and wholesome. They of course also have a revolving cast of beers on tap, from their own range and other brewers doing Good Things.
Amelia Park Tavern isn’t your run-of-the-mill Tav. With 100–day grain fed scotch fillet in its steak sandwich, and beef tartare on the menu, this team isn’t mucking around. Korean Fried Chicken is a crowd pleaser that will have you returning to repeat the order. And while Amelia Park looks a million bucks, it won’t put a big dent in your back pocket. Deals include $20 Curry Nights on Wednesdays with a traditional Indian Thali, an all-day steak special on Thursdays (scotch fillet, chips, salad and glass of red wine for $30) and the new Sunday night Amelia Park Shank and Shiraz for $25. Enjoy with a lager or something a bit fancy like a mulberry gin with fresh fruit from the garden. Open Wednesday to Sunday, bookings recommended.
It’s worth planning a trip to Augusta to experience one of these off the beaten track country pubs. The Karridale Tavern is a hidden gem on the Bussell Highway, where you can practice your darts game with the locals. Go for the $25 Burger & Pint deal, every Friday between 12pm – 3pm.
The Augusta Hotel has a traditional friendly vibe, toasty fires and generous servings of pub classics. During the warmer months the kids can run free out the back on the grass, while you soak in the million dollar views of the Blackwood River.
Honourable mentions should go to Occy’s, which has generous share boards, and long-time favourite Cowaramup Brewing’s farmland setting and friendly staff make it worth a visit. There’s also the Monkey Bar in Vasse for pizza and beer in the brewery’s production house, and finally the kid-friendly Bootleg Brewery and Colonial have great value beer food favourites.
