Melbourne Uni favourite the Clyde Hotel has been going since at least 1866, and we can’t imagine much has changed since then. Early Carlton Football Club meetings were held at the Clyde, and Blues fans (and those in other jerseys) still flock to the pub during the footy season to watch the flat screens in the beer garden or main bar.
Food at the Clyde is what you’d expect – parmas, burgers, steak, fish and chips – but in a nod to its modern clientele it also offers gluten-free and vegan options. And although the kitchen serves during set lunch and dinner hours during the week, chips and wedges are always available to keep punters sated.
Staff are friendly and always happy to explain the beers on rotating taps, or you can opt for the classics of Carlton Draught, Furphy, Guinness or Coopers. The wine list is mostly Australian, with a few New Zealand drops and the odd Italian Prosecco thrown in. Wines start at $8 a glass and go up to $40-$60 a bottle.
Make sure you say hello to Darlene, the grey-haired lady who oversees the running of the Clyde. And while you’re at it, tickle her ears – Darlene is the Clyde’s resident cat, and she’s an absolute beaut.