The best pubs for watching the State of Origin match

The low-key interior of the Hawthorn Hotel belies the popularity of this pub, a favoured haunt of uni students and locals. The menu is trad-pub, but the wine list offers a well-curated array of Australian and NZ varieties. Book a table here.

What was once Richmond's old and crumbling Great Britain Hotel is now Harlow: an old-school pub with new-school sensibilities. Harlow has a music-inspired cocktail list – divided into 'hip hop', 'pop' and 'heavy metal' concoctions – and the modern pub menu features snacks such as crab doughnuts, Jack and Coke pork ribs and a snack-pack kebab. Book a table here. 

Established in 1867, the renovated and restored Prince Alfred Hotel balances the comfort and charm of a traditional local pub with the energy of quality live entertainment and a dining experience that reflects Melbourne’s sophisticated modern palate. Book a table here.

One of Melbourne's premier Irish pubs, you'll find the walls splashed with Irish paraphernalia, suspended TV screens playing the rugby, live music, traditional Irish grub and of course, the beloved Irish beverage – Guinness. Book a table for an early dinner here and stay to watch the game. 

This light-filled South Melbourne corner pub has all the fixings of a good pub: hearty meals, a rooftop terrace and a beer garden. Book a table here.

This joint is a rather minimalist affair with decor so white and clean you could mistake if for a surgery – were you not sitting amongst a crowd of parma enthusiasts. If you're keen to sink some icy cold beers and bar bites while watching the game, book a table here.

Head to the Swan to enjoy the game live and loud on the big screen while sinking $15 jugs of Mountain Goat throughout each game. Bookings are essential and can be made here.

Tucked away in the Inner North, this sprawling sports pub has a well-earned reputation as the premier destination for locals and visitors alike to watch the game. The main dining area can feel like mission control during the crossover between dinnertime and the match, thanks to a massive, wall-spanning screen. Bodies spring up to roar success, while groans of despair rumble under the celebrations. Book a table here. 

Before the game starts, head on over to this St Kilda pub to enjoy the roast of the day and a beer or wine for just $25. After you've scoffed your meal, you can catch the game on the big screen. Book your table here.

A historic Melbourne landmark dating back to the late 1800s, the Victoria Hotel is now under the Rydges umbrella. An onsite bar, restaurant, fitness centre, plunge pool, spa and sauna make this 3.5-star property an incredible find, considering its highly sought-after Little Collins Street location. Book your spot here.