The new owners - who also own the Mona Castle and Ascot Vale Hotel are the latest caretakers and have breathed new life into the old girl.
You can see already that everything is more elevated, the space AND the meals - and with so much more to come - there is a larger renovation planned for later this year!
The Smeaton Hotel is one of those classic pubs. Neing the oldest weatherboard pub in Victoria, it still feels classic. Spruced up, but also untouched. Still with every bit of its character.
Read MoreYou may have driven past this hotel not knowing the deliciousness that lay beyond its simple facade.
Well, Mamma is here to tell you that you need to stop, park, and come inside and enjoy one of the best pubs you will find
The Swiss Mountain Hotel in Blampied in Melbourne's West not only has a great name - it's a FAB pub! We get so excited with the scent of the crackling fireplace that warms up the welcoming rustic bar and bistro space. Rock walls and timber are the vibe here. It was renovated about 15 years ago but has kept all the character you want in a country pub. Oh, the Sunday roast is great here too!
Read MoreThe Wallace Hotel – Big family feels, bigger Sunday roasts and a beautiful backyard. Just off the Western Freeway, tucked into the country town of Wallace, sits a pub that’s absolutely worth the pit stop - or Mamma says perhaps even a day trip. And yes, you read that right - there’s an actual full size tram in one of the gardens! It’s a hit with little ones and makes for an iconic Sunday session
Read MoreWith a FRESH new look and menu The Blackwood Hotel continues to be a Mamma country pub fave. We have been coming here for years and the tired old girl did need some TLC…and that’s exactly what she got! She has been renewed with a new lease on life and a delicious menu with ALL your faves and more. It is a great family friendly pub too with a kids menu as well, with colouring in and pencils.
Read MoreThe Morning Star in Williamstown has long been a favourite pub in the West, and we won’t lie – Mamma couldn’t be happier to see it in the capable hands of Stephen, Matt, and Aaron. Naturally, we were front and centre when the doors reopened, and wow, the makeover is pretty special. The addition of a kids’ corner and cubby house makes it an even better option for families to enjoy.
Read MoreHotel Mexico in Yarraville is an exciting new venture from the clever guys behind Grazeland in Spotswood and their favourite Mexican eatery, El Taco. They have delivered authentic Mexican vibes, delicious Mexican street food, complemented by a bar with over 50 varieties of tequila. And that's not all. Weekends will feature live DJs! Seriously the place to be in Melbourne's West!
Read MoreWe're more than a little excited about this one! Hotel Mexico is almost ready to throw open their hacienda doors to the West! We were lucky enough to get a little sneak peek and while we can’t reveal all the details just yet, trust Mamma — it’s going to be nothing short of awesome.
Read MoreGrab the girls, or the boys, and spend your Friday nights sipping specialty cocktails by the fire, with some great tunes, incredible food at an excellent vibe at Cocktail Club Fridays at The Park!
Read MoreMamma has loved this The Vic Hotel in Footscray since its renovation a few years back. It’s a pub that still feels like a pub, an updated space that still feels original. The food is incredible from entree to dessert - the buffalo wings, the mussels, the burger and oh my word, the honeycomb parfait… oh, and the Sunday Roasts are amazing! This is one to keep coming back to.
Read MoreAnd as the name suggests it is a tavern full of maritime and pirate paraphernalia. It has character and realness - in a world full of refurbished pubs this is one that has stood its ground (thank goodness) and stayed true.
Read MoreNavi Lounge gives us access to what’s behind the velvet curtain, without the long booking list, and still with the opportunity to try Chef Julians famed fare.
The space is stunning - not surprisingly. It is dimly lit, but the afternoon suns shines through the sheer curtains, and you know you are somewhere special.
Read MoreHop Nation has been situated here for quite some time. If you didn’t know about it, that’s okay—it's a hidden gem nestled down a laneway in an industrial part of Footscray.
Read MoreNamed after the mystery and magic of the fermentation process, Black Arts Brewery is a local hidden gem like no other. We have met many local Westie folks doing great things and owner Josh is not only making great beer, gin and ciders, but he lives and breathes the art of creating an amazing beverage!
Read MoreIf you live in Kingsville, then you’d already know about this place. Flocks of families and brew loving folks have already discovered the newest micro brewery in Melbourne’s West and as Mamma does, we stumbled upon Barbarian and its beacon of yellow and stayed for a few hours - they now have a full kitchen! With amazing meats, and even a Sunday Roast, you'll walk out full and content!
Read MoreGreat views from the rooftop, beautiful menu, pub classics and an amazing pub in Williamstown - The Hobsons Bay Hotel is perfect for family dining or a catch up with friends!
Read MoreNewport, get ready to experience the charm and elegance of The Fifth Wine Bar - your new neighbourhood hotspot! With its sleek art deco design and cosy atmosphere, this curvy and cute wine bar is the perfect place to catch up with friends or enjoy a romantic date night. Come discover what makes The Fifth Wine Bar so special and add it to your list of must-visit spots in Newport!
Read More
Discover Bathtub Gin Distilling Co., located in a charming old warehouse building tucked away on a hidden back street in Williamstown. Take a stroll and stumble upon this enchanting distillery, where you can indulge in handcrafted gin and immerse yourself in the art of distilling and now food!
Read MoreHaving been in the wine and beer game for a while in the west, Sam knows his craft beer, artisan wine and select spirits. You can also enjoy a few tapas and nibbles from the menu too.
Read MoreInspiring families in Melbourne's West to uncover amazing stuff nearby. You will find inside local knowledge on parks, playgrounds, cafes, family activities, markets and more all waiting to be uncovered, rediscovered and enjoyed.
Copyright Mamma Knows 2017
*All reviews are based on ‘Mamma’s’ personal opinion and unique experience. Mamma takes no responsibility for any negative experiences incurred at any venue/location.*
The majority of articles on this site are unpaid and unsponsored. On the occasion of a paid editorial by a local business we wish to support, we have disclosed on those articles.
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