A quick bite turned out into a long ordeal. Two lessons learned: no sports bars, and try to avoid the trains. Trains don't run frequently and the bar took an hour to prepare my food. It was a simple chicken Parmesan. It was tasty, but not worth the wait. Initially it was fun to sit, have a drink, watch some AFL. Most of the restaurant was empty, except for five tables, but the noise level was off the charts. They weren't even watching the game. read more

Stopped here to enjoy the rooftoo on a nice day. They always have good music and the bartenders are nice. Great spot to watch the game or just chill with friends. read more

Imperial Hotel - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

When the weather yells roof top, the imperial has it covered. Well partially covered. Seating is available in both full sun and the shade. On my recent visit, tap beer wasn't being served at rooftop elevation. The gin however was cold and perfectly mixed into negroni magic. A nice spot to sit a while or from which to start your rooftop crawl. read more

Imperial Hotel - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

This really isn't one of my favourite pubs in Melbourne. Sure, it has a pretty cool rooftop bar and the staff are quite friendly, and talkative, but it isn't really an atmosphere that I can really warm to. I guess it has a lot to do with it being at the classier end of Melbourne, where you tend to find the cocktail bars. Sure, they don't really have a dress code, and it is reasonably relaxing, at times, though it can get pretty crowded. While I don't hate the place, I really don't go out of my way to visit it. read more

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I'm not a fan of the downstairs bar at all, it attracts an odd clientele. This new rooftop bar however rocks! It's huge airy and entirely NON-SMOKING that on its one is enough to make me love this place. There's a series of high tables as well as communal seating areas. Part of the area is under cover. The food selection is limited to burgers, chicken ribs, Jalapeño Poppers, and chips but it's going down a treat. The beer selection is also excellent. The only negative is that they desperately need more umbrellas to keep the sun off. Another first world problem :-) Sadly the secret is out, the place is very popular. read more

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Way cool So good before going out Steak to die for, excellent for pub Food one of the best in Melbourne, hiddén treasure. read more

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Touted to be the 2nd oldest bar in Melbourne, the Imperial Hotel was just that place for this US gal to watch the local college playoff games the other afternoon. I stopped in and was pleasantly surprised at how welcoming the crowd was to the Chicago gal! I stepped up to the bar, ordered a beer and some food and went and found a table to watch the end of the game. Here's a tip- if you are going to eat in the bar- you need to pay for your food and drink when you order it. If you are going to eat in the restaurant, they will bring you your bill. Seems they have an issue with those who "dine and dash" here so pay first. My beer was cold, the food was good and the service was friendly. But what put it over the top for me were the locals from Melbourne who acted like watching a U.S. college football playoff game on a Monday afternoon was the most normal thing in the world. Thanks to that crowd, my trip to Melbourne ended on a very high note. And if any that group ( and you know who you are) find yourself in Chicago, look me up! Can't promise I'll find your game on our TV, but I will buy you a pint or two to return the favor! read more

A quiet Monday afternoon in search for a bar/pub that is open and has TVs, specifically to watch the Australian Open. Upon arrival, we were greeted by friendly staff and showed to a table that is directly in front of a TV that was showing the matches!! Yes! We then review the menu for drinks (Little Creatures Pale Ale pints for $12.2 each). We also decided to split the Lamb Pizza as it was recommended. It actually came out with a couple slices missing the crust and so we enquired about it and we were told it was a little too close to the flame so it burned. I was okay with their honesty so I didn't make it an issue but they voluntarily offered to give us a couple beers on the house. This was not needed but was very nice of them to offer. Overall, great service, good tasting food and cold beer. What more can you ask for? Oh yea, the TVs and good music... Which they had both of. read more

Imperial Hotel - Lamb Pizza and a Little Creatures Pale Ale (don't forget the H2O. - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Apparently, the roof top bar just recently opened a few months ago! And, what a good idea! There is an excellent view of the Parliament House right across the street from the Imperial Hotel! Drinks are good, food is good, view is great, and staff is friendly! I came here earlier this evening for Yelp happy hour. (Thanks, Jackie, for hosting this event!) This was my first rooftop experience in the city. As fellow Yelper, Fiona, has already pointed out, there may be other rooftop bars that are more impressive in their food and drink selections but this place isn't that bad at all.... As far as their food, I am a fan :) There were some light snacks being passed around: Ham Hock Nuggets, Jalapeno Poppers, and Crinkle Cut Chips. Of course, there are your standard chips but.... If you really want something delicious to nibble on, ORDER THE HAM HOCK NUGGETS. DO IT. It is delicious. Fellow Yelper, Rod, ordered some and shared with Chantee and myself. As Chantee remarked, it is something similar to deep fried corned beef hash. Yum! The Jalepeno Poppers were pretty good too. With the raspberry sauce they provide with it, there is a blend of creamy, crunchy, salty, and sweet flavors that you can taste- definitely worth trying :) They had a lot of beers on tap, but tonight I opted for the "Pimm's No.1 Classic" sans orange. It was delicious. So delicious, in fact, that I ended up ordering a second.... and by second, I mean a jug ;) (Don't judge!... Ok, I shared too!) You definitely get more bang for your buck if you just order a jug. The individual glass is $10, whereas a jug is $26. At the rate I kept refilling my drink, it was definitely worth the jug! Although it was raining outside, the rooftop was partially covered. It worked out for the number of people who showed up. We had some high-rise tables and chairs reserved underneath the roofed area which kept us dry, for the most part. There were also some wooden benches, tables, and umbrellas placed along the outer perimeter of the rooftop but it was too wet for anyone to venture out that far. The umbrellas were too small to really protect anyone from the rain. I wonder if Imperial Hotel will invest in larger umbrellas or another type of awning in the future for this kind of weather? I would definitely come back here to relax with colleagues and friends. It's near Parliament station,and very accessible in the sense that I don't need to go out of the way just to get here. I am glad I came here for the Yelp happy hour! It was nice to meet fellow Yelpers while checking out a new place! Cheers! ^_^ read more

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This place has two things going for it: great food and lots of screens. It can get very busy but if you want to relax and enjoy a feed that grab a seat in the dining area and enjoy the quality food. For me, the food here is up there with the best of pub food in the city. Like other reviewers have mention, the front bar does get busy, especially where there is a major sporting event on so be prepared for a squeeze. One other thing, is that they tend to have boutique beers on tap such as White Rabbit and Fat Yak. read more

Although I would have walked past The Imperial a million times, I went in for the first time a few weeks ago. It was a Sunday and I really had to pee, but wasn't willing to use that creepy underground public loo near Parliament Station. Once I was inside The Imperial the lure of football finals and chips was too much to resist. I called the friend I was supposed to be meeting for a drink at The European and told her I'd downgraded our venue for the afternoon. For reasons unknown, there was a man sitting alone at the bar eating an ice cream sundae, so I decided to have one too. It was good! I didn't have any cash so the barman was fine with me setting up a tab (of course - I always spend a fortune on tabs) and had a wine with my dessert. They had AFL playing in the front bar and a Rugby World Cup match in the back bistro section, so if you're not a fan of sport it's probably best to keep out of The Imperial altogether. There seemed to be a heavy South African contingent (possibly rugby related) but as the afternoon wore on the front bar filled out with people who'd come from the MCG. The atmosphere was busy but not interesting. It's not the usual place I'd hang out in, but should I ever be at the top end of town in need a bathroom and sundae again, I know where to go. read more

Imperial Hotel - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

I quite like the Imperial. If I recall correctly, me and a couple of friends ended up here, drinking champagne at midday on the day our honours results got posted. Really, that's the kind of place it is. The kind where drinking at midday seems reasonable, while still not being the kind of place you'd find droves of hardcore alcoholics. It's dingy, but respectably so. And so's its carpet. read more

Imperial Hotel - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

2 years ago, Cathay Pacific magazine rated the Imperial Hotel as having among the best chicken parmigiana in the world. I found this unusual and put this on my bucket list of things to try if I ever went to Australia. That chance came 2 days ago. The chicken parmigiana is served with a topping of ham, fries but not pasta in Australia. I found Imperial's chicken parmigiana quite ordinary and not sure what the fuss was all about. The Imperial Hotel is actually a pub. Very lively and rocks. I would recommend having a pint there rather than the parmigiana. read more

Went for the schnitty. Was not disappointed. Lucky enough to get the 'Barmy Army Parmy' as the Ashes was on at the time, and boy dud it deliver. A schnitty covered with peas, mash, bangers & gravy. It was a hearty meal and I would devour it again. Lots of screens to watch all the sports, and even a projector out the back in the main bar and also on the rooftop bar. read more

Imperial Hotel - This pub serves Melbourne City's very own lager. Disappointing I know, but don't judge too harshly. - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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Some serious work needed here. The business needs a good overhaul. Our meals took over an hour to be brought out today downstairs, almost a record. And mine was a salad! I politely enquired about their whereabouts after 51 minutes. They were so embarrassed that a server returned my $50, so that part was nice and appropriate and done very well and without fuss. But, there's obvious concerns for anyone against the clock coming here for lunch. Meals were coming out really slowly and everyone was affected, so a serious review of the kitchen operation is essential to make sure meals get out in much better time. While they're at it they should review the way the lamb and Greek salad is put together because mine was mighty bland and needed some spice and seasoning. The dish needs a serious lift because you expect much more for $24. But, the good thing is all I had to pay for was my drinks. A shout out to the young servers here too. They were very polite despite the issues in the kitchen. They were nice to me and other customers and were diligently lined up waiting to get meals out. The fact they didn't get them out in good time is not their fault. Initial review (This review is for the downstairs bistro). Nearby places were busy. Had to eat here or go hungry. I had hoped that the food would have improved since the renovation. It hasn't. I had a very ordinary steak sandwich. It had little to recommend it sadly. The bistro needs a major improvement. read more

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I've been coming here to watch the ice hockey games that are played most Sunday afternoons and Thursday nights. Friendly atmosphere and nice meals. They even offer the delicious Canadian dish "poutine" on the menu. Sounds wrong but give it a go, it's delicious. Big place, lots of seating, good sports pub. read more

Situated in the Paris end of Bourke Street, this old building that is home to the Imperial Hotel is a good place to grab a drink and watch the footy on a Friday night. It's got a great atmosphere (Other than the guy who spewed his guts out right next to us - that was seriously disgusting and god I feel so sorry for the poor girl whose bag got painted in vomit!) and gets quite lively. The place has a dining area, a bar and a 'pub' section with high tables and chairs. I got us a couple of pizzas which were really nice and the bartenders were very good as well. I wouldn't mind going again to grab a parma or something else on the menu. I'm sure it'll be ok. I mean pub food is good man, I love pub food. read more

The Imperial Hotel downstairs has a traditional shabby pub ambiance, reminiscent of pubs visited in the UK and Ireland. But head up the stairs to the rooftop, and you enter a different world.... With stunning views of Parliament House the new, modern rooftop beer garden is the go to spot for tasty pub snacks and libations.They offer numerous beers on tap and happy hour specials on drinks. The burgers are thick, juicy and delicious served with chips and they even have jalapeno poppers on the menu, which is a rare sight in OZ. Btw...they were delicious! A great place to hang out in the CBD! read more

I watched the Alabama and Auburn game and a UFC fight here. The staff was really cool and the beers were super cold. They had a number of local beers on tap. It's also a restaurant but I didn't eat anything. If you're traveling and need a bar to watch U.S. sports this is the place you need to go.. It was about a 10 min walk from the hotel.. Worth checking out on a sunny day.. They also have a rooftop bar as well.. read more

$4.60 for a soda water. A SODA WATER people. Maybe don't come here if you are designated driver. read more

Imperial Hotel - But it does come with fresh lime. - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Fabulous rooftop with great vibe and outlook. Staff are young, attractive and friendly and there's a good range of tap beers too. Foodwise, the menu looks pretty good for tasty pub fare however by 1.30pm they were out of chicken and out of noodles (there goes half the menu) and they only had one chef on so there was a 45-60 min wait. So a little room for improvement here - still at least they were up front about it. Still, on the first sunny, 25 degree day of the season, this is a pretty good place to be! read more

I pass the Imperial Hotel minimum twice a day but always thought it looked like a boring sports bar. I was wrong, downstairs is a sports bar and upstairs is a nice rooftop terrace. We came on a Wednesday night for free comedy which was decent, we laughed and my friend even spat her drink out on the man in front of her because she needed to laugh. I'll be back. read more

Its not a bad venue - its set in a very old building and has a classic 'pub' feel. Alright place to watch sports - big TV's and projector around. If there are any important Canadian sports on they usually air them here - so you get a big crowd. The food is sufficient and a tad on the pricey side. Happy hour is ok - drinks usual price after (perhaps a little bit higher than your average 'pub'.) If its summer and you get there early try and grab a seat in the outdoor area which is quite lovely with the trees, however beware as many homeless people target people sitting outside. read more

The Imperial hotel is a mixed bag these days; a conundrum between modern and classic, trendy and dive venue. In some ways it carries on the spirit of dive that it could dominate the medal tally at the Olympic games for diving. It seems to be very old fashioned and worn downstairs, however some areas are pretty decent, and the food has a great reputation. despite it's other reputation of being completely packed when the corporate work day is over. Upstairs, you'll find an impressive and unmatched view of parliament house, though to be able to view it clearly is a skill itself; on warm days you'll be fighting tooth and nail for a place to stand, hence the view of aforementioned parliament will be blocked out. Gladly though there is some respite from the flock of smokers whom will no-doubt inhabit this area on non-rainy days. Thank-you open kitchen! (One half of the roof is non-smoking.) Most of the beers on tap are the little creatures range; white rabbits and furphy, and the others. Downstairs, it's alright, but not one of those venues you'd head out to if making plans for the week. I am told however, that it's very common for city based work lunches etc. All up, though, it's busy and popular, but you'll find an area to suit. read more

A good pub opposite Parliament House, great location, transport at the door both city loop trains and trams #96 this pub is a fave for English Cricket fans, and is quite busy on AFL game days/nights, however right now it is undergoing extensive renovations so keep in mind it has a little mess and construction noise during the day. The beers are cold, good selection and I am yet to eat there. The restaurant at the rear always seems to be busy so that is a good sign. Staff seem friendly and attentive. A good pit stop venue for a quick beer and regroup for the next stop. read more

Imperial Hotel - Undergoing renovations a little noisy - Sports Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

A classic old building in a superb location in Melbourne. Food and drink prices are not unreasonable. Decor is suitable. Can become quite busy on weekends which is less enjoyable. An opportune place to eavesdrop (or directly discuss) on people who work across the road (i.e., state parliament). read more

Great for Soccer fans since they show soccer games all day, whether it be live or replay. Food is great, recommend the chicken parma and the nachos. Drinks though are a bit pricey but I'm not a heavy drinker so it doesn't affect me too much. Best thing about the place is that it's literally next to the train station. read more

The chicken burger at this restaurant was absolutely disgusting. The chicken was grey and did not taste fresh. In general, this place is overpriced and I would not recommend it. Disappointed. read more

The views from the rooftop are pretty great....well, if you like the architecture of Parliament House! To be honest, except for that it's not that special, and it's full of white middle class people (I personally like a little more diversity in the crowd). They have a cocktail menu but don't seem to always serve them, so you'd best like beer and wine :) read more

The Imperial Hotel is one of the oldest pubs in Melbourne and boasts an extensive list of beers on tap. A hearty atmosphere and good pub menu combine for a fun experience. My only gripe was that the kitchen struggled to cater for our largish group, and my otherwise delicious steak arrived cold. read more

I went to see a match at 4:45 a.m. The bouncers were really nasty and menacing at me accusing me of being drugged and they nearly don't allow me the entrance to the hotel. After 5 minutes dialoguing they allowed me but they still said I was 'on stuff', I had gone straight from bed... read more

I ventured up to the new-ish rooftop bar at the Imperial this week cos it was definitely rooftop weather. The space is big, crowded and the patrons are a strange mix of suits, families and older couples (tourists?). The drinks are not cheap and I didn't stay for food. There are better places in the area if you are after a Melbourne rooftop bar experience. One big plus is that the whole area is a no-smoking zone, so if you are sick of your al-fresco drinking being spoiled by clouds of tobacco smoke, this may be the place for you. Handy tip: the cocktail menu is on the back of the food menu, not on the wine list. read more

This place in a good spot for a drink and something to eat. They have plenty to choose from. We had a few of the appetizers and they were delicious!! read more

Nice outdoor seating right across from parliament however noisy kids running around inside and bathrooms I would rather avoid. However the waitress was sweet with her beer suggestions and offering tastes as we could not decide straight away read more