Well, this appears to be another of those Shamrock hotels that I seem to be encountering as I…read morewandering around regional Victoria. Maybe it has something to do with the number of Irish that ended up coming out this way, though being located in the Gold Fields probably does give a pretty good reason. Yeah, this pub wasn't too bad, but not a favourite, probably due to the limited beer selection. Yet, I can't really complain as it did have some charm about it.

We went for a weekend lunchtime counter meal. The menu looked exciting, although it was surprising…read morethere was no lamb option for mains. Vegetarian main options were limited so one of our party requested a "double size" arancini entree. Unfortunately she was served two entree plates which didn't seem logical as a main meal. Beer battered fish and chips were good, porterhouse steak was overcooked and a bit tough but the disappointment was the crispy pork belly which was covered in so much unnecessary gravy that it ended up soggy and bland. We felt the meal might be rescued with a dessert from the pastry cabinet - the mars bar cake was delicious but the cherry tart was a bit on the old side and sadly was mouldy in the pastry. All in all, eaten there before and enjoyed it, and even though the service was excellent, we would go elsewhere in future.

A craft beer bar out in country Victoria - who would have thought. Well, since it is Kyneton I…read moreprobably shouldn't be all that surprised, and as I've discovered Piper Street is sort of one of those trendy cafe strips, though it still have that country feel about it. I guess coming up to Kyneton has exposed me to that trendy country atmosphere, something that I haven't seem all that much in my other forways out into the bush. As for this pub I have to admit that it's pretty cool, and my friend's whom I found playing a game of pool out the back, thought so as well. They have a decent selection of craft beers, though it isn't a large as some of the inner city offerings. However, what I have come to learn from my travels in the country, is that the staff here are incredibly friendly, and more than happy to help you out.

This is a wonderfully unexpected pub in Kyneton, a little country town just over an hour north west…read moreof Melbourne (directly accessibly on the V-Line from Southern Cross station). It's a proper craft beer bar, offering a wide variety for all tastes, as well as a good selection of other drinks. Also on offer is carefully selected, delicious wine and sumptuous food. There's a quaint little courtyard, a substantial upper deck balcony offering outside seating and plenty of room inside by the bar or in a separate dining area. The warm welcome you'll receive puts many Melbourne bars to shame, and although it's a little on the expensive side, a place like this is worth it. We ordered a pot of beer from Belgium, one of the nicest glasses of wine I've ever had, and a cheese platter. Absolutely delightful. If you're up this way, the Royal George is a must.