Hidden in an industrial estate in Braeside, miles from anywhere, is this hidden gem. The brewery…read morebar serving their beers brewed across the road has plenty of tap and bottled beers on offer. I went for the Hop Bomb, a great west coast US style IPA and a delicious spiced dark saison. Unfortunately I was driving so could only sample the 2 pots but would have loved to try the barrel aged stout. Just means I'll have to come back! The bar is only open from 4pm on Fridays and from midday on the weekends. I'm surprised they don't at lunchtime on Fridays as it was very busy at 4.30 when I visited. They have a smoker or barbecue out front which looked tempting. There is food available but I didn't try any during my fleeting visit. Loved the vibe of the place; very laid back. Bar staff friendly and knowledgeable about their beers. The place has beer barrels on racks against the wall and makes you feel like you're in a brewery setting and not just a bar. Will definitely be going back!

Where is Braeside? This is the question people are going to ask if you invite them to meet you at…read moreBoatrocker Brewery. The answer is probably a $50 Uber ride from wherever you are, but it is indeed worth it. A converted workshop lined with all manner of oak barrels, it's really not a place you go for ambience. Instead, it is a place to go get unique, unusual beers served by friendly brewers who will chat you up about beer, BBQ, and pretzels. What more could you possibly want? As I am partial to sours, farmhouse ales, and saisons, this place is seriously my beat. But, they also offer some whisky barrel aged stouts, which could come in handy over the long Melbourne winters. Their IPAs and pale ales are also of a pretty high standard. There is not a lot on offer food-wise, except some excellent german-style pretzels (served cold, unfortunately) and a cheese board. But, seeing as how BBQ is both standard beer food and super trendy right now, they will have the smoker up and running soon. Hey boys, I really think you should give tri-tip a go. Certainly, I will be back. That was never in question.