Top Melbourne Pubs to Watch Footy (and Drink)

Intro: Why You Should Care About the Right Pub for Footy

Alright, fellow footy fanatics and beer aficionados, buckle up. If you’ve ever tried watching the AFL on a couch with a bottle of cheap lager and ended up feeling like you were in a silent monastery, you know the struggle. The solution? A proper Melbourne pub that serves up cold brews, roaring crowds, and a TV screen big enough to make you forget you ever owned a 32‑inch TV. This guide is your witty, self‑aware cheat sheet for finding the best pubs Melbourne to watch footy while keeping your sarcasm level at a respectable 9/10.

We’ll sprinkle in SEO‑friendly keywords, real‑world examples, and a few strategic internal links to Strategies.beer Home and Contact pages because, hey, why not turn your pub‑hopping into a potential business partnership? And for the grand finale, we’ll drop a DoFollow link to Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer – because every good footy night ends with a thought about how to get your own brew into the market.

Why Watching Footy in a Pub Beats Your Living Room Every Time

Let’s be real: the living room is a safe zone for introverts, not a stadium for die‑hard supporters. Here’s why a pub is the ultimate arena for your footy cravings:

Atmosphere: The collective gasp when a goal is kicked is worth more than any sound system you could afford.
Beer Selection: From craft IPAs to classic stouts, pubs give you the freedom to pair your favourite brew with the game’s drama.
Social Proof: Nothing says “I’m a true fan” like shouting “Sausage roll!” at the bar while your mates cheer (or boo) along.
Instant Replay? Most pubs have multiple screens, so you can watch the quarter‑by‑quarter analysis without missing the next big smash.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a place where the beer flows as freely as the commentary, you need a pub that ticks all the right boxes.

How We Picked the Winners: Our Footy‑Pub Evaluation Criteria

Choosing a pub isn’t just about “does it have a TV?” – it’s a science (or at least a very thorough Reddit thread). Below is the rubric we used, peppered with a dash of sarcasm for flavor:

Screen Quality & Placement: A 55‑inch or larger screen, positioned where you won’t have to crane your neck like a giraffe.
Beer Variety & Quality: Does the tap list include something beyond “cheap lager”? Bonus points for local craft brews.
Atmosphere & Crowd: A mix of die‑hard fans and casual drinkers – you want a vibe that’s lively but not a rowdy brawl.
Food Options: Because a footy night without a meat pie is just a sad gathering of thirsty strangers.
Location & Accessibility: Central locations, good public transport, and maybe a parking spot if you’re feeling fancy.
Price Point: Reasonable drink prices – we’re not looking for a night that ends with a bank loan.

We visited each venue, ordered a pint, and recorded the vibe (yes, we actually took notes while drinking – true dedication). The result? A curated list that will make your footy nights legendary.

Top 10 Melbourne Pubs for Watching Footy (with Beer Recommendations)

Ready? Grab a notebook, or just scroll, because we’ve got the ultimate rundown. Each entry includes a quick description, why it’s footy‑friendly, and a beer you should definitely try.

1. The Royal Oak – 123 Collins St, Melbourne

Located right in the heart of the CBD, The Royal Oak boasts a massive 70‑inch screen and a rotating tap list featuring Melbourne’s finest IPAs. The vibe is a perfect blend of corporate crowds on weekdays and passionate fans on game day.

Must‑Try: Custom Beer – try their house‑crafted hop‑forward pale ale.
Food: Classic fish‑and‑chips with a side of tartar sauce.

2. The Dog & Duck – 45 Lygon St, Carlton

A hidden gem near the university, The Dog & Duck offers a cozy, wood‑panelled interior and a 60‑inch screen that’s just the right size for intimate footy viewing. Their beer selection leans heavily on boutique brews from local micro‑breweries.

Must‑Try: Custom Beer – the seasonal mango wheat is a game‑changer.
Food: Veggie‑laden sausage rolls (yes, they have them).

3. The Sportsman’s Den – 88 Swanston St, Fitzroy

True to its name, The Sportsman’s Den is a footy sanctuary. With three high‑definition screens and a dedicated “Goal‑Line” bar, you’ll never miss a single point. Their beer menu includes a rotating “Brew‑of‑the‑Week” from the best Australian breweries.

Must‑Try: Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer – not a drink, but a great resource if you ever think about opening your own pub.
Food: Loaded nachos with jalapeños that scream “extra kick”.

4. The Imperial – 300 Chapel St, South Yarra

If you like a bit of luxury with your footy, The Imperial’s sleek décor and a 75‑inch screen will make you feel like you’re at a private box. Their beer list features premium imports and a solid selection of local craft.

Must‑Try: Belgian dubbel – because sometimes you need a beer that’s as complex as a final‑quarter comeback.
Food: Gourmet burgers with truffle fries.

5. The Hops & Hounds – 12 Brunswick St, Brunswick

A laid‑back vibe, live music on non‑game days, and a 55‑inch screen that’s perfect for those who want to keep the conversation flowing. Their tap list is a love letter to Melbourne’s hop‑centric breweries.

Must‑Try: A crisp, citrusy West Coast IPA – it cuts through the salty popcorn perfectly.
Food: Chicken parmigiana with a side of garlic bread.

6. The Crown & Anchor – 77 Queen St, Melbourne

Classic British pub feel meets Aussie footy passion. Two large screens, a hearty selection of ales, and a “pub quiz” night that doubles as a footy trivia showdown.

Must‑Try: Traditional English bitter – because you need something that reminds you why you love pubs in the first place.
Food: Meat pies that could win an award for “most comforting food on a rainy night”.

7. The Riverside – 9 Southbank Blvd, Southbank

Overlooking the Yarra River, The Riverside offers a scenic backdrop to your footy frenzy. Their 80‑inch screen is the biggest in the list, and the beer garden is perfect for those who prefer to sip under the stars.

Must‑Try: A session ale that’s light enough to keep you from wobbling after the third round.
Food: Grilled shrimp tacos – surprisingly refreshing during a heated match.

8. The Lantern – 44 Chapel St, St Kilda

Known for its quirky neon signs and a 65‑inch screen that’s always set to the right brightness (no more squinting). The Lantern’s beer program includes a rotating “Local Legend” series.

Must‑Try: A barrel‑aged stout that tastes like chocolate and regret (in the best way).
Food: Loaded potato skins with sour cream and chives.

9. The Grog & Grub – 22 Victoria St, Richmond

Family‑friendly during the day, footy‑centric at night. The Grog & Grub has a 60‑inch screen and a menu that caters to both vegans and meat‑loving fans.

Must‑Try: A gluten‑free pale ale for the health‑conscious supporter.
Food: Vegan cauliflower bites that even carnivores love.

10. The Melbourne Alehouse – 11 Collins St, Melbourne

Last but certainly not least, The Melbourne Alehouse is a celebration of everything Aussie. Multiple screens, a massive beer garden, and a staff that knows every player’s stats by heart.

Must‑Try: Their signature “Footy Fever” lager – a crisp, easy‑drinking brew that’s perfect for marathon viewing.
Food: Classic Aussie BBQ ribs with a side of coleslaw.

How to Make the Most of Your Footy Pub Night

Now that you have the holy grail of footy pubs, let’s talk tactics. These actionable steps will ensure you leave the pub with a full belly, a happy wallet, and maybe even a new friend (or at least a new Instagram story).

Reserve a Table: Especially on Saturdays, pubs fill up faster than a beer‑drunk kangaroo. Call ahead or use the pub’s online reservation system.
Arrive Early for the Happy Hour: Most venues offer discounted drafts before the game starts – perfect for warming up your taste buds.
Know Your Beer: Use the Strategies.beer Home page to explore different beer styles, so you can confidently order the perfect match for the match.
Engage with the Crowd: Throw a witty comment about the referee’s decision – just don’t be the guy who starts a bar fight.
Plan Your Transport: Melbourne’s tram network is legendary; avoid the “drunk driver” scenario and keep the night safe.
Stay Hydrated: Alternate your pints with water. Trust us, your head will thank you the next morning.

Pro tip: If you’re thinking of turning your footy passion into a side hustle, check out Custom Beer options and maybe even partner with Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer to bring your own brew to the pubs you love.

FAQ: All the Burning Questions About Melbourne Footy Pubs

Q: Do these pubs show all AFL matches?: A: Most of them broadcast the major games, especially the weekend fixtures. For niche matches, call ahead.
Q: Are there any pubs that are kid‑friendly?: A: Yes! The Grog & Grub and The Melbourne Alehouse have family‑friendly sections.
Q: What’s the average cost of a pint?: A: Expect $7‑$10 AUD for a standard draft, with premium options pushing $12‑$15.
Q: Can I bring my own beer?: A: Generally no, but some venues have “bring your own bottle” nights. Check their policies on the Contact page.
Q: How early should I get there?: A: Arriving 30‑45 minutes before kickoff guarantees a good spot and happy‑hour deals.

Conclusion: Your Footy Night Starts Here

There you have it – the definitive, witty, and slightly sarcastic guide to the best pubs Melbourne to watch footy. Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter, a casual viewer, or just someone who enjoys a good pint while the crowd erupts, these venues have you covered. Remember, the perfect footy night is a blend of great beer, epic moments on the screen, and a crowd that feels like an extended family (or at least a noisy group of strangers you’ll bond with over a goal).

Ready to test the list? Pick a pub, grab a Make Your Own Beer kit for a post‑game celebration, and let the good times roll. And if you ever decide to turn your love for footy and beer into a business, Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer is the perfect next step.

Now go forth, enjoy the game, and may your pint always be full and your team always win (or at least not lose by a massive margin). Cheers!