Watching the game at the pub is a rite of passage.
We’re all fools for the Holy Grail, but with tickets for the AFL Grand Final next week going for hundreds of dollars, forget about being at the MCG. Sorry Gillon McLachlan – not in this cost of living crisis. Instead, head to the pub to get in on the action with a nice cold beer in tow. Paradise.
Anyway, here are our recommendations of some great places to catch the Grand Final this coming Saturday, September 30.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Where to watch the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne
Corner Hotel
- 57 Swan St, Richmond
Located just a kick of the footy away from the good old ‘G, Richmond’s own Corner Hotel lives and breathes all things Aussie rules. With the game on all screens and free entry all day, there are no bookings, so make sure you get down nice and early. Overlooking the backdrop of Melbourne’s city skyline, it’s the perfect summery and chill place to enjoy a celebratory (or consolatory) pint, or two, or three. They’ve even got a post-game party going down in the bandroom after.
The Plough Hotel
- 333 Barkly Street, Footscray
Self-described as, ‘the local’s local’, The Plough Hotel is a reliable pub in every regard. And what’s more reliable of a local than a big old telly showing the footy? Originally built in 1868, this pub has had an incredible makeover – mirroring the evolution of the suburb it resides in. When it comes to footy, The Plough has you covered, encouraging fans to book a table so they can ensure you’ve got the best view. They’ve even got a $10 pint deal for the finals. Score!
The Espy
- 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda
The Hotel Esplanade, known lovingly by the locals as The Espy, is playing the AFL Grand Final live and loud in their iconic Gershwin Room. All the while, they’re going to be hosting bottomless drinks and roaming snacks for three hours. Say no more!
Howler
- 7-11 Dawson St, Brunswick
Brunswick’s much-loved Howler is a staple of the community for good reason. Born out of an old warehouse near the station, it’s one of those great hidden gems that keeps you coming back time and time again. For the Grand Final, they’re putting up an elevated LED screen, meaning that the game can be seen from any vantage point in their garden. You bloody ripper.
The Rose
- 406 Napier St, Fitzroy North
If there’s one pub that embodies what this list is about, it’s The Rose. Over 150 years strong, this community-focused venue is an iconic Melbourne “footy pub”. The Rose provides a classic pub fare using premium products. With a cracking deals on beer throughout the entire footy season, The Rose is a classic pub for lovers of AFL.
Abbots Yard
- 329-341 Victoria St, Abbotsford
To celebrate the footy finals kicking off, the team has installed massive LED screens that’ll stream all of the action live. Don your team colours and book a table for eight – each reservation comes with a jug of Furphy and 16 skewers off the brand-new menu.
Beer DeLuxe Fed Square
- Federation Square, Flinders St
Can’t get a screen bigger than this one; a hidden gem of Federation Square, Beer Deluxe is a bustling venue where excitement never rests. As the grand final approaches, its the perfect place to sit back with a cold frothy in hand as you lap up the CBD atmosphere. Located so close to the MCG, you could even just pop in for a pre-game meal if you’re headed that way.
London Tavern Hotel
- 238 Lennox St, Richmond
As a relaxed watering hole renowned for live TV sport screenings, its covered beer garden offers a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy the game. This pub gem is consistently packed with fervent fans, thanks to its prime location, just a short walk away from the iconic MCG. They’ve just got a massive, brand new screen too.
The Duke of Wellington
- 146 Flinders St, Melbourne
Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping spectacle as the Grand Final takes centre stage at this heritage venue. Established way back in 1853, The Duke of Wellington is Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub. Situated in the heart of the CBD, it’s conveniently located right across from The Forum and a short stroll from MCG, Fed Square, and Flinders Street Station.
College Lawn Hotel
- 36 Greville St, Prahran
The College Lawn Hotel is a spot that is perfect for killing some time with some mates, the beer garden is warm, spacious, and comfortable, perfect for hanging out while you’re watching the match. On top of that, affordable drinks and tasty food make it one of Melbourne’s coolest spots.
Railway Hotel
- 800 Nicholson St, Fitzroy North
Railway Hotel is the place to be as we descend into the throes of the Grand Final fever. You won’t miss a single nanosecond of the footy action as they’re setting up some extra screens in the beer garden and turning their TVs up to 11 for this one.
Great Northern
- 644 Rathdowne St, Carlton
Carlton North’s Great Northern is focused on delivering customers some quality service, quality food, and quality drinks, and it’s paired up with the team chucking on pretty much each and every game in the sporting world, including this year’s Grand Final.
If you’ve got a fever and the only prescription is more footy, head here.
