How far would you drive for some Sizzler-style cheese toast? 'Cos we're happy to spend an hour heading up to the Blackwood Hotel for a little slice of nostalgia and a frosty pint to match.
Nestled just at the start of the historic mining town Blackwood, enjoy a drive up through the town's imposing namesake forest before arriving. In the 2016 census there were less than 100 residents in town, so you know this is the real deal.
The pub (Victoria's oldest continuously licensed weatherboard hotel if you're a history buff) dates back to 1868. The bespoke renovations have given it a bright and airy outlook while retaining those key historic features, like Cobb & Co signage and original wallpaper.
Owners Jerry Dimas and John Scardamaglia are old hospo hands working together at Berth, Cargo and Down The Rabbit Hole, but it's their first foray into the world of pubs.
"The Blackwod Hotel is the historic jewel of Blackwood's main street and it's our itnention to respect its heritage for many future generations to enjoy," Dimas says, who made the tree-change up to Blackwood eight years ago with his family.
"Our aim is to create an inviting and comfortable venue for locals and visitors and to serve the best possible meals and beverages."
On the menu you can expect some global influences as well as traditional pub faves. Their Sher wagyu is sourced locally and head chef Andrew Papagiannis has leaned into his Greek heritage with a whopping and tender lamb shoulder.
Our personal fave is the Sizzler toast, which was often cooked up by Scardamaglia for staffies at previous venues and since found its way onto the menu. At just $8 you can't not order a side or turn that bad boy into a drinking snack while you're perched up at the front bar.
Outside there's a huge deck overlooking the main drag, reminiscent of the Byron Bay hinterland rather than the chilly Melbourne hills, perfect for whiling away the afternoon. At just 90 minutes from Melbourne this is a cracking roadtrip destination and a great spot to get out of town for a bite and soak up some history.
The Blackwood Hotel is open seven days a week from 12pm-late Monday-Friday and 11.30am-late Saturday and Sunday. For reservations and more, head over here.
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