Want to watch Sydney and Queensland battle it out for the State of Origin without having everyone crowd around the TV in the living room like a pack of sardines? You’re in luck, because some of Melb’s finest pubs and bars are screening the games. Plus, you’ll even be able to grab a parma and a pint whilst you watch!
Here are the bars and pubs screening the State of Origin this Wednesday. Remember, Game 1 is on this Wednesday at the MCG. Kick-off 7:30pm.
Munich Brauhaus
This one sounds epic. The Bavarian, Munich Brauhaus and The Bavarian Beerhaüs are screening all the State of Origin games, and they're throwing in 10c chicken wings, plus football-sized feasts. Did we mention the 1-litre glass beer boots and 2-litre beer towers? Details here.
The Corner Hotel
Richmond
Richmond’s finest bar and pub venue (which also doubles as a concert hall) is parading blue and maroon, screening the game on all TV across the venue. Yep, even in their newly refurb'd beer garden (namely called “The Megatron”) – make sure you book to avoid missing out on tables. Details here.
The Empress Hotel
Fitzroy North
Fitzroy North’s favourite, The Empress, is screening all three State Of Origin games. They’re even planning drinks and food specials for the evening, so make sure you take full advantage of chowing down whilst you support your team. Details here.
Transport
CBD
Of course Transport are getting in on the action. Not a bad spot to watch the game if you can't get to the MCG. Transport will have the game running live and loud on all screens, plus their new Ketel One Spritz cocktail on tap and special pricing on Bundaberg Small Batch all night. Details here.
Richmond Club Hotel
Richmond
This is about as close as you're gonna get to the G' without being in it. The guys at Richmond Club are playing the game live and loud on all screen around the public bar. They're also running pre-game parmas for $16 and happy hour from 5pm - 7pm. Details here.
The Sporting Globe
Various
Having numerous locations around town, The Sporting Globe is hosting the battle of the year (for sport, that is) on the big screen with sound. There'll be drink and food discounts for those with a membership, so jump on it. Details here.
Tokosan
Prahran
How do free drinks while watching the game sound? Tokosan are running 'drinks on us' from kick-off until the first points are scored this Wednesday night. The doors will open from 3pm though if you wanna get there early. Keep an eye peeled for the new winter menu too. Details here.
The Precinct Hotel
Cremorne
The Precinct is one of our favourite sports venues, and they'll be slinging pub-style food whilst you watch State of Origin, with everything from gluten-free to vegetarian—to make sure everyone is a happy punter. They also have $15 Parma’s from 5pm on Wednesdays. Score! Detail here.
Middle Park Hotel
Middle Park
Not only are they screening the game on the big screen, with every pint of XXXX Gold that you down, you have the chance to go into the draw to win tickets to go and see the State of Origin live! Get drinking, guys. Details here.
Garden State Hotel
CBD
With the MCG only a short walk from Garden State, you'd expect these guys to be all over State of Origin. The beer garden will be set up with large screen, cold beer and good vibes. Better get there early to nab a table though: this place is busy at the best of times. Details here.
P.J. O'Briens
Southgate
Head on down to this Irish classic and dine on a porterhouse with Guinness butter, chips and a salad (with a half pint or house wine) for just $20! Nothing like digging into a hearty meal whilst supporting your team colours. There's also live music after each game too. Details here.
Waterside Hotel
CBD
If you’re heading to the game, join the team at Waterside Hotel for a pre-drink and dinner, but if you’re heading to the pub for the screening, they’re doing all three across all screens at the pub. They’re also doing a burger and a pot for $20, when you present a ticket, so eat up. Details here.
Image credit: Annika Kafcaloudis