Food is only part of the reason you’d rock up to The Eltham. Some days, lunch might take 45 minutes to arrive, but the vibe, the craic, the buzz – that’s why people flock to this beautiful pub with its wrought-iron veranda and sprawling, split-level beer-garden that holds 250 punters.

All are welcome – dogs, kids, teens, the extended family – it’s that kind of casual watering hole with easy-drinking local wines, 12 taps pouring craft beer, and a modern menu of pub classics (not to mention kangaroo mince on toast with horseradish cream).

The Eltham Burger with house pickles delivers beefy, saucy joy while the vegetarian-friendly fried celeriac burger has a crunch to rival any fish-and-chip shop potato scallop. Star chef Alanna Sapwell-Stone may have moved on, but the specials board still spruiks fun one-offs such as glazed pork skewers with blood orange, and Irish-style smoked bacon and stew.

At the end of the day, though, the winner is still the chicken parmy: a generous slab of breast with good ham, loads of mozzarella, chips and crisp salad. Let the good times roll.

Good to know: A roster of respected touring bands runs weekly.

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