Pub of the Year: The Dry Dock

Balmain

What a difference turfing the pokies makes, huh? Not to mention a multimillion dollar renovation in 2023 that turned Balmain’s oldest pub from a run-down drinker’s den into a sizable split-use hotel of aged brass, leather and dark timber. The Dry Dock doesn’t feel too slick for its own good either, largely thanks to an engaged floor team, dog-friendly attitude and a public bar that’s comfortably full most nights.

A spot by the fireplace is one of the most sought-after seats on the Peninsula in winter – and all the better with a glass of Barbaresco from the terrific wine list – while summer afternoons are all about schooners under streetside umbrellas and seafood platters in the hatted dining room.

Is a Sydney pub still a Sydney pub if there’s no chicken schnitzel on the menu? We say “yes, absolutely”, especially when the kitchen cares enough to use Berkshire-breed pork for a juicy crumbed cutlet instead, and does a tiger prawn and lettuce sandwich on soft white bread that feels more Aussie than any bit of crumbed chook. Head for a cold one down at Mort Bay today.