Now Open: The Revamped Blackwood Hotel Is a Prime Pitstop for Your Next Journey Towards the Great Dividing Range
Discover this rejuvenated haven in the hills when you're searching for a top-quality pub feed during a road trip into the mountains.
You can't have a town without a pub. Fortunately, the Blackwood Hotel looks as good as it ever has in its 156-year history, having recently reopened following an acquisition and substantial renovation. Located in Blackwood, a historic gold mining town about an hour's drive from Melbourne, this tight-knit community on the Lerderderg River now has a stylishly refurbished haven in the hills.
Recognised as Victoria's oldest continuously licensed weatherboard hotel, new owners John Scardamaglia and Jerry Dimas were careful to maintain the original pub's character. However, with the addition of a few quality-of-life improvements, the relaunched venue now seamlessly blends modern comfort with the charm of its rich history. While the duo have never owned a pub before, they share more than 50 years of hospitality experience at the helm of much-loved venues, including Berth, Cargo and Down The Rabbit Hole.
"The Blackwood Hotel is the historic jewel of Blackwood's main street and it's our intention to respect its heritage for many future generations to enjoy," said co-owner Dimas, who moved to Blackwood eight years ago with his family. "Our aim is to create an inviting and comfortable venue for locals and visitors and serve the best possible meals and beverages."
As for the food menu, it's a modern Australian affair with several nods to global cuisine. Head Chef Andrew Papagiannis has elevated pub favourites with ingredients from local makers and growers. Here, signature dishes include a classic parma with tomato sugo, and pork belly with jus, Italian slaw and apple gel. The chef also pays tribute to his heritage with a lamb shoulder dish featuring Greek salad, tzatziki, chips and flat bread.
The drinks menu is focused on local sips, with a solid selection of brews on tap, along with more tinnies and longnecks in the fridge. The wine list is a little more expressive, bringing together award-winning drops from across the region. Think boutique and highly rated wineries like Yarrabank, Fallen Giants and Shadowfax poured by the glass, or available as a bottle when you're dining in with pals.
Following its renovation, the Blackwood Hotel is perfect for casual dining and celebrating milestones, with a private dining room that can squeeze in up to 25 guests. When the sun is out, the viewing deck is bound to be a prime position, with the scenic Wombat State Forest stretching into the distance. Considering the township's proximity to the big smoke, the Blackwood Hotel now serves as the ideal waypoint during a trip into the hills.
The Blackwood Hotel is open Monday–Friday from 12pm–late and Saturday–Sunday from 11.30am–late at 1 Golden Point Road, Blackwood. Head to the website for more information.
- Where to Find the Best Ice Cream and Gelato in Melbourne
- CP Picks: The Best Gifts for Arts Lovers — From Gallery Prints to Music Gigs
- The Best Private Dining Rooms in Melbourne
- CP Picks: The Best Gifts for People Who Are Never Home — According to Travel Writers
- CP Picks: From Hot Sauce to Handblown Glasses — Small-Batch Gifts for Big Foodies
- The Best Seafood Restaurants in Melbourne