BrewDog Pentridge

Overview

Legendary Scottish brewery BrewDog didn't hold back when it came to creating its first Melbourne venue. Off the back of the brand's 2019 Aussie debut in Brisbane, it unveiled this absolute monster of a brew bar within the historic Pentridge Prison site in November 2022.

Done in partnership with Australian Venue Co (Harlow, The Smith, State of Grace), the $3 million beer bar spans two spacious levels within the prison's E Division building. At 12,000 square feet, it's got room for 500 punters; complete with a ground floor dining room and den, three upstairs function spaces, and a gigantic beer garden with its own container bar and dedicated games area.

From the bars comes a 20-strong tap beer lineup, starring numerous BrewDog drops alongside a rotation of guest brews. Favourites like the Dead Pony Club pale ale ($14.40), the Punk XPA ($14.90) and the Elvis Juice American-style IPA ($15.90) make an appearance, as do newcomers like an E Division pale ale ($14.90). Expect drops from the likes of Hop Nation and Hawkers, too.

To match, there's a sprawling menu of classic pub fare, featuring an impressive ratio of plant-based and gluten-free options. It jumps from a range of schnitties, parmas, tacos and burgers — including one done with XPA-braised brisket ($27.95) — to pizzas and a whole stack of wing varieties. Grazing plates include the likes of buffalo chicken loaded fries ($18.95), and haloumi with native pepper berry ($18.95); while the Hoppy Meal option gets you a burger, a side and a beer icypole for $25.95.

Like all good pubs, weekly specials abound here — from Monday's two-for-one vegan menu, to an all-you-can-eat wings situation each Wednesday.

Images: Anna Kucera