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Overview
The State of Origin Game Two is taking place on Wednesday, June 17, and we have the lowdown on the best local venues to catch all of the action. Whether you're backing the Maroons to even the score or hoping the Blues keep the winning streak alive, these New South Wales venues are going big on atmosphere, pub feeds and live sport energy for rugby league's greatest rivalry. Each of these pubs is also listed on the pub+ app. It's free to sign up, there are over 350 participating pubs, and you earn points on every purchase, which then turn into rewards and prizes for you and your mates to enjoy. Download the pub+ app and get more from your local this footy season.
Here's where to lock in for kickoff during Game Two.
Forest Hotel
Forest Hotel
Forest Hotel has plenty of room to spread out for Game Two, from its lively sports bar lined with big screens to the sprawling beer garden where a mega screen keeps every moment front and centre. Whether you're locking in with a group or bringing the whole family along, there are indoor and outdoor dining spaces to suit the occasion. On the menu, expect all the pub staples: schnitzels, burgers, pizzas and hearty classics designed for long nights spent watching the footy. There's also an outdoor play area to keep kids entertained while the grown-ups stay locked into the action.
Gymea Hotel
Gymea Hotel
Down in the Shire, the Gymea Hotel has a relaxed but rowdy atmosphere that makes watching the State of Origin out and about so much fun. Packed with energy on big sporting nights, this venue balances classic pub comfort with a modern sports-bar feel.
At the bistro, the menu covers everything from steaks and hand-crumbed chicken schnitzels to share plates and burgers, making it easy to settle in well before kickoff. During games, the bistro also offers a Sports Bar menu that's packed with specials including beef nachos with guacamole, loaded fries with bacon, cheese and sauce, and mac and cheese arancini. Add in flowing drinks, plenty of screens in the Sports Lounge, and a pumping crowd, and you've got yourself a great Game Two setup.
Caringbah Hotel
Caringbah Hotel
Also located in the Shire is the Caringbah Hotel. The go-to spot is an easy pick for State of Origin as the Beer Garden (which has a retractable roof) is decorated with TVs and a huge projector screen, so you won't miss a minute of this action-packed match. The Caringbah Bistro uses the best locally sourced ingredients in its menu, which includes salt and pepper calamari, chilli-BBQ lamb ribs, and hand-stretched pizzas. Whether you're after an ice-cold pint or a meal with mates, the Caringbah Hotel is a local favourite for a reason.
Terrey Hills Tavern
Terrey Hills Tavern
For those north of the bridge, Terrey Hills Tavern offers a spacious, family-friendly take on Origin night (without sacrificing atmosphere). The sprawling tavern has plenty of room to spread out with dedicated sports viewing areas, big screens and an obsessed Origin crowd. The menu leans into easy pub fare with chicken parmigianas, burgers, steaks and share-friendly options all on offer. Whether you're arriving early for dinner or dropping in just before kickoff, Terrey Hills Tavern has enough space for multiple groups and family members to enjoy Game Two.
Jewells Tavern
Jewells Tavern
If you're watching from the Newcastle or Lake Macquarie region, Jewells Tavern is an easy choice for Game Two. Big on space (and even bigger on live sport energy), the tavern delivers exactly what you want from an Origin night venue: large-format screens and flowing drinks. The food offering keeps things classic with succulent steaks, fresh seafood, delicious pastas, and easy pub favourites. You'll have a prime viewing position anywhere in the venue and access to ice-cold beer on tap. It's a no-brainer when looking to pull up a stool for State of Origin Game Two.
Download the pub+ app, and get more from your local this footy season.
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