Cover image credit: London Tavern Hotel
If you’re heading to the AFL Grand Final this year, you’re in for more than just four quarters of footy magic, you’re also diving into the electric buzz of Melbourne, one of Australia’s top hospitality cities.
Whether you’ve scored tickets to the big dance or you’re just keen to soak it all in, Now Book It has rounded up a top tier list of venues perfect for pre game bites, post match celebrations, or even settling in to watch the action live on the big screen.
1. London Tavern Hotel
If there’s one place that screams Grand Final vibes, it’s The London Tavern. Tucked away in Richmond, this iconic pub is a go-to for footy fans every year, and for good reason. With its massive beer garden, cold beers on tap, and screens everywhere you look, it’s the kind of place where you can feel the energy of the game even if you’re not inside the ‘G’.
Whether you’re meeting mates for a pre-game pint, settling in to watch every quarter live, or rolling in after the siren for post match celebrations, The London Tavern is a true local institution that knows how to do Grand Final day right.
Location: 238 Lennox St, Richmond
Hours: Daily 12pm – late
2. Glenferrie Hotel
ust a few train stops from the city, the Glenferrie Hotel is your perfect Grand Final day HQ, especially if you’re looking to avoid the CBD crowds but still want in on all the footy action. This Hawthorn favourite serves up classic pub vibes with a modern twist, plus plenty of screens to catch every moment of the game live.
Whether you’re heading in early for a big brekkie and a cheeky pint or planning to park yourself in the beer garden all afternoon, Glenferrie’s got the space, the atmosphere, and the menu to make your Grand Final day a winner (even if your team isn’t).
Location: 324 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn
Hours: Daily 11.30am – late
3. Platform 28
If you’re looking for a Grand Final spot that brings together great food, flowing drinks, and a seriously stylish setting, Platform 28 in Docklands is the place to be. Housed in a converted railway goods shed, this modern pub blends history with a buzzing game day atmosphere, perfect whether you’re warming up for the first bounce or watching the whole thing live on the big screens.
With indoor and outdoor spaces, a solid drinks list, and a menu full of elevated pub classics, Platform 28 is a top pick for footy fans who want to celebrate in style without straying too far from the action.
Location: 82 Village St, Docklands
Hours: Monday to Saturday 12pm – late
4. Nixie Nox
Don’t let the size fool you, Richmond’s smallest pub knows how to bring the energy when it counts. Nixie Nox may be compact, but it’s bursting with personality, flavour, and footy spirit.
Just a short stroll from the G, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your Grand Final day with cracking cocktails, tasty bites, and a buzzing crowd. Whether you’re pulling up a stool pre-game, catching every moment live on the screen, or staying late as the DJ takes over, Nixie Nox proves that big celebrations can definitely come in small packages.
Location: 141 Swan St, Richmond
Hours: Wednesday to Thursday 4pm – late;
Friday to Sunday 2pm – late
5. The Precinct Hotel
When it comes to watching the AFL Grand Final in Richmond, The Precinct Hotel is about as iconic as it gets. Just a stone’s throw from the MCG, this powerhouse venue is known for its electric game day atmosphere, huge screens, live entertainment, and massive beer garden that fills up with footy fans faster than a forward in the goal square.
Whether you’ve got tickets to the big game or you’re watching it live from the bar with a beer in hand, The Precinct is the kind of place where win or lose, you’re guaranteed a good time.
Location: 60 Swan St, Cremorne
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 12pm – late
6. Hotel Collingwood
Think Grand Final day, but with a Collingwood twist. Hotel Collingwood isn’t your average game-day pub; it’s where footy fever meets effortlessly cool vibes, craft beers, and seriously good food. Head down with your mates to catch the game on the big screens and soak up the buzz of the big day in one of Melbourne’s most iconic suburbs.
Hotel Collingwood brings together the best of sport and style. It’s laid back, it’s local, and it’s ready to turn your Grand Final into something a little more memorable.
Location: 376 Smith Street, Collingwood
Hours: Daily 12pm – late
7. Beehive Hotel
Tucked away in Richmond, the Beehive Hotel is the kind of pub that feels like a local secret, until Grand Final day, when it buzzes with loyal regulars and footy fans alike.
With its classic corner pub charm, hearty pub meals, and ice-cold beers, the Beehive is all about keeping things simple, welcoming, and real.
It’s the perfect place to settle in, watch the big game on screen, and soak up the authentic game day atmosphere without the chaos. Flying your team’s colours or just in it for the good vibes? The Beehive is a solid pick for a relaxed, no-fuss Grand Final experience.
Location: 84 Barkers Rd, Hawthorn
Hours: Daily 12pm – late
8. Cornish Arms
If you want a place where the footy feels just right, the Cornish Arms in Richmond is a top pick. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional pub charm, this spot is perfect for fans who want to enjoy the Grand Final in a relaxed, friendly setting. With plenty of screens to catch every kick, a great selection of beers on tap, and hearty meals to fuel your day, the Cornish Arms strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid-back.
It’s a reliable local favourite that always brings the good times, no matter if you’re starting early or winding down late.
Location: 163A Sydney Rd, Brunswick
Hours: Monday to Thursday 4pm – late;
Friday to Sunday 12pm – late
9. Sporting Globe Richmond
When it comes to watching the AFL Grand Final with serious game day energy, Sporting Globe Richmond is hard to beat. This massive sports bar is designed for fans who want all the action on giant screens, with plenty of space to gather your crew and cheer on your team loud and proud.
With a menu stacked full of pub classics, cold beers flowing, and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to soak up the excitement, whether you’ve got tickets to the MCG or are watching from the sidelines. Sporting Globe is where the footy feels alive, 24/7.
Location: 288 Bridge Rd, Richmond
Hours: Daily 11.30am – late
10. The Grand Hotel
Classic, cosy, and bursting with footy spirit, The Grand Hotel is a Richmond staple that knows how to do Grand Final day right. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and plenty of screens to catch the game, it’s the perfect spot to gather with mates, enjoy cold drinks, and soak up every moment of the action.
Stop in for a pre-game drink, catch the full four quarters live, or swing by post-match to keep the celebration going. From the friendly locals to the buzzing atmosphere, The Grand delivers a true footy day experience right in the heart of Richmond.
Location: 333 Burnley St, Richmond
Hours: Daily 12pm — late
