Less than 20 minutes from Batemans Bay, Steampacket Hotel is the new top spot to eat, drink and be merry. Photo: Steampacket Hotel.
Some days just call for a hearty pub feed but, if you live in Batemans Bay, you might have trouble finding one.
The town’s popular watering hole, the Bayview Hotel, shut down for renovations last year and is still closed until further notice.
There are still clubs and bars around, but you’ll have to look a little further afield to find that classic pub atmosphere.
Luckily, there’s a spot just up the road in Nelligen ready to carry the baton. And if you’d rather not drive, they even have a courtesy bus running from Broulee to Long Beach.
The Steampacket Hotel is an old-school pub set just across from the Clyde River.
The hotel’s bar, bistro and beer garden underwent a complete renovation in late 2023. A modern touch was needed, but the team ensured they didn’t compromise the warm, relaxed vibe their patrons love.
As for the food, regulars say the classic menu is top-notch, and the weekly specials always go down a treat.
Venue manager Jake Adams is keen to welcome locals from up and down the coast alongside holiday travellers.
“We’ve got everything here,” he says.
“Fantastic food, experienced bartenders, a beautiful setting, genuine community, and a packed live music roster that will always be free. But it’s our atmosphere that really sets us apart.
“Our staff love getting to know regulars and having a chat with people passing through on holiday, which I think is something a lot of places miss.”
The pub’s massive beer garden is always a hit with the kids, equipped with Jumbo Jenga, totem tennis and more on lush grass. Comfortable, covered seating nearby is a plus for adults, too.
You’ll find a great selection of wine, cocktails and beers on tap indoors at the air-conditioned front bar.
Steampacket can also cater for and host a range of private events, including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and wakes. The Jungle Room offers an intimate setting complete with an open fireplace, lounge seats and golden lighting.
Steampacket has a solid reputation with local foodies for its seasonal menu. Traditional pub eats, wood-fired pizzas and creative weekly specials are served in the family-friendly restaurant.
“Every one of our classic meals is prepared to a really high standard,” Jake says.
“You have your usual schnitties, parmigiana, steak, local seafood, burgers, chips and salads. Our head chef also designs new specials every week; he’s incredibly talented and loves to introduce flavours from all over the world.
“And our wood-fired pizzas are super popular; we handmake our own dough for those.”
The team even perfected their own gluten-free pizza base, which Jake and his wife reckon tastes way better than anywhere else on the coast.
The kitchen is open from 12 pm until 9 pm, seven days a week. Kids are well catered for, and if you don’t feel like dining in, you’re welcome to order ahead for takeaway.
Not keen to drive? Ring and book a seat on the courtesy bus, which operates on demand between Broulee and Long Beach. Driver Mark is happy to chat about your night while he gets you home safe and sound.
“The courtesy bus makes us a great option for people in Batemans Bay, since they don’t have a traditional pub at the moment,” Jake says.
“It’s an important service because, as any local will tell you, public transport on the South Coast is non-existent and taxis aren’t always reliable.”
Upstairs, accommodation is Steampacket’s cherry on top.
There are five clean and comfortable rooms to choose from, ranging from double to family-sized accommodations. Each is equipped with air conditioning, a TV and an ensuite.
There you go, Batemans Bay; if you’ve been missing a classic pub feed, Steampacket Hotel might just be your new local.
Steampacket Hotel is open seven days a week from 11:30 am until late at 963 Kings Highway, Nelligen. To make a booking, order takeaway, or organise your next private function, get in touch on 6421 1092.
Original Article published by Morgan Kenyon on Region Canberra.
