This longstanding watering hole on the banks of the Moorabool River outside Geelong has been restored to its gold rush glory by the team behind local venuesBarwon Edge,Felix andAlma.

Prawn cocktail,pork chop with apple and cabbage slaw,and oysters Kilpatrick are some of the more retro items on the menu,while monster-sized fish burgers,chicken parmas and three cuts of steak are also in the mix. There’s also roasted tomato and ’nduja risotto,and veg burgers made with lion’s mane mushroom,known for its meaty chew.

Deep-green carpets,tan banquettes and olive-green wainscoting are part of the cosy design inside,which covers dining spaces and a function area. In summer,the wide and leafy beer garden dotted with picnic tables is the best seat in town.