The Best Family-Friendly Pubs in Melbourne

Whether the sun’s out or the fire’s roaring, there’s something endlessly comforting about a good old-fashioned pub lunch — especially when the whole family’s invited. From pint-sized portions to playgrounds and pram-friendly corners, Melbourne’s pubs have levelled up their family game, serving up more than just parmas and pints. Think colouring stations, kids eat free deals, and enough space to let little legs roam.

So round up the crew — big and small — and discover the city’s most delightful, family-friendly pubs where everyone leaves happy (and full). Here are our top picks.

Anglers Tavern

Anglers Tavern Maribyrnong is a sprawling riverside dream for families craving fun and relaxation. The epic Kids Quarters outdoor playground — complete with bikes, trikes, a giant Scrabble wall, and noughts and crosses — keeps little adventurers endlessly entertained. Meanwhile, parents kick back in the lush beer garden or cosy bistro, knowing the kids can roam safely.

Don’t miss the show-stopping soft serve sundaes — your kids will lose their sweet little minds over them. It’s playful, peaceful, and pure family magic by the river.

2 Anglers Way, Maribyrnong

Trinity St Kilda

Trinity St Kilda is pure magic for families, all laidback Sunday bliss with a splash of seaside nostalgia. Out back, a sun-drenched play zone awaits, where kids can climb aboard a vintage wooden boat marooned in golden sand, peek out from a beachy cubby house, or perch atop a lifeguard chair mid-adventure. Grown-ups can unwind nearby with a spritz in hand, nibbling from a top-tier menu. With a dedicated kids’ offering and pet-friendly vibes, it’s an effortless charmer in the heart of St Kilda.

2 Brighton Road, St Kilda 

Victoria Hotel

The Victoria Hotel in Yarraville is the dream for dining out with kids in tow. This charming pub delivers big on both style and substance, with a gated outdoor playground, indoor kids’ room packed with books and games, and Sunday entertainment that includes face painting and balloon magic. Mondays? Kids eat free. There are highchairs, change tables, and plenty of room for prams. All the while, you’re sipping a wine in the sun-drenched courtyard. Pure, effortless brilliance.

188 Hyde Street, Yarraville

Brewdog Pentridge

Housed in the historic Pentridge Prison precinct, BrewDog Pentridge is a surprisingly perfect pick for a family day out. The spacious venue boasts a dedicated kids’ menu (think “Hoppy Meals”), outdoor games like giant Connect 4, arcade machines, and loads of pram space. There are even change tables and high chairs on hand. While the kids play, you can sip craft brews and enjoy burgers, wings or wood-fired pizza. Dog-friendly and full of charm — this one’s a winner for all, big or small.

E-Division, 1 Champ Street, Coburg

Braeside Brewing Co.

Braeside Brewing Co. in Mordialloc is a family favourite for good reason. Run by local parents, this relaxed brewery has everything: a gated kids’ corner packed with toys, a grass courtyard, outdoor deck, and plenty of pram space. Kids meals are generous — and half price on Sundays — while adults can indulge in wood-fired pizzas and tasting paddles of their excellent beer. With board games, pencils, and warm, welcoming service, it’s the ultimate stress-free dining spot for families.

43 Governor Road, Mordialloc

Hotel Esplanade

The beloved Espy truly has it all — including one of the best kids’ margarita pizzas in town, featured on the Main Bar’s menu. Its relaxed, breezy beachside setting only adds to the charm, making it a standout among Melbourne’s family-friendly pubs.

While the little ones enjoy their delicious lunch, you can indulge in the impressive adult menu, which boasts classics like chicken and leek pot pie elevated with truffle and pea mash, succulent lobster and frites, and a rich, comforting eggplant parma. It’s a spot where every member of the family leaves satisfied.

11 The Esplanade, St Kilda 

The Auburn Hotel

The Auburn Hotel is a true sanctuary for families seeking a relaxed meal with their little ones. Beyond a thoughtfully crafted kids’ menu, Sundays transform into a joyful celebration known as Kid’s Sunday Funday. Each week, parents can savour a mouthwatering Sunday roast while the kids delight in exploring the free petting zoo, open from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. It’s a vibrant, fun-filled Sunday designed to keep the whole family smiling and entertained.

85 Auburn Road, Hawthorn East

Hobson’s Bay Hotel

Hobson’s Bay Hotel in Williamstown effortlessly blends seaside sophistication with genuine family warmth. Its airy, multi-level spaces, including a sun-drenched rooftop bar overlooking the bay, offer the perfect backdrop for relaxed gatherings. Little ones are spoiled for choice with a thoughtfully crafted kids’ menu featuring crispy fish and chips, juicy cheeseburgers, and tender grilled chicken salad. Pram-friendly access and high chairs make visits seamless, while parents savour quality food and drinks in an atmosphere that welcomes laughter and lingering conversations — a true gem for families craving effortless charm and comfort.

28 Ferguson Street, Williamstown

Middle Park Hotel

Middle Park Hotel quietly champions family dining with an easy charm that feels like home. Seasonal menus celebrate Victoria’s best produce, while the kids’ offerings — think crispy schnitzel, mini cheeseburgers and penne Napoli — bring smiles all round. Sundays feel like a warm embrace with a classic roast for all ages. With high chairs on hand and a relaxed gastropub vibe, it’s a spot where parents unwind as little ones find their own happy rhythm. Simple, sincere, and utterly inviting — family meals here are a gentle joy.

102 Canterbury Road, Middle Park

Moon Dog World

Step into Moon Dog World, where family fun and craft beer collide in one dazzling space. Cross the bridge over a shimmering lagoon to a magical waterfall — toss a coin, make a wish, and let the good times flow. With a huge playground safely tucked behind gates, kids can play freely while you relax under striped umbrellas or in sun loungers around the water feature.

From lively sports bars to secret tiki dens and pinball alleys, every corner sparks joy. Pram-friendly and allergy-aware, this is Melbourne’s ultimate family-friendly beer garden playground.

Sitchu Tip: For more family-friendly fun, don’t miss Moon Dog Wild West in Preston and Moon Dog Beach Club in Frankston.

32 Chifley Drive, Preston 

Stomping Ground Brewery

Stomping Ground Brewery is a family-friendly haven where great brews meet endless fun. With a huge wooden cubby house nestled beneath leafy canopies, kids can climb, colour, and play to their heart’s content while you savour from over 30 craft beers on tap. The spacious warehouse setting means plenty of room for everyone to relax and roam. The menu delights all ages, with crowd-pleasing pizzas and share plates that keep the whole family smiling. Pure joy, time and again.

100 Gipps Street, Collingwood

Terminus Hotel

The Terminus Hotel is a beloved Fitzroy North gem where families and friends gather to feast, sip, and unwind. This historic mid-1800s venue has evolved beautifully, boasting a sprawling beer garden, cosy craft bars, and vibrant on-street dining. Kids are spoiled with a hearty menu — think gooey cheese pizza, bangers and mash, and indulgent sundaes topped with chocolate, sprinkles, and gummy bears. High chairs are on hand, making it easy for little ones to join the fun. Just note, as a licensed venue, kids leave after dinner service — but the memories last much longer.

492 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North

The Moreland Hotel

The Moreland Hotel is a family favourite in Brunswick, bursting with kid-friendly charm at every turn. From a huge indoor playground to a dedicated toddlers’ zone, little ones can explore safely while parents sip on their favourite wine. Monthly themed parties bring face painting and karaoke to life, keeping the smiles coming. Quirky Grecian statues and vibrant murals set a playful scene, making this spot a joyful haven where families can truly unwind together.

Corner Sydney and Moreland Road, Brunswick

Station Hotel

The Station Hotel in Footscray delivers big on family-friendly fun with its French-inspired flair and relaxed beer garden setup. Kids can roam the play cubby while adults enjoy pub classics under shady sails and sunny patches. The faux grass courtyard is fenced for peace of mind, and there’s plenty of seating all around. With kids eating free every Tuesday and Wednesday, plus Sunday entertainment like face painting, live tunes, and a petting zoo, it’s a standout for crew catch-ups. Bonus: they’re dog-friendly too. It’s a local gem made for all ages.

59 Napier Street, Footscray

Now that you’re armed with inspiration for a fantastic meal at these family-friendly pubs in Melbourne, you should delve into the city’s secrets further. That’s where our guides to the best weekend activities and what’s on this month in Melbourne come into play. Happy exploring!

Writer

Kelsey Harrington

3 July 2025

Kelsey Harrington is a Melbourne-based writer with a sharp eye for the city's ever-evolving food, wine, arts, and culture scene. Her journey into the creative industry took the scenic route—what started as a passion for capturing Melbourne’s energy through a camera lens led her to Sitchu, where she worked her way up to Melbourne Editor. With over four years in the industry, she’s all about uncovering the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Off the clock? You’ll find her diving into a platter of fresh oysters and crudo, gallery-hopping, or sipping an extra dirty martini while plotting her next adventure.