Cragieburn South’s pubs scene is affordable, diverse, developing — and the pubs reflect it. Whether you want a quiet midweek drink or a full Friday night, there are options that don’t require leaving the suburb.
Standard prices: pint $10-12, cocktail $15-20. Happy hour (usually 5-7pm) knocks $3-5 off at most places.
Our Top Picks
1. Stella’s — 73 Nicholson Terrace
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-12am Vibe: Rooftop terrace, sunset views Drinks: $10-12
The pub the suburb rallies around. Stella’s gets the fundamentals right — good drinks, comfortable room, staff who know the menu. The tap list rotates monthly, which keeps regulars from getting bored. The upstairs level is the best spot — less crowded, better acoustics.
Drink this: The rotating craft tap ($10-12). When to go: Friday after 7pm for live music.
2. Theo Local — 252 Nicholson Terrace
Hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-1am Vibe: Wine-focused, small plates
The quiet achiever. Theo Local doesn’t have a PR budget or an Instagram strategy — it has regulars who come three times a week. The front bar is the draw. The cheese board pairs perfectly with their wine by the glass.
Best night: Friday DJs from 9pm.
3. Zara Larder — 99 Clarendon Grove
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-11pm Vibe: Small, intimate, conversation-volume Drinks: $10-12
Opened in 2025 and immediately became a regular spot for the under-35 crowd. The tap list leans towards Victorian craft breweries. The space is tighter than Stella’s — maybe 50 people before it feels packed — but that’s part of the appeal.
What makes it work is the attention to detail. The glassware is considered, the ice is proper, and the bartenders actually taste what they make before serving. The tap list rotates every two weeks with a Victorian-only policy. If you hit capacity, put your name down and walk around the block — turnover is quick.
Drink this: Their signature sour ($10-12). Pro tip: The back corner booth is the best seat.
4. Old Yard — 62 Victoria Street
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Neighbourhood corner pub, proper and unpretentious Drinks: $10-12
The one for when you want food with your drinks. The kitchen runs until 9:30pm and the pizza are genuinely good, not bar-food-as-afterthought. The wings have a proper chilli kick.
The drinks list complements the food — an approachable wine list that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s the kind of place where you come for one beer and stay for dinner because you smell the kitchen.
Best combo: The cheese board with a glass of the house red, $35 total. When to come: Sunday afternoon — relaxed, the kitchen is unhurried, and there’s live music.
5. Canvas — 149 Nicholson Terrace
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Rooftop terrace with city views Drinks: $10-12
The vibe pick. Not the best drinks on this list, but the laneway entrance creates an atmosphere the others can’t match. It’s the place to bring someone you’re trying to impress, or to photograph, or both.
The drinks list is designed around the aesthetic — photogenic serves that actually taste good. Food is limited to empanadas and dip plates but you’re not here for the food.
Best for: Small group celebrations — book the corner section.
Comparison
| Venue | Best For | Drink Price | Kitchen | Live Music |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stella’s | Overall best | $10-12 | Yes | No |
| Theo Local | Quiet drink | $10-12 | Yes | No |
| Zara Larder | New & trendy | $10-12 | Snacks only | No |
| Old Yard | Food + drinks | $10-12 | Full menu | Fri |
| Canvas | Atmosphere | $10-12 | Limited | No |
Practical Info
Happy hour: Most places run 5-7pm weekdays. Stella’s does $8 house lagers and $15 cocktails during happy hour.
Getting there: Public transport options in Cragieburn South. Don’t drive on Friday/Saturday nights — parking is scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: None of these are bottle-service-and-bouncers. Clean casual everywhere. Canvas skews slightly smarter but won’t turn away anyone in jeans.
Age check: All venues are 18+. Bring ID if you look under 25 — they will ask.
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD Pubs
- Cragieburn South Restaurants — eat before or after
- Cragieburn South Things to Do
- All Cragieburn South Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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