Hail to the chief

Not everyone's idea of a great pub is the same. That much is evident comparing the Herald Sun's recent list of Melbourne's Top 25 Pubs with the corresponding list from a popular cheeky cheapskate's web-site. The Happiest Hour's (deservedly) #1 pub doesn't even feature on the paper's list. However the two lists agree on one thing; that the Maori Chief is a South Melbourne treasure.

There's no point attempting to deny that the majority of Melbourne's best pubs are North of the Yarra, however there are also honourable mentions on one list or other for the nearby Palace, Wayside Inn, Railway Club Hotel and Middle Park Hotel. However it is the Kiwi Mecca at the intersection of York and Moray Streets that garners respect from both perspectives.

This is a proper honest pub, with unexpected beers, lots of bare wood, live music and a pool table ... right in front of the bar. It's the antithesis of the shiny identikit pubs of Clarendon Street, like a Fitzroy pub that got lost on its way home one night. It has plenty of cosy tables for dining too, just don't come for a romantic meal when the All Blacks are playing. And to literally top it off, it even has a rooftop looking out toward the city.

Beers on tap: Carlton, Mountain Goat Summer Ale, Steam Ale & Hightail, Monteith Pale Ale & Golden Lager, and Tui's IPA
Parma: $21-23 (five varieties), $15 on Wednesdays
Gastro: No, but good quality pub grub, and proud of it
Tradie vs Yuppy: Something for everyone
Nearest Tram: York St/Kings Way (55)