Forrester's

Forrester’s is a long-running Surry Hills pub built around eating, drinking and bringing people together. The venue describes itself as a neighbourhood fixture with more than a century of history, and its current owners, Applejack, have reshaped it into four distinct spaces under one roof. It remains recognisably a local pub, but there is more variety here than a single bar-and-dining room setup.

The Public Bar is the most traditional option, with live sport, an eclectic tap-beer selection and Australian wines chosen by the bar team. The Art Room offers a cosier setting with work by local artists, while Phylli’s is brighter and more playful, with greenery and a relaxed feel. Upstairs is used for events and Wednesday trivia nights. Food from Phylli’s Kitchen is available across the rooms, so a meal can be paired with the energy of the sports bar, a garden-like setting or the more intimate Art Room.

The menu focuses on Australian pub food with a seasonal approach and a choice of shared plates and individual meals. The Winter Yorkie is listed as a Forrester’s signature, built around roast turkey with gravy, cranberry sauce, mashed potato, peas and glazed carrots. Other substantial options include steaks, burgers, fish and chips, schnitzel and chicken parmigiana, alongside salads, grazing plates and plant-based choices. The kitchen notes that it caters for most dietary requirements, although it cannot guarantee an allergen-free meal. Tap beers include familiar Australian brews and independent craft options, while the wine list is entirely Australian and the cocktail menu covers spritzes, margaritas, negronis, espresso martinis and sours.

There is plenty here for groups, from shared food and the dedicated event space to the venue’s bottomless lunch and banquet offerings, which require advance booking. Trivia makes Upstairs a midweek option, and live music from local artists and bands is promoted on the site for Friday and Saturday, with the latest listing also including Sunday. Dog owners are specifically welcomed, with a Tuesday offer of free paw-kies. With daily service from late morning and later trading on Thursday through Saturday, Forrester’s suits a casual catch-up, a meal around live sport, a group celebration or an easy drink in one of Surry Hills’ established pub spaces.