Best Pubs Upper North Shore – A Smart‑Friend’s Guide to Great Beer, Food & Atmosphere

Introduction

Welcome to the Upper North Shore, a leafy stretch of Sydney that feels like a secret garden for anyone who loves a good pint and a great story. Imagine the region as a well‑aged barrel: the oak‑rich history, the subtle notes of community, and the occasional burst of citrusy excitement when a new craft brew rolls in. In this guide we’ll uncork the best pubs Upper North Shore has to offer, blend factual depth with vivid analogies, and give you actionable steps so you can plan the perfect pub‑hopping itinerary. Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking for a relaxed beer garden or a connoisseur hunting the next limited‑edition IPA, this article is your smart‑friend companion – intelligent, warm, and always ready with a recommendation.

Why the Upper North Shore Deserves a Spot on Your Pub‑Map

The Upper North Shore isn’t just a collection of leafy suburbs; it’s a living tapestry of colonial taverns, modern brew‑houses, and community‑driven spaces. The area’s pubs have evolved from 19th‑century inns that served travelers on horse‑drawn carriages to 21st‑century venues that host live music, craft‑beer tastings, and farm‑to‑table menus. This evolution mirrors the way a beer matures in the cellar – the longer it sits, the richer the character. Below we’ll explore how history, geography, and local culture combine to create a pub scene that’s both diverse and cohesive.

A Brief History of Pubs on the Upper North Shore

In the early 1800s, the first licensed premises sprang up along the Pacific Highway, serving as social hubs for timber workers, farmers, and early settlers. The Greengate Hotel, established in 1832, is one of the oldest surviving examples. Its stone façade still whispers stories of horse‑drawn wagons and telegrams. By the 1920s, the Great Northern Hotel emerged as a classic “beer garden” where families could picnic under towering eucalyptus trees – a tradition that continues today with modern happy‑hour specials.

Fast‑forward to the 2000s, and you’ll find a wave of micro‑breweries and boutique pubs, such as Flatrock Brewery in Naremburn, that bring an English‑style cask ale experience to the suburbs. This blend of heritage and innovation makes the Upper North Shore a micro‑cosm of Sydney’s broader pub renaissance.

Top 7 Pubs You Must Visit

1. Greengate Hotel – Killara

   Address: 659 Pacific Highway, Killara
   Happy Hour: 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Monday‑Friday)
   Why it stands out: Lush Italian‑Renaissance gardens, a selection of over 30 craft beers, and a menu that pairs local seafood with seasonal vegetables. The outdoor terrace feels like a vineyard patio, perfect for sipping a chilled lager while the sun filters through wisteria.

2. Great Northern Hotel – Chatswood

   Address: 522 Pacific Highway, Chatswood
   Happy Hour: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Mon‑Fri), 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm (Sat)
   Why it stands out: A massive, centuries‑old oak tree anchors the beer garden. The $5.50 happy‑hour pint is a crowd‑pleaser, and the venue frequently hosts local bands, turning a simple drink into a mini‑concert.

3. Pymble Hotel – Pymble

   Address: 1-3 Pymble Road, Pymble
   Happy Hour: Varies – check the website
   Why it stands out: Historic architecture meets modern sports bar vibes. The venue offers a “Bistro” menu with sustainably sourced produce, and the sports screens make it a go‑to spot for watching the footy while enjoying a pint of Australian lager.

4. Blues Point Hotel – McMahons Point

   Address: 206 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
   Happy Hour: Varies – often 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
   Why it stands out: Overlooks Sydney Harbour, giving you a skyline view that feels like you’re sipping a cocktail on a rooftop bar. The interior blends classic wood paneling with contemporary lighting, creating a cozy yet upscale atmosphere.

5. Flatrock Brewery – Naremburn

   Address: 290 Willoughby Road, Naremburn
   Happy Hour: None (focus is on quality over discounts)
   Why it stands out: An authentic English‑style pub that brews its own cask ales on‑site. The “Flat Rock Stout” is a dark, chocolate‑y masterpiece that pairs beautifully with the house‑made sausage rolls.

6. The Blues Point Bar & Grill – North Sydney

   Address: 50 Ridge Street, North Sydney
   Happy Hour: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Mon‑Fri)
   Why it stands out: A modern twist on a classic pub, featuring an open‑fire grill, craft cocktail menu, and a rotating selection of Australian craft beers. The bar’s “Beer Flight” lets you sample five local brews in one sitting.

7. The Greens – St Leonards

   Address: 85 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest
   Happy Hour: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Weekdays)
   Why it stands out: Family‑friendly with a large playground, yet the bar serves a curated list of boutique brews and a weekly “Brewmaster Talk” where local brewers discuss their process.

What Makes a Great Pub on the Upper North Shore?

Not all pubs are created equal. Below are the four pillars that separate a memorable pint‑stop from a forgettable one – think of them as the four ingredients in a perfect cocktail.

• Atmosphere – Does the space feel like a living room, a garden, or a concert hall? The best pubs balance comfort with a hint of excitement, much like a well‑balanced IPA.
• Drink Selection – A diverse beer list (including local craft, Australian lagers, and occasional imports) shows a commitment to the craft. Look for pubs that rotate taps weekly.
• Food Pairings – Great pubs understand that food is the perfect companion to beer. From classic fish‑and‑chips to gourmet sliders, the menu should complement the drink list.
• Community Events – Trivia nights, live music, and brew‑master talks turn a simple visit into an experience. These events are the “foam” on top of the beer – they add texture and flavor.

Happy‑Hour Guide – Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

Happy hour isn’t just about cheaper drinks; it’s about timing your visit to catch the venue at its liveliest. Below is a quick‑reference table for the pubs listed above.

Insider Tips – How to Make the Most of Your Pub Crawl

1. Start Early, Finish Late: Begin at a garden‑style venue like Great Northern for daylight ambience, then move to a rooftop view at Blues Point as the sun sets.
2. Sample a Flight: Many pubs (e.g., The Blues Point Bar & Grill) offer a flight of 5‑6 beers. This lets you compare styles without committing to a full pint.
3. Ask About Seasonal Brews: Breweries often rotate taps based on the season. The Greengate Hotel, for instance, introduces a summer wheat ale in December.
4. Pair Food Strategically: Light lagers go well with salads and seafood, while darker stouts pair beautifully with grilled meats or chocolate desserts.
5. Use the Apps: Download the “Strategies Beer” app (or visit Home) to see real‑time tap lists and upcoming events.
6. Stay Hydrated: Alternate each beer with a glass of water – it keeps your palate fresh and helps you enjoy more flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Which pub has the best beer garden?
  A: The Great Northern Hotel’s expansive garden under a mature oak tree is often voted the top spot for outdoor drinking.
• Q: Are there any pubs that brew their own beer?
  A: Yes – Flatrock Brewery brews on‑site and offers a rotating selection of cask ales.
• Q: What’s the most affordable happy‑hour deal?
  A: The Greengate Hotel’s half‑price pints from 3‑6 pm are a great value.
• Q: Can I host a private function?
  A: Many venues, such as the Pymble Hotel and Blues Point Hotel, have private rooms and event packages. Contact them directly or use the Contact page for inquiries.
• Q: How do I sell my own beer online?
  A: Check out the beer distribution marketplace at Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer for a seamless selling experience.

Actionable Steps – Your Personal Pub‑Hopping Blueprint

1. Pick Your Targets: Choose three pubs from the list above based on the atmosphere you crave (garden, waterfront, historic).
2. Check the Calendar: Visit each pub’s website or the Home page for upcoming events and happy‑hour times.
3. Plan Your Route: Use a map app to plot a logical path – e.g., start at Great Northern (Chatswood), head south to Greengate (Killara), then finish at Blues Point (North Sydney).
4. Reserve If Needed: For larger groups or private rooms, book ahead via the Contact page.
5. Bring a Notebook: Jot down tasting notes – color, aroma, mouthfeel – to remember which brew you loved most.
6. Share Your Experience: Post a review on Google or Instagram, tagging the pub and using the hashtag #UpperNorthShorePubs. This helps the community and boosts the pub’s visibility.

Conclusion – Raise Your Glass to Exploration

The Upper North Shore isn’t just a place to drink; it’s a narrative of community, craftsmanship, and conviviality. From the historic charm of the Greengate Hotel to the boutique allure of Flatrock Brewery, each pub offers a distinct chapter in the region’s ever‑growing story. By following the tips, routes, and FAQs in this guide, you’ll not only enjoy some of the best pubs Upper North Shore has to offer, but you’ll also become part of the living history that makes each pint taste a little richer.

So, pull up a stool, order a glass of something new, and let the conversation flow – because the best stories, like the best beers, are meant to be shared.

Additional Resources

Explore more about brewing your own creations or customizing a beer for your next event:

• Make Your Own Beer
• Custom Beer
• Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer