The Grand is a reminder of the hey-day of Portarlington one hundred years ago when paddlesteamer fun boats carrying as many as 2000 patrons would ply the Bay on the weekends to places like Sorrento and Portarlington. We shared a fishermans basket and were pleased by the amount and the care in cooking. A highlight of the building is the window that has been installed to let you look down to the huge cellar where all the food and booze for those pleasure-boat patrons a hundred years ago was stored.

Handy tips

How to grab a beer at your local pub.

Beer. Aaah, that fantastic fluid that’s bonded generations of Australian drinkers. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne, Sydney or Perth, you might be amazed at how the bartender is able to understand the ridiculous orders being thrown at him/her. What on earth is a schooner? Did that person just order a pony? Read on to find out more.

Most Melbournians buy beer off tap by the pot (285ml), much to the confusion of Sydneysiders who are accustomed to the schooner (425ml) or the middy (285ml). We’re a capable bunch compared to older generations, who often swill by the glass (200ml), small (175ml) or pony (140ml). If you're in a group larger than 2 or 3, buying a jug, which holds a bit more than 4 pots, is a more economical choice of purchase.

The can or the short stumpy bottle known as the stubbie is the next best thing. Groups of friends usually take turns to buy a 'round' each. When it's your turn to buy a round, it's also referred to as your 'shout'. Laws around responsible service of alcohol mean that you won’t be able to order a beer if you’re drunk.

Looking for a nice pub near you now? Try searching for pubs nearby in our online directory and get locations and directions for each listing.