This big old pub has some charm. The fact it hasn't been 'Sydney-fied' by expanses of glass, marble, flat screen tv's makes it so, like a comfortable pair of Dunlop volleys that you've owned since the late 90's. It's just a good, reliable fit.
The Annandale churns out the music like there is no tomorrow, and this is something that sets it apart. It supports up and coming Australian music and always has a seductive upcoming shows list. You'll find some great new talent here, and it is somewhat standing on its own in this respect after the closure of
The Hopetoun, a previous Sydney live music institute, in 2009. Most recently I enjoyed a charity gig set up by The Annandale's sweetheart Josh Pyke. The decent sound system, long bar for easy access and prompt service and the fact that they don't pack you in like sardines is hard to pass up.
I like a good pun just like the next person, especially when it feeds you. So for an honest and cheap feed check out their restaurant
Wok 'N Roll, and get gigantic plates of noodles for around $10 that will certainly satisfy the rumble (hot tip: Malaysian Satay). On the weekend get your
Pub Cha on while chilling out in their beer garden.
It's the pub that does it au natural! We hope it stays away from Botox cause this place is great like it is, and its wrinkles around the edges add to its charm.
17 Parramatta Road,
Annandale
(just down from
Maccas Stanmore)
