Shakespeare Hotel

Can there be any better value Surry Hills hangout than the Shakey? As the hipster machine consumes the suburb around it, spreading tacos and sliders to every long-ailing pub, the Shakespeare is an old-school oasis. They may have increased the price of the 25 classic dishes by 25 per cent recently but who cares? With huge serves and everything at $12.50 from barramundi burgers, chicken parma to a T-bone or rump steak, no one else comes close for value. There’s a reason you’ll have to circle for a seat even on a Monday night. Timeless tiled walls and timbers haven’t changed much since 1879. A good selection of beers are on tap, nothing too fancy but nothing too boring either. Like the conversations in here the coldies flow close to freely as well, where you’ll get three ales in for less than your bargain dinner. Punters also regularly flow out onto the street in the evenings after work to keep the conversation light and lively. The wine list is simple and unassuming, served by great staff that never miss a trick or a smile with your change. Long live the Shakespeare: it’s an absolute classic pub.