The Carlisle Castle Hotel

The Carlisle Castle is a local’s paradise. Propping up the bar is an odd assortment of hipsters and tradies who are all there for the same reason: an ice-cold beer and an excellent feed. For many in Newtown the Carlisle is a second home - though sadly you can no longer bring your dog along with you. It's a warm, friendly watering hole with one of the best bistros around the 'hood. Pub classics are all present and correct – the steak sambo and the fish burger are excellent – plus there are always seasonal specials like pork belly and braised shanks for winter and a range of salads for the warmer months. The bistro prices are a little higher than average but so is the quality and the servings and we say fair’s fair. It is a family-friendly pub, and the dining area is chock-a-block between 6 and 7.30pm most nights, but once the little ones are off to bed the crowd thins to a comfortable hum and you can relax over Mount Kosciuszko pale ale or a tried and true schooner of Reschs.