Coopers Hotel

Set in the middle of the hustle and bustle of King Street, the Cooper’s Hotel is a textbook example of a local pub. You enter through the main bar, a large, slightly over-renovated space with tiled walls and blonde wood fixtures that can feel a little gloomy if the sun isn’t going full tilt. Towards the back are the pokies, the TAB room and a small smoking courtyard, and TV screens showing sports are scattered throughout. The second floor contains the bistro and an open-roofed beer garden – bitterly fought-for real estate when the temperature rises. To slake your thirst you can choose from a range of draught beers that feature the usual suspects plus a few surprise additions like Fat Yak and AB Dark Lager. If you’re feeling homesick, visit on Sunday to enjoy a traditional roast lunch or dinner. Like any good local pub, the week is divided into a series of happy hours, meat raffles, tipping comps and televised sports, with Tuesday dedicated to trivia. There are no bells and whistles, no DJs or bands on offer, but that’s what makes the Cooper’s Hotel what it is – a pleasant place for a quiet drink and a catch up.