
The Red Lion Ballarat
A family-friendly pub offering familiar grub in a modern setting with a kids' play area and a sports bar.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Red Lion Ballarat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-friendly pub offering familiar grub in a modern setting with a kids' play area and a sports bar.
"Diners love the delicious, generous meals and exceptionally friendly service at this popular Ballarat spot."
Lunch for a Quieter Vibe
Opt for lunch to avoid the evening crowds for a more relaxed dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes
Highly praised dishes include the Chicken Kiev, 300-gram steak, and burgers.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Pub / Australian
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Family-Friendly Fun
An inviting playground area ensures kids are entertained, making it a perfect spot for family outings.

Generous Portions & Quality
Diners rave about delicious, large meals with perfectly cooked steaks and satisfying pub favorites.

Award-Winning Experience
Recognized by TripAdvisor, this venue offers a vibrant atmosphere with great food and friendly service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lunch for a Quieter Vibe
Opt for lunch to avoid the evening crowds for a more relaxed dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes
Highly praised dishes include the Chicken Kiev, 300-gram steak, and burgers.
Family Meal Deal
Kids' meals come with an activity pack, making it a hit with children and parents.
Expert Cocktails
Ask for Emma, the bartender, for exceptionally crafted cocktails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Lunch for a Quieter Vibe
Opt for lunch to avoid the evening crowds for a more relaxed dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes
Highly praised dishes include the Chicken Kiev, 300-gram steak, and burgers.
Family Meal Deal
Kids' meals come with an activity pack, making it a hit with children and parents.
Expert Cocktails
Ask for Emma, the bartender, for exceptionally crafted cocktails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Red Lion Ballarat is praised for its generous, delicious meals and exceptionally friendly staff, making it a top choice for families and couples alike. While most reviews highlight the quality of food and service, some mention that meals can be served at different times for a table, and the venue can get quite loud during peak hours.
"Great way to start the day!
After staying at the Sovereign Park Motor Inn overnight we walked next door for some breakfast before venturing off.
We ordered at the counter and had the
Corn Fritters plus the Eggs and Bacon with Mushrooms added.
The food was absolutely on point and delicious in every way!
Add to this, the staff were really friendly and gave us the space to take our time and to not be rushed, which is the perfect environment for a weekend breakfast!"
Sharyn
"Absolutely deserving of 5 stars!
We had a fantastic experience and service was exceptional. The food exceeded expectations—delicious and generous portions. We tried the beef burger, chicken parma, and an Angus steak, all cooked perfectly, especially the steak which was spot-on. Sitting by the fireplace made the atmosphere warm and inviting. A truly great spot to relax and enjoy a quality meal. Plenty of parking space on the side.
Highly recommended!"
Marios Theophanous
"Friendly staff, nice food and drinks, loved the wedges! The food is served really quickly and since the restaurant is open till late you can eat there at pretty much anytime."
Alex Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it features an inviting playground area and offers a kids' menu with activity packs, making it very family-friendly.
Reviewers often praise the Chicken Kiev, 300-gram steak, Chicken Parmesan, and burgers.
Yes, it's noted as a safe place for coeliac diners, with good gluten-free accommodation.
The cafe serves meals all day, while the restaurant offers lunch from 12 PM to 2 PM and dinner from 6 PM to 9 PM.
While booking ahead is recommended, staff will often make an effort to find a table even without a reservation.
For a quieter experience, it's recommended to visit for lunch, as evenings can be busy and loud.
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10 places to eat out with kids in Ballarat
There’s a very good reason why The Red Lion Hotel was the winner of TripAdvisor’s 2020 Traveller’s Choice Awards for Ballarat Restaurants. The Main Road hotel is home to a restaurant, cafe, bar and modern kids’ play area which will keep the littlies entertained while you catch up with friends and family. And as an added bonus, every kids’ meal comes with a free activity pack!
Gluten Free Restaurants, Shops & Takeaway in Ballarat, Victoria | Gluten Free Eating Directory
Cafe - 8am-10pm (meals served all day), Restaurant - 12noon-2pm (Lunch), 6pm-9pm (Dinner). The Red Lion is a vibrant venue offering restaurant and cafe style meals. There is a contemporary, comfortable atmosphere, and the pres...
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A warm and welcoming family-friendly pub with a fun playground and a considerable kids menu. I love that there is a healthier option of kids grilled chicken and salad. My kids love that there’s Milo on ice-cream for dessert!
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The Red Lion is renowned for its style, service and relaxed atmosphere. Seating up to 100 people, this award winning a-la-carte restaurant features local ...
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