Restaurant

The Charles Dickens Tavern

290 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Recommended by 35 people

Updated

Find The Charles Dickens Tavern

290 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

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HoursMonday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About The Charles Dickens Tavern

Descend the stairs beneath Collins Street to find an authentic basement boozer pouring proper UK and Irish taps. Dark wood accents frame big screens tuned to live EPL, rugby, and cricket clashes. Fans of hearty tavern cooking know to target the stout-infused beef pies and towering fish finger sandwiches. On weekends, the crowd gathers around the dedicated Sunday roast—pork belly capped with crackling, eggy Yorkshire puddings, and roasted spuds drenched in rich Guinness gravy.

  • British & Irish Taps: Basement tap lines pour imports like Hobgoblin Ruby, Old Speckled Hen, and Theakstons alongside freshly pulled Guinness.
  • Traditional Sunday Roast: Weekend crowds turn out for roast pork belly with crisp crackling, Yorkshire puddings, and house Guinness gravy.
  • Live Sports Viewing: Multiple screens show international matches, from Premier League fixtures to rugby and test cricket.
  • Hearty Pub Classics: Classic comfort fare ranges from hearty beef and Guinness pies to oversized fish finger sandwiches.

What's On at The Charles Dickens Tavern

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Choose The Charles Dickens Tavern

Discover what sets Melbourne's authentic subterranean British tavern apart on Collins Street.

  • Imported British Draught Ales & Bitters

    The tavern pours a dedicated draught rotation of imported UK ales and bitters, including favorites like Hobgoblin Ruby, Old Speckled Hen, and Theakstons alongside well-kept Irish taps.

    loads of well kept beers from England like Theakstons or Tetley's, as well as the the Irish favourites.

    Jim O'Neill
  • Authentic Sunday Roast Tradition

    Sundays feature traditional roast plates loaded with crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, tender meats like porchetta, and rich house gravy.

    All element were in spot, crispy crackling, soft and melted pork belly, tender and juicy meats. Best Yorkshire pudding as it’s not oily but eggy fragrant when it’s served.

    randomreviewreviewer
  • Nostalgic Taste of Home

    Stepping into the basement tavern evokes the comforting nostalgia of a classic neighbourhood tavern straight out of the UK.

    Absolutely incredible place, made me feel like I was back at home in England.

    Charlie Simpson
  • Cosy UK Tavern Character

    Classic tavern warmth, dark timber details, and welcoming hospitality create a cozy refuge for regulars and homesick travelers alike.

    If you're British this is a great spot, a home away from home.

    Scott Thornton
  • Match-Day International Sports Atmosphere

    Multiple screens throughout the tavern broadcast international rugby, EPL football, test cricket, and NHL matches to a spirited community of fans.

    Great atmosphere mainly because of all the British And Australian rugby supporters in the pub.

    dennis martin (Lazy Koala)
  • Spirited Gathering Spot for Fans

    A lively, friendly crowd packs the subterranean floor on game days, offering an electric shared experience over pints and pub grub.

    The drinks? Exceptional. The crowd? Rowdy in the best way. The food? Absolutely nailed it.

    Jason King

Other favorites

Traditional pub snacks, classic sides, desserts, and imported ales

  • Sticky Date Pudding

    But the sticky date pudding drenched in sticky toffee sauce (with ice-cream!) stole the show!!

    Claire Mulder
  • Hobgoblin Ruby

    A good selection of taps including Hobgoblin Ruby, will defo be back if I get the chance

    TcheQ _
  • Scotch Egg

    The Scotch Egg is ridiculously good and quite possibly the best in the World!!

    Jase the Ace
  • Chips with Curry Sauce

    Went for the sunday British roast and a chips with curry sauce. Food is always great.

    Sheridan B

Before you head over

Practical tips on reservations, bar ordering, and venue accessibility

  • Reserve ahead for Sunday roast and weekends

    Bookings are strongly recommended for weekend dinners and the popular Sunday roast, as tables fill up quickly during peak hours.

  • Check your table number before ordering at the bar

    Grab your table first and take note of the table number before placing your food and drinks order up at the bar.

  • Use the available lift for step-free access

    The tavern is situated down stairs beneath Collins Street, but a lift is available if you cannot navigate the stairs.

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