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Restaurant

The Gem Bar and Dining

289 Wellington St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia

Recommended by 47 people

Updated

Find The Gem Bar and Dining

289 Wellington St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia

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+61 3 9419 5170
HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About The Gem Bar and Dining

This classic Collingwood corner pub delivers unpretentious honky-tonk energy, cold craft beers, and live music that rattles the floorboards. Deceptively modest out front, the room opens into a labyrinth of cozy nooks, resident dogs hunting for head scratches, and a band room running afternoon gigs. Regulars crowd the counter for well-poured pints and hearty feeds without the customary gastro-pub markup. The kitchen dishes out hefty chicken burgers, crisp chips, and low-and-slow barbecue alongside steaks served straight off the grill with peppercorn sauce.

  • Live Local Gigs: Hosts local rock, country, and post-punk acts with intimate floor gigs and free afternoon sets.
  • Solid Craft Taps: Pours an evolving lineup of craft beers alongside straightforward cocktails in an unpretentious setting.
  • Generous Pub Feeds: Serves slow-smoked barbecue, thick cheeseburgers, and steaks with peppercorn sauce without gastropub markups.
  • Laid-Back Atmosphere: Down-to-earth bartenders and a dog-welcoming front bar give the multi-room venue a relaxed neighborhood feel.
RestaurantPub

What's On at The Gem Bar and Dining

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

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Choose The Gem Bar and Dining

What makes The Gem Bar and Dining an iconic Collingwood local

  • Live Bands and Afternoon Sessions

    Patrons enjoy high-energy gigs and daytime sets spanning country, rock, and post-punk right in the bar room.

    One of the most underrated venues in the city, which has predominantly free live shows in the afternoon of country and postpunk music.

    Tim Stew

  • Honky-Tonk Pub Energy

    The venue pairs eclectic vintage styling with a classic, vibrant inner-north honky-tonk atmosphere.

    Such a cool little bar, one of my favourites. Like Melbourne's own little honky tonk.

    Ellen Hookey

  • Hearty, High-Value Pub Dining

    Diners consistently highlight exceptional diner-style burgers and pub staples that represent serious value compared to neighboring spots.

    The cost of the burgers when compared to other options in the area was great value for money.

    Paul no

  • Accessible Dinner Pricing

    An honest kitchen offering generous portions and affordable mains without gastro-pub price inflation.

    So you really get a good deal, especially since you can't really score a full dinner at this price anywhere else.

    C S

  • Genuinely Dog-Friendly Gathering Spot

    The front outdoor area and bar welcomingly accommodate dogs, complete with treats and friendly attention from staff.

    Staff always so kind and welcoming :-) Gave Lily some chicken on a busy night.

    Lora Smith

  • Casual Local Knock-Off Drinks

    Down-to-earth bar staff and outdoor sidewalk seating create an easygoing environment for neighborhood catch-ups.

    It was a nice venue to catch up with some friends and enjoy the sunshine.

    Clare D

Hearty, unpretentious pub meals that deliver exceptional value and satisfaction

  • Cheese Burger

    my go to is the Cheese Burger

    Greg Tippett

  • Steak

    IT WAS THE BEST, IT WAS COOKED LIKE TOP TIER BETTER THAN IV HAD IN A A WHILE.. peppercorn sc slaw and perfect chips

    Shuva Bhakta

  • Chicken Burger

    the chicken burger came close. It was extremely rich. That said, it was also a bargain at 15 bucks!

    C S

  • Bacon Burger

    my friend wolfed down his bacon burger quick smart

    David Grainger

Frequently Asked Questions

Does The Gem host live music?

Yes, The Gem features regular live gigs, hosting local, interstate, and international bands across country, rock, and post-punk styles, often with free afternoon sessions and an intimate floor show setup.

Can I bring a dog to The Gem?

Yes, you can bring your dog along. Patrons regularly visit with bar dogs, and the staff are welcoming to pets.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Yes, outdoor seating is available out the front of the venue, making it a great spot for sunny afternoon drinks and snacks.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options on the menu?

Yes, plant-based diners can order vegetarian and vegan options, including a popular tofu burger.

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