Look it's a mad pub; great atmosphere, good sound systems, varied music,with a number of different events happening at once, happening in succession with success. Skip the food eat elsewhere first but if you must eat it's he standard pub grub. Service at the bar is a little to be desired and don't expect much but beer. Overall average to above average with he service and food letting the place down.

Fantastic venue, huge beer garden , wonderful food . Friendly staff and punters .
Only downside Security Mum and her magic torch standing on the stage and scolding the kids for dancing too rough while the main band played.
Otherwise a fabulous night.

Was a great night.
Loved the music by Electric Blue
The lighting on the stage was not great very dark and red. Would have been nice to get a better look at the band
Food was good and service too

The Retreat has good indoor and outdoor seating. Good place to meet up with mates and get a bite/drink. Freindly staff. Popular quiz night on Monday (I think). And sometimes they have food specials (grilled outside).

We went there on Saturday, we ordered burgers and beer and it was amazing. And they had different species including indoor and outdoor.

We went there on Saturday, we ordered burgers and beer and it was amazing. And they had different species including indoor and outdoor.

Stopped in for a quick beer sat in the front bar ,band playing on the back room ,wasn't there long enough to get the vibe ,cool looking venue,good drink selection ??'?

Shockingly reliable. If you are looking for a pub in Brunswick then go to the retreat but you probably know that already. The crowd is weak on weekends but it's always there. Great to drop in for a drink or catch up with friends

Awesome venue down Sydney road, friendly staff, delicious food, Awesome beer garden and a cool band room

Always a great night at the Retreat Hotel! Cheap beers and a cozy venue, what more could you ask for? The beer garden has plenty of seats, with shade and heaters, it's perfect for any weather. They also have bathrooms inside and out the back which is super convenient. Whether you're looking for a laid back drink with mates or wanting to see a gig, the Retreat has you covered.

Awesome, old inner city pub. I remember this pub from over 30 years ago when I lived in the area. It has not lost any of its old charm, if anything, had become a quirky inner city secret.
The walls are lined with many different stories from years gone by, everywhere you look is a differing landscape.
The tap beers have become more geared toward your craft style beers there is however a fairly extensive selection. The meals are also quite modern and seem to cater to all tastes.
I would highly recommend anyone passing through the area to stop in, have a drink and take a step back in time.

WHAT THE MEL!?

Big fan of the retreat, unfortunately my Sunday drinks were tainted by a condescending and aggressive bar tender by the name of Mel - didn't know where anything was (said he didn't work here?)

Buying a simple beer turned into an unpleasant back and forth.

The wedges were delicious though-empty bowl to prove it.

Awesome place, one of the best pubs I've been to. Brilliant live music, great beer garden, super nice people and a great little pool table as well. Such a great environment and hoping to go again soon!

The mushroom burger was ok, but the Brussel sprouts weee absolutely next level. Definitely order those.

This place has probably the most "Brunswick" vibe you can imagine, in a lovely way.

I attended Open Mic Night. Great welcoming and comfortable venue. Staff offer awesome, accommodating, professional customer service with a smile and chat. I encourage anyone and everyone to attend once; in support of the venue, the various men and women of different musical genres, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, to enforce this terrific community event and opportunity. Guaranteed to enjoy the experience and possibly hear something for the first time. Seating areas indoors and a great beer garden outdoors, includes outdoor seating area on the footpath/ street at the main entrance. Good various food and drinks menu at reasonable prices. Pool table is on location. Limited off street parking; best use public transport; tram or hired vehicle services. Close to various retailers and groceries stores, including late night convenience stores and various bank ATMs.

Loved the upstairs function area. The space allowed for different groups to get together a room for music and dancing, a groovy pool table. The bar is also in a seperate room which makes getting drinks easy away from the ongoing party

Quiz night is great, good prices, decent food. Got drunk left my bag there and they kept it till morning. Would recommend

My friend organised her birthday party here at the Amelia Shaw Bar and it was awesome! Great service and Kerry was very helpful. An absolute legend.

All in the name of the place - every time I come to the retreat I wonder how I got here. The lovely beer garden out back and booths near the bars give life to this place, which is good because I die inside whenever I come here. I love to hate this place but it will always manage to invite my soul.

Great place, top notch beer garden but you have to know your time slots.

Quiet beers and a catch up: during the day.
At night it turns into a social club in the best way.

Great vibe, friendly staff, had a great time playing pool with live music in the background. Sadly; chips too crunchy. :(

Love the gigs they had there. Astrovillain was the best this Wednesday night. I hope we get to see more of them at the Retreat.

Didn't have dinner there, but the menu looked really exciting to me. Will try some sometime.