Every Bite Tells a Story
Every bite tells a story | Dine, unwind and connect at Cobram Hotel
Dive into the heart of the Goulburn Valley’s culinary scene with Jan and Paul Phillips. Every Friday, the pair will serve our readers with their knowledge of our communities’ restaurants, cafés and pubs — one plate at a time.
Known affectionately as the “Top Pub”, the Cobram Hotel has earned its reputation as a central hub for friends, families and visitors from far and wide.
Its location was perfect for us to meet family and friends travelling from places like Deniliquin, Blighty and Shepparton, making it ideal.
Offering an array of facilities and activities, the Cobram Hotel stands as a testament to quality hospitality, pride and community connection.
Proprietor Adam Rudd shared insights into the Cobram Hotel’s rich history.
Originally built in 1892, the hotel has withstood the test of time, including surviving a number of fires.
Over the years, it became fondly remembered for its Chinese restaurant and “The Zoo” nightclub.
Since Adam’s family purchased the leasehold from the Buzzo family (GV Hotel) in 2007, the hotel has undergone extensive renovations, particularly in 2012, transforming it into the vibrant venue it is today.
Starting with a modest staff of six, the business has grown exponentially, now employing more than 50 people.
In addition to the hotel, the family also operates the Grain Store Café and Restaurant, catering to Cobram’s strong Italian influences.
The Piazza area, now subleased, has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Adam is optimistic about the upcoming summer season, highlighting plans for pop-up old-style outdoor movies to take full advantage of Cobram’s fabulous weather.
Dining at the Cobram Hotel is an experience in itself. On our recent visit, eight guests enjoyed eight different meals, each prepared to perfection.
Dishes ranged from the catch of the day, salmon fillet to mushroom risotto, chicken parmigiana, seafood linguini, eye fillet, Thai green chicken curry, flathead tails and a classic seafood basket.
Impressively, all meals were served simultaneously, showcasing the kitchen’s efficiency.
Adam proudly emphasises the hotel offers restaurant-quality food at pub prices, a key factor in its #1 ranking on TripAdvisor
The Cobram Hotel provides entertainment options to suit a variety of tastes.
The Piano Bar, open every Friday night, infuses the local nightlife with energy, offering a safe and enjoyable space for music and dancing.
By hosting such events, the hotel reduces the need for residents to travel to larger cities, keeping money within the community.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Sports Bar, equipped with big screens and comfortable seating, perfect for catching games while savouring good food and drinks.
The hotel also offers responsible gaming options, with staff trained to promote a balanced and harm-free environment for patrons.
More than just a business, the Cobram Hotel is deeply embedded in the community.
By creating jobs, hosting events, and supporting local sporting clubs and non-profit organisations, the hotel fosters a sense of belonging and engagement.
Events such as trivia nights and live performances provide opportunities for connection, while also contributing to the economy by supporting nearby suppliers and entertainers.
The heart of the Cobram Hotel is its dedicated staff.
From skilled bartenders to attentive servers and approachable management, every team member is committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Their friendly, professional service ensures that first-time visitors quickly become loyal patrons.
In today’s fast-paced world, the Cobram Hotel offers a much-needed space to relax and unwind.
Whether it’s the excitement of a sports game, the joy of dancing, or the comfort of a delicious meal shared with loved ones, the hotel provides moments of respite that enhance wellbeing.
With its diverse facilities, exceptional food, and strong community focus, the Cobram Hotel is more than a pub; it’s a cornerstone of connection, joy and shared experiences.
Highly recommended for anyone looking to eat, drink, and celebrate in a warm and welcoming environment.
Food pricing for the Cobram Hotel, rated by Jan and Paul: $$
(Expensive $$$, moderate $$, good value $).