Retreat Hotel - Abbotsford

We have been here several times over the last few years. Last night we were with a group of 10. The drink prices are good and the food prices are also within the range expected of the food that was served. The last time we were here the 'corned beef' was dry and inedible but last night several people ordered this and commented on how good it was. The parmagiana was ordered by some of the group who were very happy with the meal including the crispy chips and salad. I had a vegetarian parcel, but this was mostly puff pastry with very little vegetables (however the flavour of what was in the pastry was really good) - had there been more vegetables it would have been a great choice but there was far too much pastry. Regardless of the food we were there with a big group of friends and we stayed longer than the staff had expected and they continued to offer their service even though at the end of the evening our group was the only group people there. We will be back because the service could not be faulted. The food, however, is a bit of 'hit land miss', guess you just have to take a chance on it, but it is certainly worth taking a chance.

It's walking in to an early to mid 1900's pub. A photo of the Sullivans hangs on the wall to remind us that the filming of the pub scenes was done here. The timber semi circular bar with its brass railing held with brass elephant heads grabs your eye on entering. Wind around the bar to an intimate room and then beyond that to the original dining room with its open fires and leadlight windows. The owners have kept memorabilia from bygone eras which all adds to the ambience. The food is well presented and generous portions. I have been back many times and each time have felt very welcome by the staff. An experience to treasure.

Standard Pub menu well done. Comfortable surroundings in old world atmosphere which seems to stopped in th 30'3s which is part of the charm.

My partner and I dropped into the Retreat for early dinner last month and we were really disappointed. Having been there many times in the past (and enjoyed it) we were stunned to find that the chef(? sorry part time cook) couldn't be bothered making something vegan for my partner. She has always been accommodated in the past there even if its just rice and a vegie stir fry. Nup not this time. We offered several alternatives but each time it was relayed to the kitchen it was apparently too hard. Nothing against the bar staff there and the atmosphere is usually pretty good but we aint going back and will be telling as many as possible not to bother either... sullivans or not!.

Not much of a choice, I settled for some hashed salty beef on what looked and tasted instant potato. Under the old management one could order lamb shanks, Fish and chips, Meat pies cooked in pie containers. This has the feeling of out of the can, out of the packet. Gordon Ramsey would not accept this standard. Not an enjoyable experience .