Shamrock Hotel

My eye fillet was the standout. After seven years in Echuca, it’s the best steak I’ve had at a restaurant here, and it was cooked perfectly. The churros were very good too, and we all had a great meal for a decent price. We were there for my daughter’s birthday, two adults and three kids. It’s an older pub that’s been nicely modernised, especially the cool sports bar. The outdoor area looked good too, but it was cold, so we sat inside. Drinks were standard pub options and not too expensive, despite what I’d seen in other reviews. Two pints and three soft drinks cost $32, which seemed fine. My wife and daughter shared the Thai beef salad with garlic bread on the side, and both were very good. The boys had kids meals with decent portions and a good standard. We didn’t try the parmas.

The cutlets were the worst part of our visit for my brother-in-law’s 70th birthday. They were badly crumbed, cutlets served blue and raw under the cooked breadcrumbs. When we asked about it, we were told that’s how cutlets are served. One staff member even said we shouldn’t order them because they’re always raw. There was no offer of another meal, dessert or a refund, just the comment, “do not order that again.” Ordering drinks felt awkward too, as if we were intruding by asking about the beer types and wine list. Later, when we asked for coffee, a staff member said to go across the road because their coffee-making skills were average and a cup wasn’t worth ordering. The staff came across as arrogant, with no warmth or customer service. There are plenty of other lovely places to eat in Echuca, so think twice. I didn’t take photos, but believe me, the food was revolting.

We’d waited 50 minutes for our food when we went to ask how much longer it would be. The same staff member turned around and, in a rude tone, said, “mate your food is coming,” with no effort at appropriate customer service. I understand it can be stressful with lots of customers, but that behaviour was not okay. Most of the staff were great. I also noticed who I assume was a manager being extremely rude to her staff.

We ate here twice this weekend, each time with a table of 10. The staff were friendly and the service was great, and there was plenty of delicious food. I liked the 101 parmagiana menu, though I wouldn’t choose the dessert parma’s. I’d happily eat here again.