Middle Park Hotel

The main Dining Room was at capacity for our Rugby lunch with 80 people, yet it didn’t feel crowded at all. The management and staff handled a busy room with aplomb, and nothing was too much trouble. The food was delicious. Thanks so much, we’ll be singing your praises to all our associates.

For solo business travel, this is a strong option in its price range. The rooms are small but very clean, with a comfortable bed, and it’s quiet despite the pub and restaurant downstairs. There are convenient places to eat nearby, and the 96 tram stops right across the road. The pub and restaurant downstairs have an awesome food selection. There’s no lift, and the stairs are narrow original features that are well maintained, so it isn’t suitable for kids or prams. My five stars are for what you get at this price, not because it’s a five-star hotel.

The Sunday pork roast was amazing, with generous portions and spot-on crackling. I just wish the pumpkin and greens were a bit more plentiful, as the roast veg portion looked small on everyone’s plate. Drinks were standard prices, though I’d like another mid-strength tap option, perhaps Great Northern Super Crisp. The current Stone & Wood Super Crisp offering isn’t good as a mid-strength choice. Heineken Zero stubbies actually taste like beer, but $10 each is steep. I visited The Middle Park Hotel on Sunday to watch the NFL Playoff games, and was impressed by the changes since my last visit. The place looked beautiful and luxurious, and the beer garden had good furniture and plenty of umbrellas. There were lots of screens with sound for watching sports. Staff were extremely accommodating, especially the dark-haired manager with glasses, who sorted everything out. Tom was also very friendly and hospitable, made me feel at home and was great to chat with. I’d definitely recommend a Sunday afternoon here and will be back.

The evening food was good, and there’s a large outdoor area for drinks or a meal. We didn’t get breakfast at the hotel, but there are two good breakfast spots just a few steps away. Our room was comfortable and the shower was good. It was nice having a Nespresso machine, though we had to ask for refills. There’s no lift, and the stairs are quite steep, especially to the second floor.