Nestled in the vibrant heart of St Kilda East at 123 Carlisle Street, Balaclava Hotel stands as one of Melbourne's most beloved gaming and entertainment venues. This historic establishment has been serving locals and visitors since 1869, offering an exceptional combination of pokies gaming, quality dining, craft beverages, and live sports entertainment. For those seeking an authentic Australian pub experience with top-tier gaming facilities, Balaclava Hotel delivers an atmosphere that perfectly balances traditional charm with contemporary amenities.
The venue has undergone significant renovations in recent years, transforming into a fresh, modern space while preserving its rich historical character. Today, patrons can enjoy gaming machines in a dedicated area, separated from the main bar to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all visitors. Whether you're a seasoned pokies player or simply looking for quality entertainment, Balaclava Hotel provides an inviting environment that keeps guests returning week after week.
The gaming facilities at Balaclava Hotel represent a significant draw for entertainment enthusiasts throughout the St Kilda East area. The venue features a dedicated gaming room that houses an impressive selection of electronic gaming machines, commonly known as pokies in Australian vernacular. This separate gaming area ensures that sounds and activity from the machines don't intrude on the dining and drinking spaces, creating an optimal experience for all patrons regardless of their preferences.
According to reviews from TripAdvisor, the venue is described as "a bit of a pokie place with sport on TV" where "the gaming area is behind a door and the sounds do not intrude." This thoughtful design allows gaming enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite machines while other guests can relax in the bistro or bar without disruption. The gaming room maintains comfortable temperature control, adequate lighting, and convenient access to bar services, ensuring players can enjoy extended sessions in comfort.
Victorian gaming regulations require that all poker machines maintain a minimum return-to-player (RTP) rate of 87 percent annually, after deducting special jackpots. This regulation ensures fair play and responsible gaming standards across all venues in Melbourne. Balaclava Hotel adheres strictly to these requirements, providing players with machines that meet or exceed these standards.
Players at Balaclava Hotel appreciate the venue's commitment to responsible gambling practices. The hotel participates in Victoria's YourPlay pre-commitment scheme, a free and voluntary program that allows players to set limits on their gaming expenditure and time spent playing. All staff members are trained in Responsible Service of Gaming (RSG), as required by Victorian law, ensuring that patrons receive appropriate support and intervention when necessary.
|
Gaming Feature |
Details |
|
Gaming Room Location |
Separate enclosed area with soundproofing |
|
Machine Variety |
Multiple electronic gaming machines (pokies) |
|
RTP Rate |
Minimum 87% as per Victorian regulations |
|
Pre-commitment System |
YourPlay available (voluntary) |
|
Staff Training |
RSG-certified personnel on-site |
|
Operating Hours |
Daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 AM |
|
Additional Gaming |
TAB betting facilities next door |
The venue's proximity to TAB (Totalisator Agency Board) betting facilities provides additional gaming options for those interested in horse racing, greyhound racing, and other sports betting. This historical connection dates back decades when Balaclava Hotel attracted racing identities, bookmakers, jockeys, owners, and trainers during the 1970s and 1980s.
Player feedback provides valuable insight into the gaming experience at Balaclava Hotel. The venue maintains an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 584 reviews on Pokies Near Me, with recent ratings consistently showing 5-star experiences. This impressive rating reflects the venue's commitment to customer satisfaction and quality gaming entertainment.
One TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "This pub has poker machines and a TAB but served good pub food in the Bistro. Wine list average but nice friendly staff and good service with a smile." The combination of gaming facilities with excellent food service creates a well-rounded entertainment experience that extends beyond just the machines.
A Yelp review humorously questioned whether the affordable meal specials justified visiting the gaming machines, stating: "Is the $10 T-bone really worth being systematically fleeced by the pokies? That's the question." This tongue-in-cheek comment reflects the reality that while gaming can be entertaining, it should always be approached responsibly and within one's means.
|
Review Source |
Average Rating |
Total Reviews |
Recent Trends |
|
Pokies Near Me |
4.0/5.0 |
584 |
Latest ratings: 5 stars |
|
TripAdvisor |
Positive |
Multiple |
Friendly service noted |
|
Yelp |
Mixed |
Several |
Value-for-money discussions |
|
Google Reviews |
Generally Positive |
Numerous |
Gaming + dining praised |
The consensus among reviewers emphasizes that Balaclava Hotel excels at providing a balanced entertainment experience. Players appreciate the separate gaming area, which allows them to enjoy pokies without disturbing other patrons, while those not interested in gaming can still enjoy the venue's excellent bistro, bars, and sports viewing facilities.
From a gaming industry standpoint, Balaclava Hotel represents a well-managed venue that balances commercial success with responsible gambling practices. The hotel's ownership by the Mathieson family since 1994 has provided stability and consistent investment in maintaining quality facilities and customer service standards.
Gaming experts note that Victorian venues like Balaclava Hotel operate under some of Australia's strictest regulations. Recent legislative changes introduced in late 2024 will further strengthen responsible gambling measures, including mandatory pre-commitment cards at selected venues and reduced betting limits. Any new pokies machines approved after December 1, 2025, must have a minimum spin rate of three seconds per game, slowing gameplay by 40 percent and limiting potential losses.
These regulations reflect Victoria's commitment to harm minimization while still allowing adults to enjoy gaming entertainment in licensed venues. Balaclava Hotel's long-standing reputation and commitment to regulatory compliance position it as a responsible operator within this framework.
For those exploring gaming options in the St Kilda East and surrounding areas, several alternative venues offer pokies gaming facilities. Understanding the competitive landscape helps players make informed choices about where to spend their entertainment time and budget.
Inkerman Hotel (375 Inkerman Street, St Kilda East, VIC 3183) stands as another local institution, established in 1859 – a decade before Balaclava Hotel. Located approximately 2 kilometers from Balaclava Hotel, Inkerman Hotel offers gaming facilities alongside traditional pub amenities. The venue features TAB facilities and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that attracts locals who appreciate its historical character.
Grosvenor Hotel St Kilda serves as St Kilda's premier sports bar and gaming destination, offering a sports bar, main bar, gaming lounge, and function spaces. This larger venue provides extensive gaming facilities and is particularly popular among sports enthusiasts who want to combine watching live events with gaming entertainment.
The Elsternwick Club (19 Sandham Street, Elsternwick) operates as a community-focused venue with gaming facilities, located about 3 kilometers from Balaclava Hotel. The Elsternwick Bowls Club offers pokies gaming alongside social activities like lawn bowls, poker nights, and bingo events, creating a more community-oriented atmosphere compared to traditional pub gaming venues.
|
Venue Name |
Address |
Distance from Balaclava Hotel |
Special Features |
|
Balaclava Hotel |
123 Carlisle St, St Kilda East |
Base location |
Historic venue, rooftop bar, UFC screenings |
|
Inkerman Hotel |
375 Inkerman St, St Kilda East |
~2.0 km |
Established 1859, TAB facilities, beer garden |
|
Grosvenor Hotel |
St Kilda |
~1.5 km |
Sports bar, main bar, large gaming lounge |
|
The Elsternwick Club |
19 Sandham St, Elsternwick |
~3.0 km |
Community venue, bowls club, social events |
|
Village Belle Hotel |
St Kilda |
~1.8 km |
Gaming facilities, local pub atmosphere |
Each venue offers unique advantages, but Balaclava Hotel distinguishes itself through its combination of heritage architecture, recent renovations, excellent dining options, and the addition of a spectacular rooftop bar overlooking Carlisle Street. The hotel's central location on one of St Kilda East's main thoroughfares provides easy access via public transport, making it convenient for visitors from across Melbourne.
Balaclava Hotel's location at 123 Carlisle Street, St Kilda East VIC 3183, provides excellent accessibility via multiple transport options. The venue sits in a vibrant neighborhood with outstanding public transport connections to Melbourne CBD and surrounding suburbs.
Tram Services: The most convenient way to reach Balaclava Hotel from Melbourne CBD is via tram. Multiple routes service the area:
Route 16 Tram: Runs from Melbourne CBD along Swanston Street to St Kilda and Balaclava. The nearest stop is "Balaclava Station/Carlisle St #38," located directly adjacent to the hotel, making this the most convenient option.
Route 3/3a Tram: Services Carlisle Street with stops near the venue, connecting to Melbourne University and the CBD via St Kilda Road.
Route 78 Tram: Connects North Richmond to Balaclava, with stops nearby on Chapel Street or Carlisle Street.
The tram journey from Melbourne CBD typically takes 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point. Note that St Kilda is outside Melbourne's Free Tram Zone, so passengers must purchase a Myki card and ensure it's loaded with sufficient credit before boarding.
Train Services: Balaclava Railway Station sits approximately 200 meters from the hotel, providing convenient rail access. The station is on the Sandringham line, offering direct connections to:
Flinders Street Station (Melbourne CBD)
Southern Cross Station
Richmond Station
Caulfield Station
From Balaclava Station, it's a brief 3-minute walk along Carlisle Street to reach the hotel entrance.
|
Transport Type |
Route/Line |
Journey Time from CBD |
Nearest Stop |
Walking Distance |
|
Tram |
Route 16 |
20-25 minutes |
Balaclava Station/Carlisle St #38 |
0 minutes (adjacent) |
|
Tram |
Route 3/3a |
20-25 minutes |
Carlisle St stops |
2-3 minutes |
|
Tram |
Route 78 |
Varies |
Chapel St/Carlisle St |
5 minutes |
|
Train |
Sandringham Line |
15-20 minutes |
Balaclava Station |
3 minutes |
|
Car |
Various routes |
15-20 minutes |
Street parking |
Adjacent |
Driving and Parking: For those preferring to drive, Balaclava Hotel is easily accessible from Melbourne CBD via St Kilda Road or Punt Road. Street parking is available along Carlisle Street and surrounding side streets, though availability varies depending on time of day and day of the week. Weekend evenings tend to be busier, so arriving slightly early or using public transport is recommended for peak times.
Balaclava Hotel has transformed significantly following its 2020 renovation, creating a multi-level entertainment destination that caters to diverse preferences and occasions. The venue successfully balances its historical roots with contemporary design elements, featuring exposed brick and steel, stained hardwood, satin black finishes, and tan upholstery throughout.
Upon entering Balaclava Hotel, guests are greeted by a spacious central bar offering an impressive selection of beverages. The main bar features 14 different draught beers on tap, ranging from popular Australian lagers to craft beer selections. The wine list encompasses both local Victorian wines and imported varieties, while the spirits selection covers all major categories for cocktails and mixed drinks.
The bistro area provides comfortable seating for lunch and dinner service, with a menu focusing on elevated pub classics. Signature dishes include:
Chicken parmigiana with chips and salad
Fresh fish and chips
Premium Graziers steaks
Gourmet pizzas
Fresh salads
Modern Australian dishes
The bistro operates with the following schedule:
|
Day |
Lunch Service |
Dinner Service |
|
Monday - Thursday |
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
5:00 PM - 8:30 PM |
|
Friday |
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM |
|
Saturday |
12:00 PM - 10:00 PM |
Continuous service |
|
Sunday |
12:00 PM - 8:30 PM |
Continuous service |
The crown jewel of Balaclava Hotel's renovation is the spectacular rooftop bar, accessible via stairs or lift for accessibility. This elevated entertainment space offers:
Capacity: Up to 120 guests for private functions or casual visits
Fully Stocked Bar: 8 beers on tap plus full spirits and wine selection
All-Weather Facilities: Retractable roof shutters, heating for winter, misting fans for summer
Entertainment Features: Bluetooth connectivity for music, 2 wall-mounted TVs
Private Amenities: Dedicated bathrooms, separate entrance
Views: Overlooking Carlisle Street and the St Kilda East neighborhood
The rooftop bar provides an ideal setting for private functions, including engagement parties, birthday celebrations, corporate events, Christmas parties, and casual social gatherings. The all-weather design ensures events can proceed regardless of Melbourne's notoriously unpredictable climate.
Balaclava Hotel has established itself as Melbourne's "Ultimate UFC Pub," committed to showing every UFC bout live, free, and on big screens. This dedication to mixed martial arts entertainment attracts enthusiasts from across Melbourne, creating an electric atmosphere during major fight nights.
Beyond UFC, the venue broadcasts all major Australian and international sporting events, including:
AFL (Australian Football League)
NRL (National Rugby League)
Cricket (international and domestic)
Soccer (Premier League, A-League, Champions League)
Rugby Union
Tennis
Horse racing
Multiple large-screen televisions throughout the main bar ensure excellent viewing from virtually any seat, while the rooftop bar and upper level also feature screens for sports viewing in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Balaclava Hotel participates in the Pub+ loyalty program, offering regular patrons rewards and exclusive benefits. The program operates via a mobile app and provides:
Welcome Bonus: $10 in rewards upon joining (terms apply)
Points Earning: Accumulate points with every food and beverage purchase
Reward Redemption: Reach 200 points to unlock a Pub+ coin for rewards
Member Exclusives: Special deals and promotional offers
Multiple Venue Access: Use your membership at other participating venues
The app is free to download from the App Store or Google Play, and guests can scan a QR code at the venue to sign up immediately.
For those planning to visit Balaclava Hotel, having accurate contact details ensures a smooth experience, particularly for function inquiries or table bookings.
Address: 123 Carlisle Street, St Kilda East, VIC 3183, Australia
Phone: +61 3 9531 2709
General Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM (bar and venue access)
Kitchen hours vary (see bistro schedule above)
Website: www.thebalaclavahotel.com.au
Social Media: Follow Balaclava Hotel on Facebook and Instagram for daily specials, event announcements, and live sports schedules.
For function inquiries, guests can submit requests through the website's dedicated functions page or call during business hours to speak with the events coordinator. The venue offers customizable packages for groups of various sizes, with the rooftop bar accommodating up to 120 guests for private bookings.
Balaclava Hotel's location in St Kilda East places it within easy reach of numerous attractions, amenities, and entertainment options. The venue serves as an excellent base for exploring one of Melbourne's most eclectic neighborhoods.
Shopping and Dining: Carlisle Street functions as the heart of St Kilda East's commercial district, featuring diverse retail outlets, cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and specialty food stores. The street reflects the area's multicultural heritage, with particular strength in Jewish delicatessens, Middle Eastern cuisine, and European bakeries.
St Kilda Beach: Located approximately 2 kilometers west, St Kilda Beach represents one of Melbourne's most iconic coastal destinations. Visitors can walk, cycle, or take a brief tram ride to reach the beachfront, Luna Park, and the famous St Kilda Pier.
Cultural Venues: The nearby Acland Street precinct offers additional entertainment options, including bars, nightclubs, theatres, and live music venues. The Palais Theatre, one of Melbourne's premier concert halls, sits just minutes away.
Parks and Recreation: Several green spaces provide respite from urban density, including Alma Park (hosting local sports clubs) and the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, both within walking or short cycling distance.
|
Nearby Attraction |
Distance |
Type |
Highlights |
|
Balaclava Railway Station |
200 meters |
Transport |
Direct CBD connections |
|
Carlisle Street Shopping |
Adjacent |
Shopping/Dining |
Multicultural restaurants, cafes |
|
Chapel Street |
800 meters |
Shopping/Dining |
Fashion boutiques, bars, eateries |
|
St Kilda Beach |
2 km |
Recreation |
Beach, Luna Park, pier |
|
Acland Street |
1.5 km |
Entertainment |
Bars, cafes, Palais Theatre |
|
Caulfield Racecourse |
3 km |
Entertainment |
Horse racing venue |
Balaclava Hotel's historical journey adds depth to the contemporary entertainment experience. First established in 1869 under the name Carlisle Hotel, the venue's foundation predates Melbourne's emergence as a major metropolitan center. The first license holder, T Ryan, experienced insolvency that led to a lease transfer to Thomas W Fiske in 1873, reflecting the economic challenges of colonial-era hospitality.
The hotel served the working-class residents of the Balaclava "flats," as opposed to the wealthier "Hillites" living on elevated St Kilda terrain. This social divide created a rivalry so pronounced that locals battled over the location of the "new" Town Hall, with distinct identities as "Flattites" and "Hillites" persisting through the late 19th century.
The current building dates to 1887, designed by architect John Frederick Gibbins. The facade prominently incorporates publican Edward Allen's name as "E. Allen's Balaclava Hotel," architectural detail that remains visible today and connects present guests to the venue's Victorian-era origins.
Throughout the 20th century, Balaclava Hotel passed through numerous publicans' hands, with Ferguson McLelland holding the license through the 1960s before later managing Royal Hotel in Essendon. Peter Doyle's tenure from 1971 to 1983 marked a particularly colorful period, as the pub attracted racing identities, bookmakers, jockeys, owners, and trainers. A TAB was constructed next door during this era, cementing the venue's association with horse racing culture.
Famous racing journalist Jack "Ace" Ayling from Truth newspaper regularly enjoyed drinks at Balaclava Hotel before eventually moving to the Post Office Club Hotel to join his friend, legendary jockey Roy Higgins. These connections to Melbourne's racing scene contributed to the pub's character and reputation.
In 1994, Bruce Mathieson acquired ownership of Balaclava Hotel, and it has remained within the Mathieson family business portfolio since. This ownership stability has enabled consistent investment in upgrades while maintaining the venue's essential character.
While the exterior facade has remained largely unchanged since 1887, preserving its heritage architecture, the interior has evolved significantly. Various renovations over the decades included a beer garden, a dance floor, and multiple bar configurations. The comprehensive 2020 renovation created the current layout: a fresh bar and bistro on the ground level, plus an additional bar and brand new rooftop bar on the upper level, all while respecting the building's historical bones.
Balaclava Hotel takes its responsibilities regarding gambling harm minimization seriously, adhering to all Victorian regulatory requirements and industry best practices. The venue operates under the oversight of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), Victoria's independent gambling authority responsible for licensing and regulation.
All venue staff complete mandatory Responsible Service of Gaming (RSG) training, equipping them to:
Observe and interact with customers to prevent and minimize gambling harm
Identify signs of problem gambling behavior
Provide appropriate intervention when necessary
Maintain detailed records in a responsible gambling register
Direct patrons to support services when needed
The venue displays information about Gambler's Help services, a free and confidential counseling service available to Victorians affected by problem gambling. Contact information for the Gambling Help Online service (1800 858 858) and website (www.gamblinghelponline.org.au) is prominently displayed in the gaming area.
Victoria's YourPlay pre-commitment system is available at Balaclava Hotel, allowing players to voluntarily set limits on their spending and playing time. This technology-based system helps patrons maintain control over their gaming expenditure and supports responsible entertainment choices.
What types of pokies machines are available at Balaclava Hotel?
Balaclava Hotel offers a variety of electronic gaming machines (pokies) in its dedicated gaming room. The venue complies with all Victorian gaming regulations, including the minimum 87% return-to-player requirement. Specific machine types and denominations vary, and guests can inquire with staff for current machine availability.
Do I need to be a member to play pokies at Balaclava Hotel?
No membership is required to access the gaming facilities at Balaclava Hotel. The venue welcomes all patrons aged 18 and over with valid identification. However, joining the free Pub+ loyalty program provides additional benefits and rewards for regular visitors.
What are the gaming room operating hours?
The gaming facilities at Balaclava Hotel operate daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 AM, aligning with the venue's general operating hours. These extended hours accommodate various schedules and preferences.
Is food and drink service available in the gaming area?
Yes, patrons in the gaming room can order food and beverages from the bar and bistro. Staff can assist with ordering, or guests can briefly step to the main bar area while maintaining their gaming position.
What responsible gambling measures are in place?
Balaclava Hotel implements Victoria's mandatory responsible gambling framework, including RSG-trained staff, YourPlay pre-commitment system availability, gambling harm information displays, and connections to Gambler's Help services. All staff are trained to identify and respond appropriately to signs of gambling-related harm.
Can I host a private function at Balaclava Hotel?
Absolutely. The rooftop bar accommodates private functions for up to 120 guests, featuring its own bar, entertainment systems, all-weather facilities, and private bathrooms. Contact the venue directly for function packages, availability, and pricing.
Is Balaclava Hotel accessible for guests with mobility limitations?
Yes, the venue includes lift access to the upper level and rooftop bar, ensuring accessibility for guests with mobility challenges. The gaming area, main bar, and bistro are all accessible from the ground floor entrance.
What payment methods are accepted?
Balaclava Hotel accepts cash, EFTPOS, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and contactless payment methods. ATM facilities are available on-site for cash withdrawals (Australian Dollars - AUD).
Are there any age restrictions?
As a licensed gaming and liquor venue, Balaclava Hotel enforces a strict 18+ age policy. Valid identification (driver's license, passport, or proof-of-age card) may be requested at entry, particularly during evening hours.
How do I get to Balaclava Hotel from Melbourne CBD?
The most convenient option is Route 16 tram from Swanston Street, alighting at "Balaclava Station/Carlisle St #38" stop directly adjacent to the venue. Alternatively, take the Sandringham line train to Balaclava Station and walk 3 minutes along Carlisle Street. Journey time is approximately 20-25 minutes.