After weeks spent tracking down flaky pastries, towering burgers, woodfired pizzas and mouthwatering parmis, Roamin Rowan has turned his attention to one of the biggest pub debates of them all – finding Ipswich’s ultimate pub meal.
Week 11 of Ipswich’s favourite local food hunt has become the series’ biggest success yet, with the Facebook post attracting close to 50,000 views in just 24 hours.
The overwhelming response showcased not only the passion locals have for a great pub meal, but also the pride Ipswich residents have in supporting their favourite local venues.
As nominations rolled in, locals enthusiastically defended their favourite watering holes, sharing stories of family dinners, Sunday lunches, memorable specials and meals worth travelling across town for.
Friendly rivalry between venues quickly emerged, with patrons proudly championing their local pub and encouraging others to cast a vote.
Honourable mentions went to the Commercial Hotel at Redbank, Grandchester Hotel and United Sports Club, with each attracting strong support from loyal locals.
But when the votes were counted, one venue stood head and shoulders above the rest. Walloon Tavern proved the overwhelming favourite, with a flood of nominations cementing its place as Ipswich’s top choice for a great pub meal.
Forget everything you thought you knew about steak sandwiches because the Walloon Hotel has taken the humble pub classic and given it a buttery, garlicky glow-up.
Instead of ordinary bread, this beauty is stacked between two thick slices of golden garlic bread, creating the perfect crunchy, buttery foundation for a steak cooked exactly as it should be – tender, juicy and packed with flavour.
Add fresh tomato, crisp lettuce, melted cheese and a generous drizzle of smoky barbecue sauce, served up with fries and every bite is an absolute knockout.
It’s gloriously messy, unapologetically indulgent and proof that sometimes the best pub meals come with a little extra garlic. If you’re looking for a sandwich that’s a cut above the rest, this one absolutely delivers.
Roamin Rowan: 14/10 – when it comes to the Gibson’s and the team at Walloon Hotel and what they do with pub food and hospitality the rule book and score board is thrown. out the window!
