The Red Lion Hotel is a premier entertainment venue located in the heart of Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. With a rich history dating back to the 1850s, our venue has been a staple in the community, hosting numerous events, functions, and gatherings over the years.
Our Story
Built during the gold rush era, The Red Lion Hotel was a popular spot for miners to relax and unwind after a long day of prospecting. The hotel's historic charm has been preserved, and we take pride in maintaining its nostalgic ambiance while providing modern amenities and services.
Services
Our venue offers a range of services to cater to diverse needs and preferences. From fine dining to casual meals, our restaurants and bars provide an exceptional culinary experience. Leo's Restaurant is our premier dining destination, offering full table service and an extensive wine list. The Simba Sports Bar is the perfect spot to catch up with friends while enjoying a sporting match or a drink. Our Simba Deck is an enclosed space perfect for functions and events, while our cafe and bar area provide a relaxed atmosphere for meals and drinks.
Functions and Spaces
We have a range of spaces suitable for every occasion, from corporate events to birthday parties and weddings. Our Nicholas Function Room is ideal for small conferences, dinner meetings, and presentation nights. The Boardroom is a private space perfect for business meetings, sports groups, or private dinners. Our playground area is a fun spot for kids, featuring tunnels, slides, and other equipment.
At The Red Lion Hotel, we strive to provide exceptional service, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a venue for your next event, we've got you covered.
Overall Experience
The reviewers praised the Red Lion for its cleanliness, polite staff, and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel next to the restaurant was also commended for its cool ambiance.
Food Quality
The majority of reviewers raved about the food, describing it as "amazing", "beautiful", "delicious", and "incredible". The portions were noted to be quite large, and the menu options, such as the porterhouse and scotch fillet, were highly recommended.
Service
The service was consistently praised, with reviewers noting that the staff were welcoming, professional, and attentive. Particular mentions were made of Kelly, the waitress, and Shaun, the chef, who went above and beyond to ensure a fantastic dining experience.
Ambiance
The entertainment area was highlighted as a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal, and the undercover deck area was praised for being pet-friendly.
Minor Criticisms
One reviewer noted that the wine selection could be improved, and another mentioned that the cauliflower steak was unusual, but these comments were minor and did not detract from the overall positive experience.

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