Restaurant

Friend in Hand Hotel

58 Cowper St, Glebe NSW 2037, Australia

Recommended by 41 people

Updated

Find Friend in Hand Hotel

58 Cowper St, Glebe NSW 2037, Australia

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HoursMonday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Friend in Hand Hotel

A proper corner pub that skips modern refits for suspended kayaks, vintage signs, and Georgie—the resident cockatoo perched near the bar. Glebe regulars head straight for comforting counter staples: veal schnitties, steak night with mushroom gravy, and an Irish spice bag. Upstairs runs on free pool, darts, and monthly hermit crab races, while downstairs pours cold pints beside an indoor gas fire with dogs welcome right beside the stools.

  • Storied Decor & Resident Cockatoo: Eclectic bric-a-brac spans hanging kayaks, vintage signs, and an overhead model train circling above the front bar.
  • Hearty Counter Classics: Unpretentious bistro classics turn out veal schnitzels with Neapolitan sauce, steak nights with mushroom gravy, and Irish spice bags.
  • Pub Games & Crab Races: Upstairs floor houses pool tables, darts, and arcade games, alongside novelty events like monthly hermit crab racing.
  • Fireside Pints & Dog-Friendly Vibe: Well-kept draft beers, attentive staff banter, and an indoor gas fireplace welcoming four-legged companions.

What's On at Friend in Hand Hotel

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Settle In at Friend in Hand Hotel

From resident cockatoos and quirky crab racing to dependable bistro feasts, here is why Glebe locals keep coming back—book a table and experience it for yourself.

  • A Living Pub Legend: Resident Cockatoo Georgie

    The venue boasts a genuinely unique mascot in Georgie, a friendly Sulphur-crested Cockatoo who roams the pub and greets patrons.

    There is a resident Sulphur-crested Cockatoo that even has favourite patrons

    Benjamin Vorster
  • Eclectic Nostalgia and Authentic Aussie Pub Soul

    Stepping inside reveals a refreshingly unpretentious haven filled with suspended kayaks, model trains, and vintage signs that reject sterile modern aesthetics.

    Colourful old-school pub with a bistro menu, plus vintage signs, hanging kayaks and a live cockatoo.

    John karmas
  • Unfiltered Shenanigans and Crab Racing

    Eccentric monthly hermit crab races and high-energy crowd participation offer unscripted, laugh-out-loud entertainment you won't find anywhere else.

    Crab racing is a must, but be prepared to get wet.

    Mark Titley
  • Upstairs Free Play and Social Games

    With pool tables, free darts, and retro arcade cabinets upstairs, it is purpose-built for lively get-togethers and birthday celebrations with mates.

    free darts upstairs, good pool tables, snd always a solid soundtrack playing!

    Sasha McCormick
  • Cult-Favorite Irish Spice Bags and Hearty Grub

    The kitchen serves standout comfort classics, headlined by a legendary Irish spice bag seasoned to perfection and hearty schnitzel combinations.

    The spice bag is great! Would recommend.

    James B
  • Generous Steak Nights and Traditional Pub Standards

    Hearty weeknight specials, perfectly grilled steaks with house-made gravies, and crisp draught beers deliver consistent, dependable pub dining.

    Popped in for steak night and was seriously impressed. Food was spot on; particularly the mushroom gravy!

    Darcie Prince

Beyond the menu

Eccentric character, kinetic curios, and attentive hospitality in Glebe—book your table today.

  • Resident Cockatoo Greetings

    The pub's resident Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Georgie, greets visitors in the public bar and makes playful appearances during upstairs functions.

  • Overhead Bar Model Train

    A functioning miniature model train continuously loops on an overhead track mounted directly above the main bar.

  • Monthly Hermit Crab Races

    Held on the last Wednesday of every month, the pub stages interactive hermit crab races right on the floor for lively crowd participation.

  • Thoughtful Gluten-Free Menus

    The kitchen thoughtfully accommodates gluten-free diners with an extensive, dedicated range of options across its hearty bistro lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there really a live cockatoo at the pub?

Yes, the pub has a resident Sulphur-crested Cockatoo named Georgie who interacts with guests and is a well-known presence around the venue.

What games and entertainment are available upstairs?

Upstairs you can play free darts and pool, plus arcade and pinball games. The pub is also known for hosting events like hermit crab races and raffle nights.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, the pub welcomes dogs and is a friendly spot to bring your pet along for a quiet drink.

Are there gluten-free food options?

Yes, the kitchen offers gluten-free options on its bistro menu alongside classic pub dishes.

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