Craigs Royal Hotel Reviews

I cannot give you 5 stars even though the food and the kitchen deserves it. We had dinner just before today and the service was the most disappointing thing we have ever experienced at any restaurant in Australia. Our service experience was so bad that it completely detracted from the whole dining experience. I would have expected this sort of behaviour from a third rate restaurant out the middle of no where, but not at one of the most highly regarded restaurants in Ballarat. We think it was the server at our table because everyone else we interacted with on the night were really nice. Great food and great cocktails. Our experience was absolutely terrible service if you are not the typical sort of patron that visits here........ Very disappointed and will be letting our mates and work colleagues know.

We were very happy with our two-night stay at Ballarat's historic Craig's Royal Hotel. The staff were polite, professional, and helpful, and the room was reasonably priced and comfortable. The heritage decoration and details were exemplary, and the breakfasts, included in the tariff, were excellent. We felt, nevertheless, that the hotel's reputation as 'an icon of the Victorian period' and the choice of prime ministers and princes has been put at risk by the inclusion of a Gaming Room that looks no different from the type you would find in an ordinary suburban club or pub. It was no doubt added as a financial necessity, and perhaps an acknowledgment that times and tastes have changed, but poker machines do not sit comfortably with the published history and image of Craig's Royal Hotel as a place that has catered for discerning customers. This is not a snobbish reaction, but rather an observation about the confusion one glimpses about Craig's present
place in the market.

I was last here in January 2021 and the food and service were exceptional. I gave a five star rating then. So disappointed to return here in May 2021 and the new owners have installed the same ordering system as their other 'pubs'. You order your food and drinks at the bar. Really? This is Craig's Royal Hotel and one should expect table service. A word of advice to the new owners; don't use the same business model as your other pubs. People come here because of the fine dining reputation. People will now stay away for the new reputation you'll earn. An overpriced RSL.

An absolute joy of a stay in this wonderfully restored and well-maintained hotel, reminiscent of a bygone era. Well decorated foyer, individual and function rooms. Muted lighting, period furniture, chandeliers, high decorated ceilings and cornices, standout fireplaces, I can go on and on. Great ambience, friendly staff, interesting menu for breakfast and dinner. The high-tea on Sunday is a great addition to any stay. A great place for a short romantic getaway and break. I highly recommend this fine establishment for anyone wanting to experience something different and special.

We only attended to have dinner and the service and staff are polite. Our childs order came out first as requested and it was quite a nice serving size. It was the fish and chips. My wife and i had the porter house medium rare with pepper sauce. The steak was cooked as ordered and the portion size was very reasonable. The chips were cooked to be very crunchy as we like them. The only item was the steak was a little too fatty / grisly for my wife but she enjoyed it none the less. It is a little pricey so if cost is a concern this may not be for you. Overall it was very enjoyable and we would recommend dinning their to our friends and family.

STOP! Don't search any further if you're after special experience.
For most that want to play tourist in Ballarat, perhaps like us, you're after 'heritage'. Craig's Royal Hotel delivers in spades. Stunning period decor, and great service from every team member we encountered ... without them wanting to be our best friends ;) And Housekeeping? A++++ Immaculate be it room or common areas, even our engagement with you in the corridors.
Wanting to treat ourselves after a significant wedding anniversary spent in lock down last year, we opted for a package that offered accommodation in a Superior Balcony room including a two course evening meal + a bottle from a selected wine list up to a certain $ value, and a fully cooked breakfast (continental also available if you have a smaller appetite than us :) Yes, you get to choose from the full normal evening & breakfast menus, not a budget controlled 'special' menu.
Management, please ensure you congratulate your team and congratulations on you, well, wonderful management.
Thanks... Happy campers!

Amazing. Glorious example of Australian architecture. Definitely a 5 star experience. Dinner was stand out sensational. Slept like a baby. Room decor was luxurious and true to the era of the building. To all who appreciate the work of William Morris, this hotel is a feast for the senses. Love love loved it.

Was excited about a night out and had enjoyed the great service and food at Craig's before but was disappointed this time. New owners have decided no table service so we had to go and order our food and go to the bar for drinks. We missed this part of the Craig's experience and felt like it wasn't that extra bit special anymore. The food itself was nice but nothing out of the ordinary but with a premium price. We had lamb with a mash which reminded us of the Deb instant mash you buy at Cole's Staff were great but we noticed one wait staff served.a table their food while ours just left it there for us too do. We wont hurry back.

This beautiful hotel is like taking a step back in time, as soon as you walk through the door. The food was to die for (we had the Chateaubriand for 2 and shared the vanilla bean panacotta - melt in your mouth deliciousness) The staff were lovely, rooms very comfortable and the decor is sensational. Very classy and tasteful. Breakfast is also included. Highly recommend!

This place is amazing, could not be happier with our choice. Staff can't do enough for us , always obliging and the food has been spectacular. Yes you pay more for the service, but it is worth the money. This is one place I highly recommend. Service, cleanliness and food all outstanding.