The Boiler Room

The look: Once quite literally the boiler room which kept Abbotsford Convent warm, the space has been converted into a hole-in-the-wall bar dispensing cool drinks. But while the old equipment is out of service, it certainly isn’t out of sight.
The great outdoors: Located within the Convent’s expansive grounds, the Boiler Room can probably lay claim to the best beer garden in town. Patrons typically deposit themselves on the umbrella shaded benches or underneath a nearby tree, often with a newspaper in tow.
To drink: A small selection of Victorian wines, freshly squeezed juices and Gippsland’s Grand Ridge beers on tap.
To eat: Kranskys are available at the bar otherwise it’s a whole ten metres to the Convent Bakery or Lentil As Anything.
The crowd: Varied. Few bars see parents with prams.
Bar soundtrack: Live Cuban music on Fridays.
Best for: Last drinks occur relatively early, so make it an afternoon visit.

By Marinella Padula

Address: 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford
Phone: 9415 3600
Open: Friday – Sunday