About Criterion Hotel
Criterion Hotel is a hotel and pub located at Bourke St, Carrington NSW 2294. A historic local favorite in the heart of Carrington. The venue has 6 approved gaming machines (pokies). It is rated 4.5 out of 5 from 258 Google reviews. A food and drinks menu is listed below. Phone: (02) 4961 5597.
A historic local favorite in the heart of Carrington
The Criterion Hotel, affectionately known as 'The Cri', is a cornerstone of the Carrington community in Newcastle. Established in the late 19th century, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern hospitality. The venue is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, spacious outdoor beer garden, and high-quality pub bistro, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a relaxed social experience.
What Criterion Hotel offers
Accomodation
Restaurant
Food served
Bar
6 Gaming machines
Establishment
Events
Open now
Criterion Hotel location and map
Opening times
Frequently asked questions about Criterion Hotel
Where is Criterion Hotel located?
Criterion Hotel is located at Bourke St, Carrington NSW 2294. It is a hotel and pub in the suburb of Carrington, New South Wales.
What are the opening hours of Criterion Hotel?
Criterion Hotel opening hours: Monday: Closed; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM; Thursday: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM; Friday: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM; Saturday: 11:30 AM to 12:00 AM; Sunday: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours can change on public holidays, so check with the venue before visiting.
Does Criterion Hotel have pokies?
Yes. Criterion Hotel has 6 gaming machines (pokies) approved under its NSW hotel licence.
Does Criterion Hotel serve food?
Yes. Criterion Hotel serves food and its menu with prices is listed on this page. Kitchen hours may differ from the venue opening hours.
Does Criterion Hotel have a bar?
Yes. Criterion Hotel holds a NSW liquor hotel licence and serves alcoholic drinks at the bar.
What is the phone number for Criterion Hotel?
You can phone Criterion Hotel on (02) 4961 5597.
How is Criterion Hotel rated?
Criterion Hotel is rated 4.5 out of 5 based on 258 Google reviews.
Which venues are near Criterion Hotel?
Licensed venues close to Criterion Hotel include Seven Seas Hotel, Carrington Bowling Club Co-operative Limited, The Albion Hotel (Wickham), Boatrowers Hotel. See the nearby venues list on this page for distances and details.
Hotel Services & Facilities
Dining & Bars
The Criterion Bistro
A highly-regarded dining space serving classic pub fare with a focus on premium steaks, gourmet burgers, and fresh seafood.
Main Bar
Features an extensive range of local and craft beers on tap, an curated wine list, and traditional spirits in a classic pub setting.
The Beer Garden
A large, sun-drenched courtyard perfect for alfresco dining and casual drinks in a dog-friendly environment.
Entertainment & Leisure
Live Music
Regular performances by local soloists and bands, typically hosted on weekends in the courtyard or main bar.
Wagering & Gaming
Full TAB facilities and a dedicated gaming room for patrons.
Pub Trivia
Weekly trivia nights hosted in the bar area, popular with the local community.
Meat Raffles
Traditional meat tray raffles held on specific weeknights to support local community initiatives.
Family Features
Kids Menu
A selection of affordable meals tailored for children, including favorites like fish and chips, nuggets, and burgers.
Dog Friendly Area
The spacious outdoor courtyard is pet-friendly, allowing families to bring their dogs along.
Functions & Events
Outdoor Courtyard Functions
A flexible outdoor space suitable for casual birthday parties, engagement celebrations, and community gatherings.
Bistro Group Bookings
The bistro accepts large group bookings for family events and corporate lunches with set menu options available upon request.
Amenities & Services
Outdoor Seating
Extensive alfresco seating area with umbrellas and heating for year-round comfort.
Street Parking
Ample on-street parking is available in the surrounding streets of Carrington.
Wheelchair Access
Ground floor entry providing access to the main bar, bistro, and outdoor courtyard areas.
Our Food & Drinks Menu
* Please note that all images are for illustration purposes only and actual serving will vastly differ.
Criterion Hotel reviews
4 Star Review by Derek Jenkins
The Criterion is our go-to dog-friendly pub in Carrington. All of the staff are incredibly friendly and super-professional. Chilled family vibe during the day makes it perfect for a weekend lunch. Good variety of dishes on the menu and the meals are great quality but they can be a bit stingy on serving sizes (eg my fish and chips which was mostly chips alongside three cocktail fish pieces).
2 Star Review by Greg L
What's happened to this place. Probably the worst meal I have had in years. I'm hoping the cook was having an off night, but the Brazilian pork was nothing Brazilian and I'm not sure what was up with it but haven't been feeling great since. Also kids grilled chicken looked poached and was rather tasteless. Definitely not the normal standard
5 Star Review by Millie Shorter
My fav pub in Newcastle! Wings are great and we love that they have a pool table. Great neighbourhood pub.
4 Star Review by Shevy Nova
Had a great stay at The Criterion. We were arriving late and Beau and staff stayed after the pub had shut to give us a warm welcome and a drink on arrival. The room was spacious, clean and comfy. The shared bathrooms were basic, well-maintained, and exactly what you want for the price. Would love to visit again and arrive while the pub is open. Thanks very much.
5 Star Review by Wayne Hodges (Wayno)
Very good food and beverages, nice establishment
5 Star Review by Lachlan T
Trivia, food, beverages. All 5 stars
5 Star Review by M Dawson
No comment provided.
5 Star Review by AlMichelle Sauer
Had our chrissie work lunch here. Food was excellent, great value and a good selection of beers. However the staff were the mainstay, so lovely & accommodating to us from pre-booking days prior right through to bidding us farewell. Thanks to all, we'll be back for sure.
5 Star Review by Matt Overton
No comment provided.
3 Star Review by Shane Heiss
No comment provided.