Rooty Hill RSL

Australia’s largest RSL club, out in Sydney’s western suburbs, and far more than a returned-servicemen’s bar: it’s a sprawling entertainment complex with multiple restaurants and bars, live music and comedy, a bowling alley, gym and aquatic centre, a Novotel hotel and a big performing-arts theatre. Cheap, hearty club meals and a genuine slice of suburban Sydney social life — anyone can sign in as a guest.

While you’re in the city, pair it with a Sydney historic pubs tour with a meal.