About Lock 'n' Load

From fashion to food, West End has always done things a little differently.

Shying away from the trends and passing fads of the rest of the city, West End is a culturally diverse area that has focused on its own unique style. The addition of Boundary Street bistro Lock ‘n' Load is no exception.

Step through the front door and what is immediately noticeable is the pub-like atmosphere. It's relaxed and cheerful. The fully-stocked bar is welcoming and the polished wooden floorboards and weather-board exterior are a far cry from the stainless steel and glass fit-outs that are fast becoming the norm.

However, it's the pub grub that is the real winner. Owner Lachlan Bird, inspired by his international travels and the gastro-pubs of London, has put a lot of effort into creating a large-portioned, wholesome menu that caters to the varying tastes of the locals, including vegetarians.

From the house-made wild mushroom ravioli with semi dried tomato tapenade to the eye fillet wrapped in wood-smoked bacon on pesto mash with asparagus, Lock ‘n’ Load has taken some classic favourites and given them a modern taste-lift.

To help wash it all it down, Lock ‘n’ Load has a great selection of beers, wines and spirits as well as an original yet potent cocktail list that has patrons wanting to try each one in turn. Get the evening off to a flying start with a ‘Kiss my West End’. As a venue, Lock ‘n’ Load is deceptively large. Its long, narrow layout starts with the bar area at the front leading to the stretch of indoor dining. It then opens onto an alfresco area at the back which is conducive to intimate dining and catching up with friends.

The outdoor space, with a bar, is large enough to cater for up to 150 people for corporate and Christmas functions or that special occasion, while inside further utilises the space to display local artwork on a rotational basis.

Heritage-listed as the first commercial tenancy in West End and with previous incarnations as a general store and chemist, it is not surprising the site of Lock ‘n’ Load is once again becoming a commercial hub.

Whether having a quiet drink after work, a quick lunch or a relaxing weekend breakfast, Lock ‘n’ Load is the perfect place to chill and unwind, West End style.