Grand Junction Hotel

The Grand Junction Hotel is a long-standing Maitland pub with a clear local identity. Known to locals as The Junkyard, it has been a landmark since 1896 and is locally owned and managed. The venue positions itself as a place for unwinding with a drink, sharing food with friends and family, watching sport, or marking a special occasion, making it a flexible choice in Maitland, Newcastle.

Food is a major part of the offering, with Ray’s Pizza Joint operating from the hotel. Its deep-dish pan pizzas are made with fresh ingredients, and the menu also covers pub classics, burgers, salads, sides, kids’ meals and desserts. Named standouts include the Motown pizza with pepperoni, hot honey and chilli flakes; the Marry Me Chicken pizza; and the Junkyard Dog, topped with pulled pork, bacon, ham, brisket and chicken. For something beyond pizza, the menu lists a Southern Fried Chicken Burger, Thai Beef Salad, Chicken Schnitzel and Twice Cooked Pork Belly.

The hotel also runs a regular programme of food and entertainment offers. The website lists trivia, open mic nights, DJ and live music, meat raffles, a pool competition, members draws and a schooner card draw, alongside weekly meals such as pizza and pasta, schnitzel, Wagyu steak and a Sunday roast. These details give the venue a social, activity-led feel rather than presenting it as simply a place to eat. Offers and events are scheduled across the week, so checking the current programme before visiting is sensible.

For larger gatherings, the Grand Junction Hotel has event spaces and function packages, with catering available through Ray’s Pizza Joint. The venue’s broad setup suits casual group catch-ups, family meals and celebrations, while the kids’ menu and free ice cream with kids’ meals are useful touches for families. Solo diners can also order from the Ray’s menu, including for dine-in, pickup or online ordering. With its long Maitland history, pub food, pizza focus and rotating entertainment, The Junkyard is a practical all-rounder for locals and visitors looking for a relaxed pub session or a group occasion.