Paul and Jan Phillips with owners Ali and Kay Albataat.
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Dive into the heart of the Goulburn Valley’s culinary scene with Jan and Paul Phillips. Every Friday, the pair will serve our readers with their knowledge of our communities’ restaurants, cafés and pubs — one plate at a time.
Paul Phillips signing the wall of fame at Pablo’s.
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If you’ve wandered past the iconic tower in the heart of Shepparton lately, chances are you’ve heard the buzz — or perhaps felt the beat — from Pablo’s Burgers, the freshest addition to the local foodie scene.
Perfectly tucked near the tower and right in the centre of town, Pablo’s is more than just a burger joint — it’s a whole vibe.
From the moment you step inside, the energy hits you.
Music pulses through the space, setting a laid-back but lively tone that pairs beautifully with polished, painted floors and eclectic decor.
The walls, covered in striking images, are conversation starters on their own.
Comfortable tables and chairs invite you to sit back, relax and take it all in.
It’s a place where teenagers can head out for a fun night, and parents can feel reassured — it’s safe, friendly and full of positive energy.
What really sets Pablo’s apart, though, is the people.
The staff are warm, welcoming and genuinely proud to be part of something special.
You get the sense they’re not just flipping burgers — they’re building community.
Paul and I happened to stroll by on opening day, drawn in by the buzz (and maybe the irresistible smell).
We stopped for a chat and were greeted by Ali and Kay, the proud owners, who met us with a sparkle in their eyes and contagious excitement in their voices.
“Come and have a look,” Ali said, his eyes dancing.
We did — and it was clear something unique was taking shape.
The lads had worked hard to bring this place to life, and you could feel their pride in every detail.
Ali warned us that opening night would be busy, so we decided to come back another time.
And when we did, Pablo’s delivered.
The vibe? Fun and electric.
The food? Absolutely worth the wait.
We even ran into Tom Magee, who was just finishing his meal.
When we asked for his verdict, he smiled and said, “Full as — and the place is great. I’ll be back.”
A good sign for any new business, especially in a climate where rising costs and complex challenges make opening a café-restaurant no small feat.
But the team at Pablo’s seems to have struck the perfect balance between enthusiasm and keeping it real.
As for the food?
The burgers are delicious, generous and surprisingly affordable.
Whether you’re after a classic beef stack, spicy chicken or a tasty plant-based option, there’s something for every craving, with all food groups catered for.
And the fries — oh, the fries!
While the classic variety is great, the loaded fries are where the magic really happens, with toppings ranging from gooey cheese and beef rashers to tangy pickles and house-made sauces.
One of the most charming touches?
Pablo’s encourages every guest to “Come in, grab a bite, and leave your mark.”
Everyone’s welcome to sign their name on the wall, adding a personal note to an already character-filled space.
It’s a simple gesture — but it says everything: You belong here.
So, next time you’re near the tower, swing by Pablo’s.
Grab a burger, sign the wall and become part of Shepparton’s evolving story — one bite at a time.
And the magic doesn’t have to stop there.
One of the best things about Shepparton is the way local businesses complement each other.
After enjoying Pablo’s Aussie Burger and a Pablo’s Special Burger, we took a short stroll around the corner to Augustus Gelatery.
The weather was perfect, and there was no better way to wrap up a balmy autumn evening than with a scoop of something sweet and cool.
A perfect finish to a night that celebrated community, flavour and fun.
Food pricing for Pablo’s Burgers rated by Jan and Paul: $$
(Expensive $$$, moderate $$, good value $).
One bite and you’ll know why it’s a favourite.
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Get your hands on the Pablo’s special.
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Juicy, tasty and oh-so-Aussie.
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