Who in Melbourne doesn’t love discovering new bars? Whenever I chat with fellow Melburnians, they always have glowing reviews of their favourite spots. Even friends from Sydney can’t resist popping over to soak up Melbourne’s vibrant bar scene!
Feeling bored with the same old haunts? This guide is perfect for you! Melbourne isn’t just about world-class coffee; its bar scene is a rich tapestry of experiences, each venue brimming with its own unique charm and character.
Here, you won’t find a monotonous string of pubs; instead, Melbourne’s bars weave a tapestry of experiences, each with its own unique charm and character.
In the coming sections, I’ll delve deeper into some of the city’s most celebrated bars, exploring their unique vibes and signature offerings. I’ll also provide insider tips on navigating the ever-evolving scene and ensure your Melbourne bar crawl is an unforgettable experience.
At A Glance
- 23 Best Bars In Melbourne You Won’t Want To Miss
- 1. The Everleigh
- 2. Bar Margaux
- 3. Union Electric Bar & Rooftop
- 4. Beneath Driver Lane
- 5. Heartbreaker
- 6. Bartronica
- 7. Bar Romantica
- 8. Young and Jacksons
- 9. Death or Glory
- 10. Whisky & Alement
- 11. Section 8
- 12. Above Board
- 13. Bird’s Basement
- 14. Siglo
- 15. Royal Standard Hotel
- 16. The Lui Bar
- 17. The Keys
- 18. Beermash
- 19. Carlton Wine Room
- 20. Caz Reitop’s Dirty Secrets
- 21. Dom’s Social Club
- 22. Waxflower
- 23. The Palm Royale
23 Best Bars In Melbourne You Won’t Want To Miss
1. The Everleigh
source: The Everleigh
Step back in time to a bygone era of sophistication at The Everleigh. This classic cocktail bar oozes elegance with its plush ottomans, dark wood panelling, and historical portraits lining the walls which are reminiscent of the 1920s.
I highly recommend going by the bartender’s choice by choosing the flavour profile of your drink. You’ll be in for a nice surprise!
Opening hours: 5pm - 1am, Daily Location
2. Bar Margaux
For a touch of Parisian flair, Bar Margaux is your haven. This intimate wine bar boasts an extensive selection of wines, perfect for those seeking a relaxed and refined atmosphere.
For a sophisticated evening with friends, try the cheese and charcuterie plates. And while you’re there, impress them by ordering the steak tartare, steak frites to share and end off the perfect night with a creme brulee.
Opening hours: 5pm - 12am, closed on Sunday Location
3. Union Electric Bar & Rooftop
When the Melbourne sun is shining, there’s no better place to be than Union Electric Bar & Rooftop. This stylish bar features exposed brick walls and a sprawling rooftop garden, ideal for soaking up the city views.
My favourite drinks there were definitely the pandan coconut and the espresso martini. Otherwise they also have an extensive gin menu to choose from!
Opening hours: 5pm - 1am, Daily Location
4. Beneath Driver Lane
Descend into a world of mystery and intrigue at Beneath Driver Lane. This speakeasy-style bar is hidden in a basement location, adding to its clandestine charm.
Here, the focus is on exceptional cocktails and spirits, with French bites providing a delightful accompaniment. The must order here is definitely from the whiskey bar, the old fashioned is by far the best.
Live music, Blues in the Basement, running on most Thursday to Saturday nights adds another layer of atmosphere to this hidden gem.
Opening hours: 5pm - 1am, closed on Mondays Location
5. Heartbreaker
If you’re looking to unleash your inner rockstar, Heartbreaker is your destination. Bring on your own tunes with a jukebox, where you can sing your heart out.
This lively bar pulsates with energy, fueled by a wide selection of beers and whiskeys. The rock ‘n’ roll theme sets the tone for a night of revelry, with the bar transforming into a party zone as the night progresses.
Definitely hit up the New York style pizza, which goes by the whole or by the slice. And what’s pizza without a beer on tap?
Opening hours: 5pm - 1am, Daily Location
6. Bartronica
Calling all retro gamers! This bar fuses classic arcade games with a stellar drinks menu.
This is a great place to go with friends, or even by yourself if you love old-school video games. They have plenty of arcade machines like Donkey Kong, Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Pac-man, N64 areas and plenty of seating all round. You can even play games while eating their renowned nachos and pizza and sipping on their beer on tap.
Opening hours: 4.30pm - 11pm, closed from Sunday to Tuesday Location
7. Bar Romantica
For a taste of authentic Melbourne, head to Bar Romantica in Brunswick East.
This local favourite is known for its infectious atmosphere, always buzzing with patrons spilling out onto the sidewalk. While you’re there, order the burrata to start with, then move on to the pasta or the lamb ragu. To finish it off, they have the best tiramisu!
The drinks list is creative and ever-evolving, best known for their seasonal wines and cocktails.
Opening hours: 5.30pm - 11pm, closed on Monday and Tuesday Location
8. Young and Jacksons
source: Young and Jacksons
This historic pub is a Melbourne institution, offering a traditional pub experience with a modern twist. It is located in perfect view of Flinders station, which is not only a central station, it is also an urban transportation hub to and from the suburbs. It is Australia’s oldest railway station and is an architectural legend.
While you’re there, be sure to watch out for Chloe, the painting of a naked woman, which resides as part of the Heritage Register in Young and Jacksons.
They are best known for their Carlton Draughtunpasteurised tank beer fresh from the brewery.
Opening hours: 10am - 12am, daily Location
9. Death or Glory
Venture into the heart of Prahran and discover Death or Glory. This American-style whiskey bar is a haven for bourbon lovers, boasting an impressive selection from across the globe. This will pair perfectly with their burger and fries, even their vegan options!
The dimly lit interior and leather booths create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for savouring a smoky whiskey and engaging in conversation.
Opening hours: 4pm - 1am, daily Location
10. Whisky & Alement
Calling all whiskey lovers! This spot boasts over 700 varieties of whiskey, along with a knowledgeable staff to guide you through the world of this amber spirit.
Be sure to sign up for their whisky classes and tasting session, check out their boilermaker and have a look at their distillery!
Opening hours: 4pm - 1am, daily Location
11. Section 8
Dive into a world of wonder at this quirky bar, inspired by cult classic movies. The bar itself is a shipping container and all the seats are packing crates. Themed cocktails and decor will have you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a movie set.
Hidden away in an alleyway, surrounded by the creative street art, this place is wonderful to chill and enjoy reasonably priced wines!
Opening hours: 12pm - 11pm, daily Location
12. Above Board
Collingwood’s Above Board is a playground for craft beer enthusiasts.
This bar features a constantly rotating selection of local and international brews, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to try out the Back Burner, something like an espresso martini, but better. It has a blackberry, liquorice-like flavour that’s unique to this bar!
The knowledgeable staff is passionate about beer and happy to guide you through the ever-changing list.
Opening hours: 6pm - 1am, daily Location
13. Bird’s Basement
This intimate jazz bar is a hidden gem, offering live music and a sophisticated atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends who appreciate good music.
Be sure to catch Spyro Gyra on Saturday nights and order their awesome tapas!
Opening hours: 6pm - 11pm, Wednesdays to Saturdays Location
14. Siglo
For a touch of Spanish flair, Siglo in the CBD is the place to be. This tapas bar boasts an extensive selection of Spanish wines and delectable pintxos, the perfect combination for a relaxed evening of socialising.
Do try the whiskey float which lets you taste 3 delicious whiskeys for $40. If you’re a smoker, they have an extensive cigar menu. The staff are extremely knowledgeable on whiskey, wine and cigars.
The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make Siglo a local favourite for a reason.
Opening hours: 5pm - 3am, closed Sunday and Monday Location
15. Royal Standard Hotel
This heritage-listed pub is a North Melbourne icon, with a beer garden, bistro, and function rooms. It’s a great spot for a casual drink or a bite to eat.
Be sure to order their famous gnocchi, arancini balls and chicken parma!
Opening hours: 11am-10pm, closed Monday Location
16. The Lui Bar
This intimate cocktail bar focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients in their innovative creations. Expect a unique and flavorful experience. The vodka pour over is a must try and a nice take on an espresso martini.
Opening hours: 3pm - 1am, closed Sunday to Tuesday Location
17. The Keys
Head to Preston for this laid-back bar with a focus on natural wines and local produce. The ever-changing menu keeps things interesting, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.
They are famous for their white russian, and they even have a vegan one on tap! They have arcade games and bowling lanes as well if you fancy a game with your drink.
Opening hours: 11am-11pm, daily Location
18. Beermash
Craft beer enthusiasts will rejoice at Beermash, Collingwood. They offer a vast selection of local and international brews on tap and in cans, along with knowledgeable staff to help you choose.
With over 20 beers on tap and fridges full of options, I can’t imagine not finding the right drink for you!
Opening hours: 12pm - 1am, daily Location
19. Carlton Wine Room
This institution is a haven for wine lovers, offering an extensive list from all over the world. Knowledgeable staff and a relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to explore new wines.
Be sure to try the anchovy, stracciatella and their very delicious pork croquette!
Opening hours: 3pm - 11pm, daily Location
20. Caz Reitop’s Dirty Secrets
source: Caz Reitop’s Dirty Secret
Speakeasy vibes meet industrial-chic at this Collingwood bar. The focus here is on creative cocktails and a mysterious atmosphere. Be sure to try their espresso martini!
Opening hours: 5pm-1am, closed on Monday Location
21. Dom’s Social Club
This lively bar in the heart of the city is a great place to see and be seen. Expect DJs, live music, and a wide range of drinks. You must try the pizza, especially the pizza with mortadella!
Opening hours: 5pm - 11pm, closed Sunday to Tuesday Location
22. Waxflower
Head to Brunswick for this sustainable bar with a focus on local ingredients and environmental responsibility. Their innovative cocktails are as delicious as they are ethical.
While you’re there, try the octopus and eggplant! They have the most exceptional texture and the best I’ve had.
Opening hours: 5 - 11pm, closed on Monday and Tuesday Location
23. The Palm Royale
Wrap up your Melbourne bar crawl in style at The Palm Royale in Richmond.
This opulent venue transports you to a bygone era of Hollywood glamour, complete with plush décor and vintage cocktails. You must order the Flower Whisper cocktail, it is a work of art in itself and super delicious!
Live music and DJs keep the energy high, making it a perfect spot for a night to remember.
Opening hours: 5pm - 1am, closed Sunday to Tuesday Location
Melbourne’s bars are a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit. They are the beating heart of the city’s nightlife, a place where locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate life, share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, raise a glass to Melbourne, the city where every sip tells a story, and embark on your own adventure through its captivating bar scene. You never know what hidden gem or unforgettable experience awaits you around the next corner.
This list merely scratches the surface of Melbourne’s incredible bar scene.
With new and exciting venues popping up all the time, there’s always something new to discover. So, grab your friends, set out on a bar crawl adventure, and let Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife work its magic on you.
If you’re looking for more culinary experiences, consider dining at Sydney’s best restaurants or take a road trip around Australia to discover the best restaurants!
