Top Bars in Melbourne – Most Viewed (2025)

Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's CBD at 185 Lonsdale Street, StoryVille is a unique cocktail bar and entertainment venue that brings beloved childhood fables to life. Upon entering, guests are transported into a whimsical realm adorned with lush, otherworldly forests and towering mushrooms, creating an atmosphere where reality and fantasy blur. The venue features distinct spaces such as the Mushroom Palace, where glowing toadstools sprout from the walls, and the Enchanted Forest, each offering a unique ambiance inspired by classic literature. StoryVille's cocktail menu is a testament to its literary inspiration, featuring signature drinks like 'Down the Rabbit Hole,' inspired by Alice in Wonderland, and the 'Goblet of Flames,' an homage to Harry Potter. As the evening progresses, StoryVille transforms into a vibrant nightclub, offering two floors of music and entertainment that keep the magic alive until the early hours. Whether you're seeking a nostalgic escape or a lively night out, StoryVille invites you to step into a world where every corner tells a story.

Tucked away on Johnston Street in Fitzroy, The Old Bar is Melbourne’s go-to for late‑night live music and scrappy cultural vitality. Established in 2001 in a circa-1903 building, this venue prides itself on hosting independent punk, rock, folk, country, experimental and hardcore acts nightly - many with free entry on weekdays, and free weekend arvo shows. Step inside and you're greeted by a dingy, poster-laden interior, low stage with stage-diving legends, and a packed crowd fuelled by $10 pints from all 14 taps during happy hour (3pm and 6pm weekdays) and $10 mystery shots. Upstairs, the Old Bar Gallery offers art events and craft nights like “Crotchety Knitwits,” enhancing the community spirit. Owned by a team invested in local culture, the venue supports residencies and underground gigs—from noise and metal to indie-pop and country twang. It’s also active in community initiatives—benefit shows, pub-footy Unicorns team, and advocacy for live-music rights. Open daily from 3 PM to 3 AM, The Old Bar embodies Fitzroy counterculture: dive-bar grit, inclusive scene, tight-knit crowd, and raw authenticity. Whether you're there for a $10 pint, a surprise underground band, or a late-night karaoke/Morbid Monday gig, it’s the beating punk heart of the inner city, quintessentially Melbourne.

Bartronica, located in the basement at 335 Flinders Lane in Melbourne's CBD, is a unique arcade bar that combines vintage gaming with a modern bar atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and consoles like Nintendo 64, all while sipping on craft beers and themed cocktails. The venue also offers private booth bookings for groups, providing an ideal setting for both casual outings and special events.

Tucked down Malthouse Lane in Melbourne’s CBD, Eau de Vie is the purest expression of speakeasy mystique and cocktail theatrics. Upon entering its hidden, unmarked doorway, you’ll find yourself transported to a dimly lit world of 1920s glamour—smoke-drenched ambiance, artful bartenders in waistcoats, and an atmosphere thick with jazzy intrigue. The bar’s cocktail menu is as flamboyant as it is refined. Drinks arrive flamed, smoked, or served in unforgettable vessels—like tequila cocktails in hollowed-out bull’s horns—and accompanied by exquisitely illustrated, playful menus keyed to flavor profiles. Expert staff back the drama with precision; their flair is matched only by the balance and craftsmanship of their creations. Beyond flair, Eau de Vie offers elevated experiences: the secret Whisky Room, revealed behind a bookcase, houses rare whiskies and private bottle lockers; the Library hosts immersive five-course cocktail degustations in intimate style. Food is tailored to complement the liquid artistry—expect tapas-style small plates like oysters, charcuterie, caviar with gin accents—classic yet elevated bar fare woven into the Prohibition-era aesthetic. With its theatrical spirit, hidden architecture, and impeccable execution, Eau de Vie is not just a bar—it’s a living cocktail opera. It may no longer be Melbourne’s best-kept secret, but it still leads the charge in immersive, unforgettable nights out.

Caretaker’s Cottage is a heritage-listed former church caretaker’s cottage turned into Melbourne CBD’s most endearing micro-pub. Hidden behind Wesley Church on Little Lonsdale Street, the brick‑arched 1914 building now thrives as a warm and stylish bar run by the trio from Fancy Free: Rob Libecans, Matt Stirling and Ryan Noreiks. Housing around 50 guests, the vibe is intimate and relaxed—like a house party in an English lounge room. The décor features Tasmanian oak bars, vinyl decks, warm lighting, original cottage wallpapers, and even bedrooms and staircases from the original structure. Drinks rotate monthly and include classics, three signature cocktails, a milk punch, and their famously envy-inducing tap Guinness. The super-chilled martini remains a steady favorite. Expect drinks around A$20–25 each (~US $13–17). Complementing drinks are British-style snacks: Welsh rarebit, smoked trout dip, Falco Bakery pies, and crackers. 1970s vinyl plays atop handcrafted speakers, curated carefully to foster “top tunes & fun times” under a communal energy that blends local office workers, hipsters, and creatives. Opening in 2022, it’s quickly risen to acclaim—named #21 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, Best Bar in Australasia, and awarded the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award—solidifying its reputation as both cozy and world‑class. No phone or bookings—just walk in Tues–Sat from 4 pm to 1 am. Plan to arrive early—you might just snag their super-cold martini and a spot by the grassed courtyard.

Lui Bar, situated on level 55 of Melbourne’s Rialto Towers (also home to Vue de Monde), is a sophisticated cocktail lounge offering panoramic views over the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay. Accessible via the Vue de Monde lift, guests enjoy a refined yet relaxed atmosphere with low-lit interiors, plush seating, and a striking “cloud‑like” chandelier by Mikala Dwyer. The bar, backed by the Vue Group and helmed under the influence of chef Shannon Bennett, features meticulously crafted cocktails using techniques like rotovap and fat‑washing, such as their Velvet Rotor Macadamia Martini and Vodka Pour Over. A curated selection of boutique wines, champagnes and boutique spirits complements the drinks menu. Bar snacks include highlights such as Western Australian marron rolls, wagyu sliders, chickpea fries, fried chicken with osetra caviar and mini lamingtons — all served with precision and flair. Even the menu paper is eco‑friendly: soak it to plant a lemon‑scented bottle‑brush tree. Open Wednesday–Thursday from 5:30 pm, and Friday–Sunday from 3 pm (closed Mon–Tue), it welcomes both reservations (up to 8 people) and walk‑ins. A 10–15% surcharge applies on Sundays and public holidays. With impeccable service, expert mixology and breathtaking views nearly 236 m above ground, Lui Bar is a coveted spot for dating, celebrations or simply savouring Melbourne from above.

Nestled in the vibrant ELLA precinct, Byrdi is the brainchild of Luke Whearty and Aki Nishikura (formerly of Singapore's Operation Dagger). Since opening in 2019, it's gained global recognition—No. 80 on the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2020, climbing to No. 25 by 2024. Byrdi is an immersive homage to Victoria’s bounty, emphasizing seasons, foraging, fermentation, and other cutting-edge techniques. Their in-house "lab" (the “aviary”) is a captivating space where fermentation, distillation, and preservation shape the drinks menu—think banana mint highballs, wattleseed negronis, and chicken-fat-caramel cocktails. The menu evolves often. In Winter '24 “Sonder,” each $30 cocktail draws inspiration from celebrated bartenders around the world, using bergamot, pepperberry leaf, kelp, smoked mole, olive-brine caramel, and more. The food is equally inventive: prawn toast with pepperberry mayo, Riverine blue cheese with honeycomb, hibachi mushrooms—typically served as small, shareable plates. Atmosphere-wise, Byrdi delivers a warm, minimalistic space—wood tones, soft lighting, curved benches—with an understated ambient buzz once filled. Service strikes a polished balance: deeply knowledgeable yet invitingly relaxed—something both patrons and awards panels commend. Pricing is mid-range for its calibre—cocktails average around AUD 19–30, with seasonal tasting menus ($150–220 pp) and bottled offers to take home . Byrdi promises a fluid, sensory experience—where each visit offers a fresh take on what a modern Australian cocktail bar can be.

Inspired by The Thin Man and the golden age of post-prohibition soirées, Nick & Nora’s in Melbourne is a cocktail and champagne destination that drips with cinematic allure. Hidden via Benson Walk on Collins Street, you enter through a stylish arcade into a space where art deco meets modern theatricality: dark woods, velvet upholstery, gold inlays, moody lighting, and portraits that seem to whisper secrets. The layout unfolds like a vintage mansion: you might gravitate toward the Salon for table dining, nurse a champagne flight in the Champagne Parlour, nestle into a plush booth in the Lounge, or bask outdoors on one of the balconies. They proudly showcase over 400 champagnes in a climate-controlled display, plus ornate cocktail stations (some playing with liquid nitrogen) that produce drinks with bold flavours and dramatic flair. Whether it’s a martini, a punch for two (or four), or a themed cocktail named like an old noir character, the drink list is sufficiently decadent. The food matches the mood: oysters, caviar, elevated canapés, charcuterie, imported cheese, cured meats—small luxuries meant to be shared while sipping slowly and soaking up atmosphere. The vibe is upscale, romantic, and perfect for dates, special nights out, or gathering with friends who appreciate design, dram-drinking and attention to detail. Doors open mid-week evenings, build intensity toward the weekend, and offer a full experience—visual, sensorial, and social.

Hope St Radio is a unique fusion of wine bar, restaurant, and community radio station nestled within the Collingwood Yards arts precinct. Established in 2021, it has become a cultural hub where food, music, and art converge.​ The venue boasts an inviting interior adorned with hand-painted murals by artist Alice McIntosh and design elements by architect Peter Cole. Timber booths and a custom Klipsch Khorn sound system by Hot Wax Sound Systems create a warm, auditory-rich environment. The outdoor courtyard, complete with communal tables and fire pits, extends the welcoming atmosphere.​ Culinary offerings are led by chef Ellie Bouhadana, whose menu reflects her Moroccan Jewish heritage. Dishes emphasize seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, featuring items like rigatoni all'amatriciana, focaccia with whipped garlic and tarragon butter, and burrata with artichokes and nettle oil. The wine list focuses on natural and minimal-intervention selections, complemented by a range of local beers and classic cocktails.​ Music is integral to Hope St Radio's identity. Live broadcasts and DJ sets from local artists provide a dynamic soundtrack, enhancing the communal dining experience. The venue operates from Thursday to Sunday, welcoming walk-ins and offering a space where patrons can enjoy quality food, drink, and music in a creatively charged setting.​ Concrete Playgr

Located on Brunswick Street, Black Pearl has been stirring up Melbourne’s bar scene since August 2002, evolving from a family-run restaurant to an internationally acclaimed cocktail haven. Known for nurturing bar talent and pioneering inventive drinks like the famed Death Flip and Martini riffs, it blends craft excellence with a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. The intimate ground-floor offers plush booths, warm lighting, and a rich spirits collection served by knowledgeable bartenders, while upstairs The Attic opens Friday–Saturday for reserved, elevated experiences. Regulars and newcomers mingle over house-made snacks like sausage rolls and an eclectic menu ranging from classic Daiquiris to creative frozen cocktails with locally sourced botanicals. Open Wed–Sun from 5 pm to 3 am (Attic from 6/7 pm late), it's legendary yet welcoming to all.

Tucked discreetly above BeerMash in graffiti-lined Chopper Lane, Above Board is Collingwood's intimate, award-winning cocktail bar. With just 12–16 seats circling a communal American walnut island, the vibe is equal parts dinner party and speakeasy—warm, inviting, and hyper-focused on connection. Founder and bartender Hayden Scott Lambert—veteran of Belfast’s Merchant Hotel and Ireland's “Bartender of the Year”—leads the experience with precision and charm. He intentionally keeps all spirits hidden—in decanters and drawers—so guests focus entirely on thoughtful, flavour-first cocktails crafted from a curated 25-drink list. Expect both flawless classics (Negroni, Old Fashioned, Martini) and bold signatures like the Cherry Rascal (Islay whisky + cherry brandy + absinthe) and HSL Special (Amaro Montenegro + crème de mûre + absinthe + lime). Each drink is handcrafted with care, and Lambert entertains with anecdotal storytelling and witty banter. Since opening in 2016, Above Board has earned a spot on the World's 50 Best Bars list—#44 in 2021, re-entering at #100 in 2024. Reviews highlight the sharp, minimalist design, jewel-box intimacy, and the “Hayden Lambert show” of hospitality. The bar operates walk-in only, open every day from 6 pm to 1 am. Seating fills fast after 7 pm—arrive early for best chances.

Established in 2009, Berlin Bar pays homage to Cold War-era Berlin, a city once divided by an iron wall—Communist East Germany on one side and Capitalist West Germany on the other. True to its namesake, Berlin Bar is split into two distinct spaces: the Soviet-inspired "bunker," dark and austere, and the opulent "salon," a nod to the luxuries of the Democratic West. The bar’s founder, Rene De La Soyo, was born under the rule of General Tito to a Croatian mother and an East German father. After the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet regime, he embraced his newfound freedom in Australia, settling in Melbourne. In 2009, he transformed his apartment above the infamous Eurotrash—another of his creations—into a living tribute to his past. A space where freedom meets oppression, and capitalism collides with communism. Thirteen years later, Berlin Bar remains a testament to these contrasting worlds and the enduring value of freedom. As history unfolds, we are reminded that democracy must never be taken for granted.

Nestled on Chapel Street, Windsor, Jungle Boy is a hidden gem that pairs playful tropical styling with seriously crafted cocktails. From the street, it looks like a modest sandwich shop (“Boston Sub”). But behind the scenes lies a “coolroom door” — pass through the fridge or freezer chamber to access the bar’s secret entrance. Once inside, the décor leans heavily into jungle and tiki themes: tropical plants, hanging greenery, animal motifs, dim lighting, and vibrant accents. The drink menu is adventurous and fun: expect cocktails in tiki mugs, tropical riffs like Zombie and Volcano, and creative presentations. Some snacks & bites (subs, poutine) are available via the sandwich shop side. The bar blends a party aesthetic with lounge comfort — when busy, it hums with energy, but you can also find quieter corners to settle in. Outdoor seating (a garden / beer garden) is another touch, letting patrons soak up an open-air vibe among the greenery. It’s not a large venue; part of the draw is its intimacy and sense of discovery. In reviews, guests praise the cocktails, décor, hidden entrance, and tropical escape feel, though some note smaller drink volumes or wait times at peak. In sum: Jungle Boy is a secret tropical escape in Windsor, combining tiki fantasy, warm hospitality, and cocktail craftsmanship behind a deceptive storefront.

State of Grace is a multi-layered bar / restaurant experience located at 27 King Street, Melbourne CBD. The venue is built in the old Melbourne Steamship Co. building, which grants it character, high ceilings, vintage details, and a sense of history. From the street level, you enter a vibrant restaurant space with European influences in its menu (share plates, classics, elevated dishes) and a cocktail program that marries signature and classic drinks. The décor is eclectic—mirrors, chandeliers, luxe touches, and a bold aesthetic combining old and new. If you find the hidden path, you'll come to Fall From Grace—the subterranean, candlelit cellar bar. It’s accessed via a sliding bookshelf or library façade and a descending staircase. In Fall From Grace, expect a more intimate, speakeasy vibe: vintage lounge seating, moody lighting, darts of old-world charm and inventive cocktails. Above it all is the rooftop terrace—more relaxed in vibe, with city skyline views, shareable plates, pizzas, casual cocktails, beer on tap, and more airy lounge seating. The rooftop is the more casual counterpoint to the more formal downstairs spaces. Overall, State of Grace / Fall From Grace offers a layered journey: from street-level dining to secret cellar cocktail immersions to breezy rooftop sessions. Each level has its tone, letting you choose your pace, light, and mood.

Tucked at the end of Mill Place off Flinders Lane, in the heart of Melbourne’s laneway maze, Mill Place Merchants evokes the spirit of a bygone era. The building itself dates to the 1840s and once housed hat, soap, candle, and meat-preserving factories—layers of industrial history now underpin its velvet and vintage aesthetic. Entry is theatrical: guests first pass through a vintage dressing room, filled with mannequins, sewing paraphernalia, trunks and period wallpaper. A floor-length mirror conceals a sliding door that leads you into the speakeasy. Inside, the décor is romantic and nostalgic: exposed bluestone walls, original timber beams and metal struts, ornate chandeliers, marine lights, vintage rugs, and heirloom furniture. The lighting is low and warm; the mood reserved for intimate conversation and close listening. The cocktail menu is curated by mixologist Giancarlo Mancino and pays homage to classic bartending traditions. Signature and classic cocktails include the Pink Lady (gin, applejack, lime, grenadine), Opera Cocktail (gin, mandarin liqueur, Dubonnet, orange bitters), Russian Spring Punch, Millionaire (bourbon, absinthe, raspberry syrup, lemon, aquafaba), Espresso Martini, Gibson, and others. Garnishes and ingredients are often house-made: cherries macerated in bourbon, pickled onions for Gibsons, etc. To pair with drinks, they offer small shareable bites: devilled eggs, charcuterie boards, pickled vegetables, cocktail sangas (mini sandwiches), fried chicken with bourbon dip, and dessert items like Valrhona chocolate & Islay ganache or rum canelés. The music program enhances the ambiance — live acoustic jazz, blues, swing and crooner evenings, often mingling with the bar’s evolving energy after dark. In effect, Mill Place Merchants is not just a bar but a sensory experience: the entry ritual, the layered décor, the menu, and the performance all combine to evoke a bygone sophistication in Melbourne’s modern night scene.

Tucked down a laneway in Melbourne’s Chinatown, One or Two is a bar with a defined philosophy: minimal, intimate, and intentionally refined. Owned by bartender Andy Chu (formerly of The Everleigh, Above Board, Black Pearl, etc.), it’s his first independent venture, crystallizing his craft and aesthetic. The bar has a modest capacity (24 seats) and a narrow layout, with just a few bar stools and lounge seating. The interior is grounded in the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi — embracing imperfection, transience, and natural materials. Wood, monotone color palettes, subdued lighting, and clean lines define the space. One or Two’s cocktail menu is compact yet considered. Time Out notes it’s divided into sections like All Time (classics), Original, Reimagination, and Guest Bar drinks. Broadsheet adds that there are adventurous options like a Yin Yang Milk Punch, and occasional wildcards (guest bartenders doing “off menu” experiments). Whisky is a key pillar. The whiskey list features small-batch and single malt expressions, particularly from Scotland, Japan, Australia, and elsewhere. They also offer a few wine selections (one red, one white, occasional skin contact / pét-nat) and two beer options. The drinks rotate — menus are refreshed every few months to keep things dynamic, seasonal, and relevant. The vibe is quiet, thoughtful, and slightly mysterious. Time Out describes walking through the unassuming black door and feeling transported to Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa more than Melbourne CBD. Though it’s intimate, the bar occasionally plays R&B or modern tracks to lift things as the night deepens. In its first year, One or Two earned respect in Melbourne’s bar community, placing highly in local bar rankings and attracting international guest shifts. Boothby.