15 Must-Visit Bars in Melbourne: A Guide to the City’s Best Nightlife Spots

Melbourne’s nightlife is as diverse and lively as its streets, and we know the top bars in the city! Whether you want a secret speakeasy, a rooftop getaway, or a snug wine bar, Melbourne offers all this and more. Prepare to enjoy carefully made cocktails, savor top-notch wines, and experience the one-of-a-kind vibes of these essential places. Let’s explore the amazing bar scene in Melbourne!

Our editorial picks for the best bars in Melbourne highlight the diversity and quality of the city’s nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail experience or a lively rooftop atmosphere, these venues stand out as must-visit destinations:

• For a speakeasy-style cocktail haven: Eau De Vie Melbourne
• For world-class cocktails in a friendly atmosphere: Black Pearl
• For a rooftop garden oasis with stunning city views: Loop Roof & Loop Top
• For a luxurious night out with champagne and cocktails: Nick & Nora’s Melbourne
• For an authentic Mediterranean tapas experience with an extensive European wine list: Bar Lourinha

Eau De Vie Melbourne

Tucked away in a laneway, Eau De Vie Melbourne is a hidden gem that transports you back to the Prohibition era the moment you step through its unassuming entrance. Inside, you’re greeted by an intimate setting reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, complete with dim lighting and jazz softly playing in the background. The bar is renowned for its extensive selection of whisk(e)y and meticulously crafted cocktails, making it a haven for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. The experience is heightened by the knowledgeable staff who are more than willing to guide you through their impressive menu or craft something tailored to your taste.

Eau De Vie doesn’t just stop at drinks; it offers a unique dining experience with a menu that includes a five-course whiskey and cocktail degustation dinner. Whether you’re seated at the bar, in a private booth, or in the secretive Whisky Room, every corner of this venue promises an unforgettable night filled with delightful surprises. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to indulge in a sophisticated yet cozy drinking experience.

• Known for: Extensive whiskey selection, cocktail mastery
• Website: https://eaudevie.com.au/melbourne/
• Address: 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1cNWNPdxnYcKWip7

The Everleigh

Walking into The Everleigh feels like going back in time to the best days of cocktail making. This spot in Fitzroy shines with its sophistication, featuring a long marble bar, leather seating, and a design that nods to the classic American cocktail scene. The Everleigh was created by Michael and Zara Madrusan, who are passionate about high standards and knowing everything there is to know about drinks. This shows in every cocktail they serve. Here, making cocktails is seen as an art, with each one made from the best ingredients and a level of attention that’s hard to find anywhere else.

The bar has a cozy and inviting feel, perfect for those important nights out when you want the drink to be the star. Whether you’re a big fan of cocktails or just want to have a well-made drink in a classy place, The Everleigh offers a rich and unforgettable experience. It stands out in Melbourne’s top-notch bar scene and is a place you must check out if you’re after the best in making cocktails.

• Known for: Old-world glamour, cocktail excellence
• Website: http://www.theeverleigh.com/
• Address: 150-156 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC 3065
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nrFF1C2yfhUkc9JGA

Heartbreaker

Unlike the more upscale cocktail bars, Heartbreaker adds a raw and lively energy to Melbourne’s bar scene. Situated right in the city’s center, this bar is all about fun, fantastic music, and fast, quality drinks. It features a jukebox full of rock music from the prime years of 1968 to 1980, creating the perfect backdrop for nights of spontaneous dancing and engaging chats. The bar’s neon lighting and energetic feel attract people who just want to have a good time without any fuss.

The drink menu at Heartbreaker is simple but appealing, with pre-made cocktails known as “the famous four” — Negroni, Martini, Old Fashioned, and Manhattan — all served quickly and with style. Although the selection of tap beer is limited, it is thoughtfully chosen to offer something special for beer lovers. Heartbreaker is the ideal spot for those looking for a relaxed but lively bar experience, focusing on enjoying oneself in great company.

• Known for: Lively atmosphere, pre-batched cocktails
• Website: https://heartbreakerbar.com.au/
• Address: 234A Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bQV5r16ZKNmpsuNB6

Bar Margaux

Bar Margaux is Melbourne’s own version of a late-night French bistro, located right in the lively center of the city. This underground bar brings together the cozy feel of Parisian cafes with the lively vibe of New York, making it a great spot for both early evening drinks and late-night meals. Its menu pays homage to French cooking, with favorites like steak tartare and escargot, and a burger that’s famous for its Wagyu beef and special sauce. The desserts, such as the daily soufflé, are as rich and enjoyable as you’d expect.

However, it’s not just the food that attracts visitors to Bar Margaux; the cocktails are made with a classic touch, and there’s a wide range of French wines available by the glass. Whether you’re looking to relax after a busy day or start your evening with a bang, Bar Margaux provides a welcoming and exciting atmosphere. It’s like a piece of Paris in Melbourne, making it an essential spot for anyone wanting a bit of European flair.

• Known for: French bistro charm, classic cuisine and cocktails
• Website: http://barmargaux.com.au/
• Address: Basement/111 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Kw3reaT25YmR7sx8

Section 8

Located in a transformed shipping container in a Chinatown parking lot, Section 8 stands out from the crowd. This bar has a unique, industrial feel with its walls covered in graffiti and unusual furniture, including the famous milk crate seats. It’s a spot where the unusual setting enhances the creative drink options.

Section 8 is known for its lively atmosphere and offers a range of craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and wines in a relaxed manner. The mood here is very much Melbourne—bold and truly original, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine city experience.

• Known for: Unique laneway location, eclectic vibe
• Website: https://www.section8.com.au/
• Address: 27-29 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cPSsTcHyfTEx8h78A

Goldilocks Bar

Located on top of the Denyers Building, Goldilocks Bar is a magical spot right in the center of Melbourne’s CBD. This rooftop bar is not only known for its amazing views of the city but also for its expertly mixed cocktails.

The bartenders at Goldilocks are experts at both classic and new cocktails, making sure every drink is perfect. The bar’s decoration, with its fun details, matches the playful yet classy drink menu. Whether it’s a bright sunny day or a night under the stars, Goldilocks is the perfect place to enjoy special drinks and tasty snacks.

• Known for: Rooftop views, inventive cocktails
• Website: http://www.goldilocksbar.com.au/
• Address: Level 4, 264 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oVHzP5gU59ZLCwut9

Siglo

Overlooking the grand Parliament House, Siglo is a sophisticated rooftop bar that offers a slice of European elegance. With its Parisian wicker chairs and white linen-covered tables, this bar exudes a classic charm that’s hard to find elsewhere in Melbourne.

Siglo is renowned for its extensive selection of fine wines, spirits, and classic cocktails, making it a popular spot for both after-work drinks and late-night escapades. The bar’s ambiance is further enhanced by the quality of its cigars, available from a well-stocked humidor, providing a perfect complement to any drink chosen from their impressive menu.

• Known for: Elegant rooftop setting, premium cigars
• Website: https://siglobar.com.au/
• Address: 2/161 Spring Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5p3rrwTaUUJrwJu4A

Black Pearl

Black Pearl is a well-known spot in Melbourne’s cocktail world, famous for its outstanding drinks and friendly, relaxed vibe. Situated in the lively Fitzroy neighborhood, this bar has earned a spot among the top bars globally because of its creative cocktails and skilled bartenders.

At Black Pearl, every cocktail is made with care and enthusiasm, whether you’re at the lively bar downstairs or the cozier Attic upstairs. Its inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal place for both serious cocktail lovers and people just wanting to have a good time with friends.

• Known for: World-class cocktails, friendly atmosphere
• Website: https://www.blackpearlbar.com.au/
• Address: 304 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne, VIC 3065
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kS1rZ9spFt4VYobB7

Above Board

Above Board, located in Collingwood, is a cocktail purist’s dream. This intimate venue, hidden away on Smith Street, is known for its meticulous approach to cocktail crafting. The bar’s minimalist design, featuring a central table where guests can watch the magic happen, creates a personal and engaging experience.

Owner and bartender Hayden Lambert is at the forefront, mixing up both classic and signature cocktails with a precision that has garnered international acclaim. The focus here is on quality over quantity, with each drink crafted from the finest ingredients.

• Known for: Exquisite cocktails, intimate atmosphere
• Website: http://www.aboveboardbar.com/
• Address: Level 1/306 Smith Street, Collingwood, Melbourne, VIC 3066
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rTuoJpgCCbMJajPy8

The Imperial Hotel

The Imperial Hotel features one of the top rooftop bars in Melbourne. Right beside the historic Princess Theatre, this place has amazing views of the Melbourne skyline and Parliament House. It’s an ideal place for trying different craft beers, classic cocktails, and filling pub food while experiencing the lively atmosphere of the city.

The Imperial is popular among sports enthusiasts too, thanks to its rooftop jumbotron that shows live sports events in an incredible setting.

• Known for: Rooftop views, live sports screenings
• Website: https://bourkestreetimperial.com/
• Address: 2-8 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GnLndLFcUaGrjFhu5

Union Electric Bar & Rooftop

Hidden in a Chinatown alley, Union Electric Bar & Rooftop is a lively place famous for its gin and rum drinks. The bar’s design reflects its past as the Union Electric Lighting Company, mixing a raw look with contemporary style.

The rooftop is like a green, garden oasis where guests can try creative cocktails made with fresh fruits and fun names. It’s a friendly, easygoing place great for a relaxed meet-up or an exciting evening out.

• Known for: Gin and rum cocktails, lively rooftop atmosphere
• Website: https://unionelectric.com.au/
• Address: 13 Heffernan Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/R2D5bT1sNfQQPd4aA

Nick & Nora’s Melbourne

Nick & Nora’s Melbourne transports guests to the glamorous era of the 1930s with its opulent decor and sophisticated ambiance. Located in the heart of the city, this cocktail and champagne bar is all about luxury, from its extensive champagne list to its expertly crafted cocktails.

The venue is perfect for those looking to indulge in a lavish night out, complete with Champagne towers, Cognac, and caviar. The attention to detail and commitment to quality make Nick & Nora’s a standout in Melbourne’s bar scene.

• Known for: Luxurious ambiance, champagne and cocktails
• Website: http://www.nickandnoras.com.au/melbourne
• Address: 11 Benson Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BjcyDa2Ccj4tmC729

Loop Roof & Loop Top

Loop Roof & Loop Top, twin rooftop bars located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, offer a verdant escape above the urban hustle. These sister venues are celebrated for their lush garden settings and panoramic city views, making them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Loop Roof, the lower of the two, is known for its exotic plant life and comfortable seating, creating a perfect environment for enjoying a range of inventive cocktails and local wines. Loop Top, just one floor up, offers a slightly more intimate vibe with a similar drink menu that’s ideal for date nights or quiet evenings with friends.

• Known for: Stunning city views, garden oasis setting
• Website: http://www.looprooftopbar.com.au/
• Address: 3/23 Meyers Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ADTqW4dFjcCNnqUPA

Bar Lourinha

Bar Lourinha, a gem in Melbourne’s culinary crown, offers a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of the city. This intimate bar is renowned for its Iberian-inspired tapas and a meticulously curated selection of European wines.

The atmosphere at Bar Lourinha is warm and inviting, with decor that transports you to a quaint eatery in Lisbon or Barcelona. The menu features a variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing, from salted cod croquettes to grilled veal tongue, all paired beautifully with their extensive wine list.

• Known for: Mediterranean tapas, extensive European wine list
• Website: http://www.barlourinha.com.au/
• Address: 37 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/x3ybbG3GgKzuJKjj9

The Melbourne Cellar Door

The Melbourne Cellar Door is a great place for those who love drinks, offering more than 60 types of wine by the glass and over 130 kinds of craft beers. Situated in the busy South Wharf area, this bar mixes old-fashioned charm with a high-class choice of drinks.

The menu has food from all over the world and is made for sharing, perfect for hanging out with friends. Whether you love wine or are big on craft beer, The Melbourne Cellar Door has a friendly vibe for trying out different tastes from across the globe.

• Known for: Wide selection of wines and craft beers, global food menu
• Website: https://www.melbournecellardoor.com.au/
• Address: 25 Dukes Walk, South Wharf VIC 3006
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tW2c8APz4Lz9h5GF7

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours for Eau De Vie Melbourne?

Eau De Vie Melbourne typically opens from 5 PM to 1 AM from Sunday to Thursday, and from 4 PM to 1 AM on Friday and Saturday.

Can I make a reservation at Black Pearl?

Yes, Black Pearl accepts reservations. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

Is there a dress code for Nick & Nora’s Melbourne?

Nick & Nora’s Melbourne has a smart casual dress code. It’s advisable to dress neatly; avoid sportswear, thongs, and overly casual attire.

Are there any bars from the list that offer outdoor seating?

Yes, Loop Roof & Loop Top offers extensive outdoor seating in a rooftop garden setting, providing panoramic views of the city.

Do any of the bars on the list specialize in a particular type of drink?

Yes, Union Electric Bar & Rooftop specializes in gin and rum cocktails, offering a wide range of options in these categories.