Best bars in Melbourne

28 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Most people recommend The Last Chance, a rock bar opposite Queen Victoria Market in the Melbourne CBD. Many people point to its live bands, several mention free gigs, and many find the drinks and food budget-friendly. A few describe it as a dive bar with no frills, and one patron says it is quiet even when bands play and fills up late at night. Another patron finds it cliquey.

Melbourne CBD

27 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Most people recommend The Retreat Hotel on Sydney Road in Brunswick. Several mention the beer garden, and two praise the music. One patron says it was their second home, another says they love its dark, no-frills feel, and one recalls a retro lounge-room feel from the 00s and is unsure it still holds. A regular says the only TV they have noticed was showing a quiz show.

Brunswick

24 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend the Great Northern Hotel in Carlton, and a few patrons praise its food, beers and beer garden. A couple of people describe it as a Freo pub, and one patron warns it can be packed out on match days. Caveats: one patron finds it less relaxed than the Rose in Fitzroy and says people who dislike AFL may not enjoy the usual footy crowds, and another finds the indoor areas less appealing than the beer garden.

Carlton

23 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Royston in Richmond, and many praise the food, including a kangaroo dish and a parma. A few patrons point to the beer selection, though one of them has not visited in years, and a separate patron says the craft range has shrunk. Two patrons raise concerns: one found the sticky date pudding less impressive than others and wanted more sauce, while another says hand pumps were removed.

Richmond

23 people recommend, 9 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Heartbreaker is a rock bar with a pool table and pizza by the slice, and most people recommend it, with many saying the rock music is a draw. Many people also say it feels staged, more like a film set than a real dive, and one visitor finds it fine but very busy, hot and loud. One patron describes it as a dive, another says it is not one and calls it craft-beer focused.

Melbourne CBD

19 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Overall, people recommend The Charles Dickens Tavern, and a few commenters describe its atmosphere as calm and separate from everyday life. A few patrons praise the food and beer, and one finds the pints budget-friendly and notes plenty of TVs. A few commenters link the pub to football supporters, and one says it suits supporters of clubs other than Liverpool. Caveats: it is in a basement, one patron wishes it had a beer garden, one patron found an Origin night okay, and one commenter suggests calling ahead to check whether league can be shown.

Collins St

17 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend this Footscray taproom, and a few commenters say its brewhouse pizza is good. A couple of commenters describe a wide range of beers, two note the non-alcoholic beers are kept on tap, and one praises the non-alcoholic stout. One patron says it is easy to get around for walker and wheelchair users, with a flat, wide entrance and accessible toilets, though it can get busy. One commenter found the pour on a hand-pumped stout needed work.

Footscray

17 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Mona Castle Hotel in Seddon is widely recommended as a local pub. One commenter describes a proper pub with good beer, food and a covered beer garden, another patron calls the food excellent, and one commenter praises the tasteful renovation that keeps its old charm. On the downside, two patrons say it has become gentrified, and another wishes the horse and greyhound racing were not shown on its screens. One patron was not a fan after a reserved sign appeared on their table soon after ordering, and another would move a plant away from the outdoor TV.

Seddon

15 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Mr West in Footscray is a bar that many people recommend, and two visitors link it with craft beer, with one saying it sits alongside the city's best craft venues. Several people point to its varied beer range, two mention tasting paddles, and two say pizza from a nearby spot can be ordered in. One visitor says it brings in plenty of international beers through its guest events, and one thinks its function area could suit an event. Two visitors praise its interior and atmosphere.

Footscray

15 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Caretakers Cottage, with one commenter calling it exceptional and another calling it pretty cool. A few commenters point to it for cocktails, and one advises arriving early to avoid a queue. One commenter who has not been there says it is reportedly good, and another calls it a must-visit. Several commenters simply name it without giving an opinion.

15 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Hats and Tatts is a bar in the Melbourne CBD that many people suggest, and two visitors describe it as dive-y. One visitor praises its backbar and decent food, while another says the rooftop is better than expected. One visitor notes inside and outside areas with a wide range of drinks. One patron warns it is too dive-like to suit a first date.

Melbourne CBD

14 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend The Tote in Collingwood, and many mention its live bands. Two visitors link it with punk shows, and two others call it a dive bar; one visitor says it is heavily covered in stickers. One says it can feel relaxed depending on who is on stage, while another says it works well for loud acts but they prefer smaller rooms.

Collingwood

14 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Whiskey and Alement, and one visitor calls it the greatest whiskey bar around. One patron says it is a relaxing place to unwind, where on each visit more people seem to be drinking solo than in company. Another visitor calls it small and chill, and a different one who has only walked by says it looks like a quiet spot worth trying. One visitor rates it highly for whisky, but notes it can get noisy when full.

14 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Fox Hotel, and a few commenters call it great. One patron describes the monthly Beers for Queers night as busy and full of performances, saying the food is good if you arrive early, though the free nights are packed at peak hours. One commenter who names the Collingwood pub mentions a hand pump, another mentions coin-operated pool tables, and a third notes it holds gender-inclusive events. A separate commenter is unsure what it is like without that event.

Collingwood

14 people recommendvia r/melbourne

The Mitre Tavern is on Bank Place off Collins Street in the CBD. Most people who mention it recommend it, and two patrons call it an old-style English pub. A few describe it as busy on Friday nights and after work, and two patrons say the food is good, including the steakhouse and the downstairs bistro's T-bone.

CBD Bank Place Off Collins St

14 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Section 8 is a CBD bar on Tattersalls Lane that many people recommend, and a few count it among their favourites. Several praise its music, a few call it cool, and two say it gets busy. On the downside, one commenter notes it serves no food, and another, judging by its look, finds it small and a little run-down. One commenter warns of heavy smoking and a strong smoke smell and says it feels more like a club than an intimate spot, while some feel it has faded, though one of them says its Filipino nights are fun.

CBD

13 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend Co-Conspirators, and many name it among Brunswick's breweries; one says it is a short walk from Brunswick Station. One commenter thinks its Australian-style beers are well made, and another finds the place laid-back and not too rowdy. A couple of visitors mention a free pool table, but one visitor is unsure, saying the beers have seemed mostly IPAs on their visits.

Brunswick

13 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Overall, commenters recommend this North Melbourne pub, and one calls it the real deal. One commenter describes a friendly rock pub with a beer garden and reasonable meals, and another says it has an old-fashioned feel. One commenter visits it now and then, another counts it among their go-to pubs, and another has been drinking there for years. One commenter, though, says it is mostly for locals and advises visitors not to go.

North Melbourne

13 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/solotravel

Many people recommend Berlin Bar, and a couple of people say its cocktails are good. Several people find it a fun, cool spot, and one places it in a laneway running off Little Bourke Street, close to Chinatown. One visitor describes a Cold War theme split into a more luxurious side and a more brutalist one. One visitor feels it suits a short visit more than a whole night out.

13 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend the Imperial Hotel, and several name it as a place to watch Premier League soccer, with Liverpool, Tottenham and City supporters mentioned. A couple of visitors mention the sound, though one says it may be missing on some games, and one praises the food. Two visitors are unimpressed, with one calling it generic and another calling it the worst, while one hopes it isn't the best but cannot name a better general pub.

Bourke Street

12 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Lulie Tavern as a bar to try, and a couple of commenters say they love it or had a great time there. A commenter says it seems pretty chill, and another suggests arriving a little before late afternoon to sit up on the rooftop, since Friday afternoons tend to be busy. A commenter says the Abbotsford venue has a ramp and an elevator up to its rooftop. Another commenter says some shows are on, though they have not been in for a while.

Abbotsford

12 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Embla is a CBD wine bar that many people recommend, and a few say it also serves good food. One patron says the bar seats suit a solo diner, and one commenter adds that it can get a bit busy.

CBD

12 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend it, and a couple name it as a stop on a walkable brewery crawl through Abbotsford, Fitzroy and Collingwood. One patron says the space is large, the food is decent and the selection is broad. Crowd age draws mixed reports: one patron says it skews toward people in their thirties and forties, while another, who had been there, found the crowd younger and left because it felt too young for them.

Collingwood

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Most commenters recommend this CBD bar, and one commenter says its rooftop has great vibes. Two commenters suggest trying its vinyl or music room, and one patron prefers that room to the rooftop for its vibes. Another says it suits going out with a partner. One patron found it crowded and a bit too posh, though they still enjoyed the night.

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Bodriggy, and a couple of people include it in brewery visits. At the Collingwood location, one visitor who held a weekday event praised the food and drink packages. Two visitors mention the upstairs room with its own bar. People place it in Collingwood and Abbotsford, and one person places it in Fitzroy North, so check the address before you go.

Collingwood

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne

The Rainbow Hotel is a Fitzroy pub that many commenters recommend. A couple of commenters describe it as welcoming or as having a great vibe, and one patron mentions its great locals. Two commenters praise the food, and one mentions a steak night. One commenter points out that it is not a gay-specific venue.

Fitzroy

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne

The Standard Hotel is a Fitzroy pub that many people recommend. A few people praise its beer garden, and two others point to its atmosphere, including a youthful crowd and a great vibe. One visitor thinks it is probably the best option in the inner city, and another describes it as charming and rich in history.

Fitzroy

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Gem, and a few of them mention country music or acts. A couple of patrons mention Tuesday nights, with one calling the honky tonk night authentic, and one patron says they found line dancing on a Friday. One patron lists it among the no-frills pubs they love, and another says they quite like the Collingwood pub.

Collingwood

11 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Gin Palace, and one person lists it among classy, intimate cocktail bars. One patron who has visited says it has tables for two set around a corner and is not too loud, and another visitor found it lovely. Several people simply name it as a suggestion, and a few list it with no verdict.

11 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend The Old Bar in Fitzroy, and many link it with music, from punk to rock and roll. Two patrons describe it as a dive-style spot with a rough edge, and one patron recommends its free karaoke night, where guests can sing. One patron cautions it has the same issues as another venue, while another person disagrees and still loves it.

Fitzroy

11 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend the Footscray Hotel, a pub in Footscray, and a few commenters call it a dive. One commenter calls it the top pub nationally and says no other pub is quite like it. One patron who has visited says it is run-down in a way that suits its community vibe, but notes there is no food and only a limited tap list. Another says it looks off-putting from the street but is very welcoming once inside, and a commenter notes it is a bit of a trip out west.

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Siglo, and two commenters who name the Spring Street location both point to its cigars and cocktails. One describes it as an upmarket rooftop cigar lounge with a great wine list, another praises the outlook over the leafy street and older buildings, and a couple of others suggest the rooftop for a nice night out. One regular patron who has been going for years calls it their go-to for gents' nights. Caveats come from one patron who finds the cigar smoke a drawback and another who has faced long lines on past visits, finds it a little far to walk and thinks the lines can be long.

Spring Street

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Above Board, and a few of them point to its cocktails, with one saying it currently makes the best aviation. A visitor rates the drinks and atmosphere highly and says the room is small, while one patron calls the secret menu outstanding. Someone else says the Collingwood location is also good. Another visitor feels it sits somewhat far north of the CBD, though it is still worth making the journey for.

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend the Napier pub in Fitzroy, and a few say its sticky date pudding is good. One commenter says the food, wine and beer are good, and another prefers the Marquis of Lorne's sticky date pudding. One commenter recommends the parma but noted there was no dessert menu.

Fitzroy

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend the Edinburgh Castle Hotel in Brunswick, and one patron says it has plenty of regular beer on tap. A few people mention odd stickers in the men's toilets, which one patron enjoys.

Brunswick

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend 1806. One patron describes a broad choice of drinks and a refined, club-like feel that is also open to women, and another calls it classy and intimate. One visitor says they loved it, and a patron who has visited a few times finds it lovely. A few others name it without giving a verdict.

Exhibition St

10 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Rocky Ridge, a brewery in Brunswick East, and commenters suggest it as a stop on walkable brewery crawls. One patron praises its wide range of beers and rates its fried chicken sandwich very highly. One commenter ranks it as likely Melbourne's top brewery at present.

Brunswick

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Commenters recommend Beermash, a bar on Smith Street in Collingwood, as a good place for a drink. One commenter describes its selection as excellent, and another says it suits sitting down over a drink. One commenter suggests ending a Smith Street walk there, and another says it works well on nights other than Saturdays. One commenter last visited a long time ago and cannot speak to its current offering.

Smith Street

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend Sherlock Holmes on Collins Street, and many praise its atmosphere. One person describes a basement, old-style pub feel. One patron finds the food generous and old-school, but says it can be loud on Friday nights. Another person has not visited in a long while, so is unsure how it is now.

Collins St

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Bar Ampere, and one commenter praises its drinks highly. One patron calls it a classic and another calls it a gem, while a couple of commenters describe it as a good option. Another commenter says the food is good as well.

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Bar Josephine is a bar on Barkly Street in Footscray. Commenters recommend it, and one describes it as focused on craft beer. A couple suggest it as a stop on a night out. One commenter notes a varied range but says it does not do tasting paddles.

Footscray

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Yah Yahs is a Smith Street bar that most people recommend, and a few people describe it as queer friendly. A few people say it is a good time, and a few point to Thursday nights, when the crowd leans queer. A couple of people see it as a young, lively night out, and one patron recommends it for late-night drinks. One patron says it is more clubby than other spots nearby.

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Naked for Satan, a few name its Fitzroy location, and several point to its rooftop. One patron says the rooftop offers good skyline views, and another commenter says the rooftop feels European. One diner says the pintxos rank among Melbourne's best bar food and that its multiple levels and function bookings suit big groups, though that is one diner's experience.

Fitzroy

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend Spleen, a bar at the top of Bourke Street near Parliament station in Melbourne's CBD. A commenter points to a pool table alongside a rock-and-roll feel for a grittier night, and one patron mentions stand-up nights on Mondays and rates its Melbourne Black on tap above Guinness. Early evenings are usually quiet, one patron says, and a commenter calls it a final stop for people who won't call it a night. Some describe a dive-bar feel: two commenters call it a dive bar outright, though one says it felt like one only when they stayed very late.

Melbourne CBD

9 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend this Fitzroy pub. One visitor who loves it says it has not changed for years, and one patron says the atmosphere is consistently great, though evenings can get crowded and a function space is available for bigger groups. One commenter groups it with unpretentious, dog-friendly inner-north pubs, and another notes its coin-operated pool tables.

Fitzroy

9 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Storyville is a bar in an alleyway at the corner of Lonsdale and Russell in the CBD. Many people recommend it, and one visitor praises its concept and cocktails, while another patron who went for cocktails describes a cozy atmosphere and a fireplace. Another visitor says the vibe is good, a table can likely be found, and people-watching is a big part of the appeal, though they add that it is not a chill spot.

9 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Several commenters name One or Two among their suggestions, and two of them praise the cocktails. One patron says the bar doesn't expect people to linger and describes the space as small and intimate. A commenter places it near Chinatown, and another warns the bar is tiny.

9 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Luwow, with two diners pointing to its tiki theme and one patron liking its retro American surf-style atmosphere. One patron says it is a whiskey den for whiskey fans, another calls it wonderful, and one says the food is underrated. One patron found it too small to get into, with no balcony and a laneway location that limits people-watching, and says it does not take hen groups or larger parties.

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Goldy's Tavern in Collingwood, and one commenter names it their top pick among the Collingwood options they list. One patron recommends it for the parma and praises the fairy bread pudding, though they note the pub does not serve sticky date pudding. One commenter describes it as seeming relaxed, and another points to a large selection of games to play.

Collingwood

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Lincoln Hotel in Carlton. Several praise its good beer range and pub food, and a couple praise its relaxed atmosphere, and one mentions its community feel. One patron finds the chips too salty.

Carlton

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Park Hotel in Abbotsford, and one says its food, beers and atmosphere are great. One Abbotsford visitor feels it used to be a favourite but is moving toward pastel, polished styling, though the beer garden remains.

Abbotsford

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Carlton Wine Room in Carlton. A few people speak well of the food, with one mentioning a cheese selection and croquettes. One person suggests booking a private room, and another person says their family's baby shower there was excellent.

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Gales, and two describe it as part of a brewery crawl in Brunswick and Brunswick East. One person lays out a route that reaches it on Lygon Street, and two more agree with that route, with one saying it suits craft breweries specifically. Another calls it pretty cool, and one patron notes it can be overlooked unless you plan ahead.

Lygon St

8 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Foreigner is a craft brewery in Brunswick, and many people recommend it among the local breweries. Several people include it in a walkable crawl, and one commenter says it sits within walking distance of Brunswick Station.

Brunswick

8 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Goldilocks, and a couple call it lovely, though one found it chilled. One patron says they have been going there for years, with a friend and on their own. One person cautions that its table service makes it unlikely to suit meeting new people.

8 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Cherry Bar, and one patron who spent a whole night there calls it the cutest spot in the CBD. One patron says live bands play upstairs and a commenter says it is a good spot to socialise. Two commenters, neither naming a location, say it has changed: one who liked the original version calls the current bar poor, while another says it is still enjoyable but less punk than before. One patron who has been to Frankie's says Cherry, along with other Melbourne rock bars, does not fully match Frankie's, though a commenter who misses Frankie's lists it among the closest alternatives.

CBD

8 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

People recommend The Rose Hotel in Fitzroy as cosy and relaxed, with multiple screens for watching the game. One patron finds it more chill than the Great Northern, especially on Sundays, and another says the taps include craft beers. Be aware that one patron finds the food a bit subpar, and one visitor advises against going unless you are already at the pub, warning it can get packed.

Fitzroy

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Catfish on Gertrude Street. One patron says the drinks are decent and praises the Philly cheesesteaks, and another likes its Wednesday wings. One patron finds the beer selection great and says it comes close to a dive-bar feel.

Fitzroy

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

The Brunswick Green is a pub in Brunswick with a beer garden, and many people recommend it. One commenter says the crowd feels youthful, with people coming and going, so starting a conversation would not be hard. Another suggests the beer garden for its friendly, grungy feel, like Frankie's. One commenter says it is busy with people in their late twenties on Saturday nights.

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend the Corner Hotel in Richmond, on Swan Street, with a few pointing to its live music, including one who says it often hosts overseas punk bands. One patron describes it as dark and no-frills, and another finds it unpretentious with a beer garden. One commenter mentions the rooftop, another mentions free pool, and one more suggests going before football games, when it gets busy.

Richmond

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Drunken Poet, which two people place in North Melbourne and one places in West Melbourne. One person says it has an authentic Irish pub atmosphere, and another likes its unpretentious, no-frills feel and good pints. One patron suggests a Guinness here before heading home, and one person mentions free open mic nights on certain Thursdays each month.

North Melbourne

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Union Electric for drinks. One patron says they love the hungry ghost and like the vibe, while another rates its apple-and-spirit drink very highly and describes it as a small laneway spot. One commenter says it suits anyone after tiki or rum-focused drinks, and a different commenter places it in Chinatown and notes a small rooftop and plenty of cocktails. One commenter notes the pick depends on the vibe a group likes.

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Cafe Gummo in Thornbury, and several mention its music. One patron mentions a Sunday reggae night but is unsure of the schedule. A few people call it a dive bar, and a couple of people say the crowd is warm or easygoing.

Thornbury

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Many people recommend Whiskey Den, a Melbourne bar. A couple say it suits whisky drinkers, and one visitor praises its whisky selection and describes a cozy upper floor. One patron finds it pretty good for people drinking alone, since it feels intimate enough for conversation. The main caveat is that one visitor notes finding a seat gets tricky when going late.

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Keeper, a brewery in Brunswick East, and a few include it in brewery crawls with nearby breweries such as Rocky Ridge, Gale's and Bridge Road. One person suggests it for fans of pilsners. Another thinks its upstairs room could suit a particular kind of event.

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend Carlton Club, and a few describe its dive-bar character with affection, while one patron fondly recalls the video jukebox and pool table. One patron mentions a Friday burger and the happy hour, and another mentions a great view and great people, though they aren't sure the friends they brought along enjoyed it. Two people describe that dive-bar feel as belonging to the past.

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many visitors recommend the Victoria Hotel in Brunswick. One patron says screens on every wall make the game easy to see from anywhere, and the taps are stocked with local beers. Two visitors praise the food, and one patron who has eaten there says the potato cakes are the best they have had.

Brunswick

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Neighbourhood Wine is a wine bar that many people recommend, and a few commenters call it a favourite or top-notch. One patron who visited the Fitzroy North branch says the wine range is excellent and the ambience is really nice, though the cheese offering is small. One commenter lists it among inner-suburb wine bars they found really nice.

Fitzroy North

7 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend Eau de Vie. One commenter says it is incredible if you want whiskey and places it on Malthouse Lane. Another calls it classy and intimate, and a third puts it among cocktail spots in city laneways. A few people name it without giving reasons.

7 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Whitehart in the CBD, and one patron who has celebrated birthdays there says they love it. One commenter calls it pleasant and not overly loud, and one patron who went with colleagues found the upstairs nicer and calmer. Crowd levels vary: one commenter expects it to be busy, another expects it to be quiet, and one patron says it is either quiet or packed. A commenter says smoking is common there and that it suits dancing with strong DJs, but it feels more like a club than an intimate bar.

CBD

7 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend The Royal Hotel on Punt Road, opposite the MCG, as a good pub. One patron praises the generous jugs, another suggests it suits a relaxed midweek lunchtime pint, and a commenter feels it draws a classier crowd of footy fans. Two commenters are less positive: one pushes back on the jug quality, and another singles it out as the one Richmond spot to skip for the game.

Punt Road Opposite The Mcg

7 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Vic Hotel in Footscray, and one patron counts it among their favourites locally. One patron likes its square bar, another says it keeps some grit and suits a rougher vibe, and one patron finds it a quiet spot for a solo meal. The main caveat is the food, which two patrons criticise, including the steak, and one of them also finds dogs tolerated in the front bar off-putting.

Footscray

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Rooks Return is a Fitzroy bar that several people recommend, and one visitor describes it as a dive bar with an artsy feel. Two visitors mention its jazz nights, and one says the live jazz band plays every Wednesday, while another patron points to a Thursday night session. One patron says it suits country dancing nights, but two visitors feel it works only on certain nights, so the night you go matters.

Fitzroy

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Hickens Hotel on Russell Street is recommended by many commenters, and two of them name it as the Arsenal spot. Another patron praises the fresh CUB draft range, including a rare Carlton Black, while one commenter relays that the venue's website says it hosts Arsenal and Manchester United supporter groups. The main caveats are that one commenter was not sure the venue still goes by the Hickens name, and one patron likes the screens for footy but is lukewarm on the drinks.

Russell St

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

One visitor describes it as a quiet, cosy spot in a laneway just off Bourke Street, and another suggests it for meeting people. A further visitor says the vibe could be a good fit but advises checking the non-alcoholic options first. Several others simply name it as a suggestion.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Apollo Inn is a CBD bar that several commenters recommend. One first-time visitor called it terrific, and one commenter who lists it among their CBD go-to bars describes that group, which includes it, as having a great atmosphere. Another commenter says it is better than 1806, and a few more include it in lists of suggested or top bars. Two commenters only name it.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Nick & Nora's is a bar that several people recommend. One patron ranks its drinks as the best overall among the places they named, and another says the atmosphere is great and it tends to be lively through the week. A couple of people call it excellent or splendid, and one suggests starting with a punchbowl drink.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

People recommend Old Palm Liquor, mainly for its wine list and food. Two people praise the wine, and two mention the food, including a wood-fire steak. One person calls it top notch, another calls it a personal favourite, and one notes it is casual rather than fine dining. Those who name a location place it in Brunswick East, while one person's praise does not name a location.

Brunswick East

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Bartronica, and one commenter mentions pinball machines and retro arcade games. Two commenters suggest it feels less like a dive bar. One commenter places it further along Flinders, and another also places it in the CBD.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Several people recommend Cookie as a bar. One weekday regular says Cookie is their go-to and likes the private balcony, and another says the crowd has manners and good conversation. Cookie is one of the levels at Curtin House on Swanston, each with a different vibe, as one visitor describes, and a couple list it among CBD bars worth trying.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Different people recommend Northcote Social Club, and a few point to the food, including the lunch specials. One patron describes a good beer selection, plenty of footy screens and a back room where live music plays, and another commenter says the venue is easy to get around for those with mobility needs. Another commenter names its Monday local-music night as one that still backs local bands. One commenter who calls it their go-to footy pub says it is quiet early in games but fills up as the crowd builds, and they are growing weary of it.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend Three Crowns, and two people call it a top pick or a go-to pub. One patron who places it in North Melbourne says they loved it after visiting once, and another rates it as the top pub around.

North Melbourne

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Hell's Kitchen is a bar near Degraves in Melbourne's CBD, and several people recommend it. One patron describes it as cosy and small, while another patron finds it relaxed and calls it a great bar. That patron says it is good for people-watching from a window table if you can get one. One visitor calls it fun.

Degraves

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Commenters recommend Loch & Key for late-night drinks. One patron says it is fun on Monday nights, when a hospitality crowd turns up, and a different patron praises the vibe. One commenter says the upstairs stays open late, while another suggests it may be quirkier than a dive bar. A patron who has celebrated birthdays at this bar alongside other bars says they love these venues.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend The Union Hotel in Brunswick, just off Sydney Road. One patron liked its vibe on a visit about three years ago, and one commenter describes it as a local with soul. Several others only suggest it or list it among other pubs, with little description.

Brunswick

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend Angel Music Bar in the CBD, and one visitor calls it a good bet. One patron describes it as intimate, says it has a Funktion One sound system, and calls it a good spot to finish the night dancing. One visitor describes the crowd as slightly older. Many others simply name it, without much detail.

CBD

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Kirk's is a wine bar in the CBD that several commenters recommend. One commenter rates it the top wine bar in their local area, and another counts it among their favourite city wine bars. One commenter says it seldom lets people down, while another advises turning up early to secure a spot outdoors. A few commenters only name it within lists of other bars.

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Many commenters recommend Elysian in Fitzroy. One patron says it is the place to go for whisky. Two other patrons suggest it as another option in the area.

Fitzroy

6 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend Bar Clara, and two commenters describe it as cosy. One commenter praises the cocktails, while another says the bar will make a custom cocktail to suit your tastes. A further commenter calls it an underrated gem near Chinatown and says mocktails can be made there. A visitor who has been before found it very pleasant.

6 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Most people recommend The Toff, and one suggests it as a stop after dinner. A few visitors say its booths offer privacy, and one says the booth doors can be shut for a relaxed time. One patron also says the drink selection is good and mentions a DJ playing background music. One visitor warns it is very loud, and another says it gets more fun the longer you stay but used to be better.

6 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne, r/AskAnAustralian

Several people recommend Fiftyfive. At the Elizabeth Street location, one diner describes a relaxed, retro setting with good music, and another calls it very cute. One visitor found it shut on a Friday night and hopes that was temporary.

Elizabeth Street

6 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/melbourne

Many people recommend the Duke of Wellington pub, and one diner singles out its pornstar martini. One visitor lists it among group-friendly options, another suggests it for watching a game, and another patron likes its parma. One patron voices a complaint about its beer, while a visitor finds the place atmospheric.

6 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/melbourne

Molly Rose in Collingwood has a large courtyard and in-house beers, which one person praises as varied. A few people include it in suggested brewery hops and walks, and another simply endorses it. Overall more people recommend it than warn against it, but two patrons who have been there say it has slipped. One patron finds the ordering setup and table service frustrating, and the other says a shift toward more food has made them stop going.

Smith Street

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend The Arbory, and several point to its river views. One patron says it has good music and decent drinks, and another visitor lists it among CBD spots near Flinders where they felt at ease reading alone. One patron mentions that a train line runs along one side.

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Nighthawks is a bar on Johnston Street in Collingwood, and several people recommend it. One patron lists it among dive-bar options, and one commenter gives a qualified endorsement, saying it is not for everyone.

Collingwood

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Inner North Brewing is a brewery in Brunswick that several commenters recommend. One patron says it is their favourite among the Brunswick breweries they list, while another describes it as relaxed, with good beer and dogs welcome.

Brunswick

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Commenters recommend Father's Office in the CBD, and a few point to its happy hour and specials as a reason to go. One commenter says the happy hour runs in an early evening window and again later, while another mentions a balcony and says the specials depend on what time you visit. Another commenter lists it among casual CBD spots where they have personally felt at ease reading solo. One commenter's praise for the long happy hour covers both locations, so it may not describe the CBD branch alone.

CBD

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend Willows and Wine, a wine bar on Victoria Street in North Melbourne. One patron says reading is welcome and food is served, though the non-alcoholic choices are not outstanding. Another patron suggests grabbing a snack and a hot chocolate, then buying a book, while one visitor describes it as a cosy mix of bookshop and wine bar. A separate visitor places it in West Melbourne, so check the address before you go.

North Melbourne Victoria Street

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Several people recommend Mountain Culture, and one visitor found the selection excellent and the venue lovely. A couple of visitors name the Richmond location, and one diner sees it as part of a fun crawl with other stops. One visitor feels the place has stepped up its game.

Richmond

5 people recommendvia r/melbourne

Black Kite Commune is a bar that several people recommend. Two patrons praise the food and two like the cocktails, while one patron mentions a decent range of Australian whiskey. One patron says the upstairs booths are usually quiet outside weekends, and another says the place isn't rowdy. A few commenters only name it as a suggestion.