Best Bars in Melbourne: A Journey Through Hidden Gems and Iconic Spots

What if I told you the best bars in Melbourne aren’t where you’d expect? Picture yourself walking down an unassuming alleyway, the sound of footsteps echoing off the walls, only to stumble upon a door that leads to one of the city’s most exclusive watering holes. Melbourne’s bar scene is full of such surprises—hidden gems tucked away behind nondescript facades, rooftop lounges that offer stunning views, and dive bars that have stood the test of time. But this isn’t your average “best bars” list. This is a journey through Melbourne’s unique drinking culture, from rooftop views that make you forget about your drink to underground cocktail lounges that make you forget about the world outside.

Melbourne is a city that prides itself on being a melting pot of cultures, and its bar scene is no different. The diversity in the city’s nightlife reflects its global influence. You'll find everything from Japanese whiskey bars and speakeasies inspired by the Prohibition era to pubs that feel like they've been plucked straight out of a quaint English village. This isn’t just about the drinks, though those are top-notch, but about the atmosphere, the people, and the experience each bar offers.

Let’s begin with a look at some of the hidden bars you might not stumble across unless you knew where to look. The fun part? They’re not advertised, making them all the more special when you finally do find them.

Hidden Bars: Melbourne's Best-Kept Secrets

You might have heard of places like The Croft Institute. Tucked away in a dark laneway, it feels like you’re entering a science lab from a horror movie. Think syringes as cocktail instruments, hospital gurneys as seating, and a DJ mixing tunes in a room that feels like an abandoned medical facility. The cocktails here are eccentric, perfectly matching the vibe of the place.

Then there's Eau de Vie, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its theatrical drinks. Located in Malthouse Lane, it’s a place where cocktails are crafted with liquid nitrogen and fire, where the bartenders are as much performers as they are mixologists. The energy is infectious, and the experience of watching your drink being made is half the fun.

Another hidden gem is Berlin Bar. With its Cold War theme, you enter through an inconspicuous door and suddenly find yourself divided between East and West Berlin. One side is gritty and industrial, while the other is luxurious and opulent. It’s not just a bar—it’s an experience.

Bar Americano is the definition of a hole-in-the-wall. Tucked away in an alley with standing room only for about 10 people, this little gem serves up classic cocktails in a tiny, Italian-style bar. It’s easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for, but that’s part of the charm.

Rooftop Bars: Drinks with a View

Melbourne’s skyline may not be as famous as New York’s or Tokyo’s, but that doesn’t mean it lacks stunning rooftop bars. Rooftop at QT is one such place, offering panoramic views of the city alongside a solid cocktail menu. This is where locals and tourists alike flock to watch the sunset, drink in hand.

For a more laid-back vibe, Naked in the Sky in Fitzroy is a must-visit. This rooftop bar sits atop Naked for Satan, a Basque-inspired eatery. Grab a pintxos, order a drink, and take in the view of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. The atmosphere is unpretentious, and the drinks are affordable, making it a favorite among locals.

On the fancier side of things is The Emerson, a multi-level venue with a rooftop bar that offers some of the best views in South Yarra. It’s a place where you go to see and be seen, but the cocktails are nothing short of spectacular.

If you’re after something more relaxed, head to Loop Roof. With its lush greenery and laid-back vibe, it feels like you’re sipping cocktails in a garden rather than a rooftop bar. The views are equally impressive, and the cocktails are as creative as they come.

Classic Pubs: A Taste of Old Melbourne

Not everything has to be about hidden bars and fancy rooftops. Melbourne is also home to some of Australia’s most historic pubs, places that have been serving up pints long before craft cocktails became all the rage. The Napier Hotel is one such institution. Nestled in the heart of Fitzroy, this old-school pub offers hearty meals and a rotating selection of beers on tap.

Another pub with a rich history is The Lincoln, located in Carlton. This pub has been around since 1854, and while it’s undergone some renovations, it still maintains that classic pub feel. The menu features a blend of traditional pub fare and modern dishes, while the beer list focuses on local craft brews.

If you're after a true dive bar experience, The Tote in Collingwood is where you'll want to go. Famous for its live music, this place has been a fixture in Melbourne's underground music scene for decades. It's gritty, loud, and unapologetically rough around the edges, but that’s what makes it one of Melbourne's most beloved institutions.

Cocktail Bars: The Art of Mixology

Melbourne’s cocktail bars are in a league of their own, with some of the best mixologists in the country calling this city home. Black Pearl, located in Fitzroy, is often ranked among the best bars in the world. The bartenders here are true artisans, crafting drinks that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a date or a night out with friends.

Another standout is The Everleigh, which takes inspiration from the golden era of cocktails. With its leather booths and dim lighting, it feels like stepping into a 1920s speakeasy. The menu is filled with classic cocktails, but the bartenders are more than happy to whip up something off-menu tailored to your preferences.

Above Board, located in Collingwood, is another must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. This minimalist bar focuses on quality over quantity, offering a tight menu of expertly crafted drinks. What sets it apart is the personal experience—you sit around a bar where the bartender explains the intricacies of each drink as they make it in front of you.

Breweries and Craft Beer: A Hoppy Haven

While Melbourne’s cocktail scene is undeniably impressive, its craft beer scene is equally noteworthy. Stomping Ground Brewery in Collingwood is one of the best places to sample local brews. With a sprawling beer hall and a huge selection of beers on tap, this is where beer lovers congregate. The brewery is also family-friendly, with a dedicated play area for kids, making it a great spot for a relaxed afternoon.

Another local favorite is Moon Dog Craft Brewery, known for its experimental beers and quirky decor. If you’re looking to try something outside the box, this is the place to be. From pineapple-flavored IPAs to barrel-aged stouts, Moon Dog isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of what beer can be.

For those who prefer a more traditional approach to brewing, The Crafty Squire is Melbourne’s only CBD microbrewery. Located in the heart of the city, this brewery offers a range of house-brewed beers alongside a solid menu of pub fare. It’s the perfect spot for a post-work pint.

Wine Bars: Melbourne's Love Affair with Vino

Melbourne’s proximity to some of Australia’s best wine regions means it’s no surprise the city is home to a thriving wine bar scene. Embla, located on Russell Street, is a cozy wine bar with a focus on natural wines. The food here is equally impressive, with a menu that changes daily based on what’s fresh and in season.

Another standout is City Wine Shop, which has a more old-school European vibe. Located across from the Parliament House, this wine bar is the perfect spot for an after-work drink or a pre-dinner glass of wine. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to recommend a bottle based on your preferences, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

If you’re after something a bit more intimate, Punch Lane is a hidden gem. Tucked away on Little Bourke Street, this wine bar and restaurant offer an extensive wine list and a seasonal menu. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet night out.

Melbourne’s Nightlife: A Culture of Discovery

What makes Melbourne’s bar scene so special is that it’s ever-evolving. New places pop up all the time, and the locals are always eager to discover the next hidden gem. The city’s bars are more than just places to get a drink—they’re destinations in themselves, offering unique experiences that make a night out in Melbourne unlike anywhere else in the world.