Best Bars Melbourne

by Author May 21, 2025

May 21, 2025

Melbourne is a city known for its vibrant nightlife, and its bar scene is one of the best in Australia. Whether you’re after a cosy wine bar, a rooftop cocktail lounge, or a lively pub with live music, Melbourne has something for everyone. The city is packed with hidden laneway bars, stylish speakeasies, and spots with stunning views, each offering unique drinks, great vibes, and unforgettable experiences. From classic cocktails and craft beers to locally made wines and creative bar snacks, you’ll find plenty of options to suit any mood or occasion.

In this guide, we’ve put together a list of the best bars in Melbourne, chosen for their atmosphere, drink quality, service, and overall experience. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a casual date, or just looking for somewhere to unwind after work, these top-rated bars deliver a great time. We’ve included a mix of iconic favourites and new hotspots, so you can discover something fresh or revisit a well-loved venue. Explore our list and find your next go-to bar in Melbourne’s exciting and ever-evolving nightlife scene.

Eau De Vie Melbourne

Eau De Vie in Melbourne is more than just a bar—it’s a special place filled with style and charm. Hidden in the city center, it’s like finding a secret spot for amazing cocktails and really good service. The place feels old-fashioned and fancy, and the drinks are made with a lot of care and skill. Each drink is like a story with special flavors and nice looks. The bar pays a lot of attention to small things, and the staff knows a lot and loves what they do, making your visit really cozy and unforgettable. Eau De Vie isn’t just a place to drink; it’s perfect if you want a cool atmosphere, something different, and a bit of mystery for a fun night out.

Review on google: “Love this place for their drinks and atmosphere! It’s always exciting opening up their cocktail menu as there are so many options to choose from. I really like the way they are grouped too. Would highly recommend the Yuzu mule with rum if you’re looking for something sweet and refreshing.”- William Hua

Lui Bar

Lui Bar in Melbourne is a special place offering a great experience. Whether you want a quiet time alone, a fun night with friends, or to try different cocktails, this spot has it all. It’s well-known for making awesome cocktails that show off Melbourne’s skills. When you step into this stylish place, you feel like you’re in a fancy world full of style and great drinks. With a beautiful view and a classy setting, you can enjoy carefully made cocktails while taking in the city sights. Lui Bar brings together fancy vibes and tasty drinks, inviting everyone to enjoy the best of Melbourne’s cocktail scene in a cool and elegant atmosphere.

Review on google: “We had a great night here, very nice experience, in terms of drinks we ordered a Million Dollar Baby, it was delicious, in terms of service the waiter was very patient with us explaining the menu and providing recommendations, what was exciting was the view, you can almost overlook the whole Melbourne from this level.”- Chaw Gavin

Good Heavens Rooftop Bar

Good Heavens Rooftop Bar is the biggest rooftop spot in Melbourne, giving an amazing experience. It’s way up high, so you get awesome views and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for a special night out. The place feels modern and cool but also relaxed. They have a lot of different drinks, like special cocktails and craft beers, which go well with the incredible skyline views. You can chill in comfy seats or chat with others at big tables. It’s not just a bar; it’s like an amazing city escape where you can enjoy the view, tasty drinks, and a really cool vibe, making it a special experience for everyone who visits.

Review on Facebook: “What a lovely time I had here last weekend. Thank you for the yummy drinks made by one of the nicest bartenders ever. Looking forward to visiting again another time.”- Jen Besford

Boilermaker House

Boilermaker House is a special place in Melbourne for people who love whiskey. It’s right in the middle of the city and it’s all about matching whiskies with craft beers. They have a lot of different whiskies, more than 900! Plus, they offer special craft beers. The place feels cozy with old-fashioned decorations, making it nice for both serious whiskey lovers and casual drinkers. They help you choose from lots of different whiskies, whether they’re common ones or harder-to-find ones. The staff knows a lot and can help you find the perfect drink. It’s not just a regular bar; it’s like an adventure where you can try amazing flavors and enjoy both whiskey and beer in a unique way.

Review on Facebook: “Happy times at the Boilermaker last night. Excellent craft beers, and a ridiculously extensive selection of terrific whiskies. Good service from friendly and knowledgeable people helped make this a memorable visit.”- Robert Crowther

Murmur Piano Bar

In the middle of the city, Murmur Piano Bar is a special place with live music and a cool vibe. Skilled musicians play beautiful songs on the piano that make you feel cozy and relaxed. You can chill out, enjoy tasty cocktails, and eat yummy food in a fancy but comfortable setting. Murmur isn’t just about music; it’s also about great flavors and a stylish place to take a break from the busy city. With its nice decorations and live music, this bar is all about having a classy and relaxing time, making your evening feel special with music and a fancy atmosphere.

Review on google: “We had a wonderful night at this intimate cosy bar. The energetic piano player was happy to take and play requests and had everyone singing along. The bar staff were friendly and the cocktails are definitely worth a try. Overall a great vibe, this bar is definitely worth a visit”- Gwen Purcell

State of Grace

State of Grace is a distinctive Melbourne venue that seamlessly blends a European-inspired restaurant, a hidden cellar bar, and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views. Located at 27 King Street in the heart of the CBD, this multi-level establishment offers a unique dining and drinking experience. The ground-floor restaurant, known as State Level, serves a menu influenced by European bistro fare, featuring dishes like ricotta gnocchi and grass-fed Kobe Wagyu steak. Descending into the hidden cellar bar, Fall From Grace, patrons are greeted with a speakeasy ambiance characterized by velvet seating, chandeliers, and an extensive cocktail list. The rooftop bar provides a more casual setting, ideal for enjoying cocktails, pizzas, and craft beers while taking in the city skyline. Whether you’re seeking an elegant dinner, a clandestine drink, or a relaxed rooftop gathering, State of Grace offers a versatile venue to suit various occasions.

Review on google: “This is a good place to have after work drinks. It gets so busy on a Friday evening it’s best to book a table just to make sure you have seating. They have a beautiful setting where you can take photos. Would be perfect for brunch with girls.”- Julia “Juliaqui” Kibuga

Trinket Bar

Trinket Bar is a chic and whimsical cocktail lounge located at 87 Flinders Lane in Melbourne’s CBD, offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication. Known for its plush velvet interiors, antique décor, and ambient lighting, the bar serves up an impressive menu of handcrafted cocktails, share plates, and gourmet pizzas. One of its standout features is a hidden cellar bar, accessed through a wardrobe, adding a fun, speakeasy twist to your night out. Whether you’re stopping in for after-work drinks or planning a stylish evening with friends, Trinket Bar delivers a memorable experience in the heart of Melbourne.

Review on google: “Step into Trinket Bar on Flinders Lane – a hidden gem with vintage charm, cosy corners, and a touch of mystery behind every door. Their new *Trinket Travel* cocktail menu takes you around the world, one sip at a time – from bold Asian spices to rich North American warmth and tropical South American twists. Pair it with tasty share plates and soak in the luxe, speakeasy vibes. Definitely one to try.”- Sean Han

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book A Function Or Private Event At A Melbourne Bar?

Yes, many Melbourne bars offer private bookings for parties, corporate events, and celebrations. Some bars provide customizable packages, including food, drinks, and music to match your event’s vibe. It’s best to book in advance.

Are There Bars In Melbourne With Live Music?

Yes, Melbourne is home to numerous bars that feature live music, ranging from jazz and acoustic to rock and indie bands. Bars like The Night Cat and Cherry Bar are popular for their live music experiences.

What Time Do Melbourne Bars Close?

Melbourne bars typically close between midnight and 3 AM, with some venues staying open later on weekends. Check with individual bars for their opening and closing hours, as they can vary depending on location and licensing.

Do Melbourne Bars Offer Cocktails?

Yes, many of Melbourne’s top bars specialize in creative cocktails, including classic recipes and modern twists. Whether you’re into gin, rum, or whisky, Melbourne bars have expert mixologists crafting signature drinks just for you.

Are There Any Hidden Or Speakeasy Bars In Melbourne?

Yes! Melbourne is known for its hidden speakeasy bars, like The Croft Institute and Hutong, where you can enjoy a secretive and intimate atmosphere with unique cocktails. These bars often have an exclusive, vintage vibe.

Best Bars Melbourne

Eau De Vie Melbourne

Lui Bar

Good Heavens Rooftop Bar

Boilermaker House

Murmur Piano Bar

State of Grace

Trinket Bar

Frequently Asked Questions

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