Much like its food scene, Melbourne's bars are an eclectic mix. From slinky underground cocktail haunts hidden in a laneway, to rooftop oases with sprawling views of the city, there's something for just about every occasion. Beyond just a place to grab a drink, Melbourne’s bars are destinations in their own right—where ambiance, conversation, and overall vibes take centre stage.
Below, cut through the noise with our pick of the best bars in Melbourne, from beachside locales perfect for a sunset tipple, to lively late-night spots.
1. Bar Romantica
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Much like the name suggests, this Brunswick East institution has romance in spades. Dimly lit and furnished with old school red booths, the drinks menu spans local beers, wines cocktails, whisky, and digestives, making this the perfect date-night spot. And, if things are going well, their authentic Italian fare is some of the best in the city.
2. HER
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It's hard to plan a night out in Melbourne's CBD without mention of HER. The five-story venue has become a certified destination, with a cocktail bar (HER Bar), Thai restaurant (BKK), music-listening bar (Music Room), and rooftop (HER Rooftop) on offer. Come early and stay late: the lines here are no joke.
3. Hope St Radio
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Sipping wine in the courtyard of Hope St Radio feels a little more like attending a house party than an actual wine bar. Housed in the Collingwood Yards, this restaurant and bar has all the makings of an excellent night out, from delicious food (the menu was formerly helmed by head chef Ellie Bouhadana), to an expansive drinks list.
4. Amarillo
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When you think of a quintessential Melbourne wine bar, this is it. Spilling onto the streets in Fitzroy, this local favourite has an epic international and local drinks list, with delicious Spanish share-plates to match. Sit back and relax as the record player spins inside, and watch the colourful foot traffic go by outside.
5. Caretakers Cottage
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It's easy to see why Caretakers Cottage is renowned as one of the best bars in the world. Housed in a former Caretaker's Cottage (dating back to 1914) on Little Lonsdale street, what the tiny venue lacks in space, it makes up for in ambience. The drinks menu is small, but carefully considered, and the food recalls an upmarket British pub. A must-visit on your next trip to the CBD.
6. Dr Morse
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Dinner, drinks, and dancing are on the menu at this vibey Abbotsford institution. Whether you're looking for a cosy, casual drink, or the ideal venue to host your next celebration, this is one spot that really does it all.
7. Toorak Cellars
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Nestled in the greenery of Beatty Avenue in Armadale, this venue doubles as a bottle shop and wine bar. There's a selection of twenty wines by-the-glass to choose from (which changes regularly), or you can select any bottle from the shelf to sip on. Pair yours with their share-style snacks, from cheese boards to anchovy toast.
