12 Best Bars in Melbourne: Where to Drink Right Now
Melbourne's bar scene spans everything from intimate jazz clubs to neighbourhood spots perfect for a casual drink. Whether you're after craft cocktails, live music, or a local favourite, here are some of the city's standout bars worth visiting.
1Bars Fitzroy1. BAR STOCK SHUFFLE
A natural starting point in Fitzroy's vibrant bar precinct, this venue draws a solid crowd and offers a reliable night out in one of the city's most popular entertainment strips.
View venue4.9(1,746)· Google71Spot ScoreGreat
2Bars Carlton2. Ballers Clubhouse Carlton
Located in Carlton, this bar gives the neighbourhood a dedicated hangout spot with a distinct atmosphere that appeals to regulars and newcomers alike.
View venue4.9(1,438)· Google70Spot ScoreGreat
3Bars Prahran3. Bar Blanco
Prahran's bar culture finds expression here, offering a venue that fits comfortably into the suburb's style-conscious drinking scene.
View venue4.9(684)· Google68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Bars Melbourne CBD4. Eau De Vie Melbourne
In the heart of the CBD, this bar provides a central location for after-work drinks or a night out without having to venture far into the suburbs.
View venue4.6(2,145)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Bars South Yarra5. Leonards House of Love
South Yarra's drinking culture is well represented here, making it an easy option if you're already exploring the suburb's broader entertainment scene.
View venue4.6(2,546)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Bars Brunswick6. Bar Spontana
Brunswick's bar landscape includes this spot, ideal if you're heading north and want to experience the neighbourhood's casual, creative vibe.
View venue4.9(497)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Bars Melbourne CBD7. Paris Cat Jazz Club
If you want live jazz alongside your drinks, this CBD venue adds entertainment value to an evening out, setting it apart from standard bar experiences.
View venue4.7(1,196)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Bars Melbourne CBD8. State of Grace
Another CBD option with its own character, useful if you're centralising your night out and want variety within walking distance.
View venue4.6(3,148)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Bars Fitzroy9. Blackcat Fitzroy
A second Fitzroy entry that reflects the suburb's depth as a bar destination, offering an alternative if your first choice is busy.
View venue4.6(1,223)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Bars Hawthorn10. The Black Sheep Hawthorn
Hawthorn's bar offering gives east-side drinkers a quality local spot without heading into the CBD or inner west.
View venue5.0(212)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Bars Southbank11. Hopscotch Melbourne
Southbank's proximity to cultural venues makes this bar a natural pairing if you're catching a show or spending an evening in the area.
View venue4.5(3,497)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Bars Melbourne CBD12. Yarra Falls
A CBD location that rounds out the city centre's bar options, offering yet another choice for those staying central.
View venue4.9(319)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAR STOCK SHUFFLE | 71/100 | 4.9(1,746) | — | Fitzroy | — |
| Ballers Clubhouse Carlton | 70/100 | 4.9(1,438) | — | Carlton | — |
| Bar Blanco | 68/100 | 4.9(684) | — | Prahran | — |
| Eau De Vie Melbourne | 67/100 | 4.6(2,145) | $$$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Leonards House of Love | 67/100 | 4.6(2,546) | $$ | South Yarra | — |
| Bar Spontana | 67/100 | 4.9(497) | — | Brunswick | — |
| Paris Cat Jazz Club | 67/100 | 4.7(1,196) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| State of Grace | 67/100 | 4.6(3,148) | $$$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Blackcat Fitzroy | 66/100 | 4.6(1,223) | $$ | Fitzroy | — |
| The Black Sheep Hawthorn | 66/100 | 5.0(212) | $$ | Hawthorn | — |
| Hopscotch Melbourne | 66/100 | 4.5(3,497) | $$ | Southbank | — |
| Yarra Falls | 66/100 | 4.9(319) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
Frequently asked questions
Are these bars suitable for a first date?+
Most of the venues on this list work well for dates, though quieter spots like Paris Cat Jazz Club (with live music) might suit conversation better than busier neighbourhood bars during peak hours. Check current noise levels before visiting.
Which of these bars are in the CBD?+
Eau De Vie Melbourne, Paris Cat Jazz Club, State of Grace, and Yarra Falls are all located in Melbourne CBD, making them convenient if you're working or staying central.
Do I need to book ahead?+
We don't have booking information for these venues. It's worth calling ahead, particularly on weekends or if you're visiting a popular spot like those in Fitzroy during peak times.
Which bar is best for live music?+
Paris Cat Jazz Club is explicitly identified as a jazz venue, making it the clear choice if live music is your priority.
Are there bars outside the CBD and inner suburbs?+
Yes. The Black Sheep Hawthorn serves the east side, while Hopscotch Melbourne is in Southbank, offering options beyond the densest bar precincts.
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