12 Best Bars in Melbourne CBD to Visit Right Now
Melbourne's CBD has plenty of drinking spots worth your time. Whether you're after live music, craft cocktails, or views over the city, there's something to suit most nights out. Here are 12 bars worth checking out in the heart of the city.
1
Bars Melbourne CBD1. Paris Cat Jazz Club
If you want live jazz while you drink, Paris Cat is the go-to. The venue focuses on music, so it's ideal if you want atmosphere alongside your drink.
View venue4.7(1,196)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look2
Bars Melbourne CBD2. Eau De Vie Melbourne
Worth visiting for a carefully made drink in a focused setting. This spot rewards people who take their cocktails seriously.
View venue4.6(2,145)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look3
Bars Melbourne CBD3. State of Grace
A solid choice for a night out in the CBD with a strong reputation among locals. Good option if you want a reliable venue without having to research too hard.
View venue4.6(3,148)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look4
Bars Melbourne CBD4. The Valiant Cocktail Bar
Dedicated cocktail bar in the heart of the CBD. Visit if you're in the mood for a mixed drink made with care.
View venue4.8(575)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look5
Bars Melbourne CBD5. Yarra Falls
A Melbourne CBD stalwart that keeps drawing crowds. Solid choice for a straightforward night out with mates or a date.
View venue4.9(319)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look6
Bars Melbourne CBD6. Beneath Driver Lane
An underground venue that appeals to people who like discovering hidden spots. The setting itself is part of the draw.
View venue4.6(1,348)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look7
Bars Melbourne CBD7. Union Electric Bar & Rooftop
Head here for views. The rooftop aspect makes this one worth considering if you want to see across Melbourne while you drink.
View venue4.6(1,128)· Google$$$$65Spot ScoreWorth a Look8
Bars Melbourne CBD8. The Joint Bar
A casual option in the CBD that keeps things straightforward. Good for a relaxed drink without too much fuss.
View venue4.4(2,300)· Google$$$$64Spot ScoreWorth a Look9
Bars Melbourne CBD9. Rooftop Bar
Another rooftop option for those who want their drink with a view of the city. Different vibe from street-level bars.
View venue4.4(1,733)· Google$$$$64Spot ScoreWorth a Look10
Bars Melbourne CBD10. Section 8
A no-nonsense bar for people who just want a good drink and good company. Worth a visit if you prefer substance over theatrics.
View venue4.4(1,919)· Google$$$$64Spot ScoreWorth a Look11
Bars Melbourne CBD11. Curtin House
A CBD venue with a following among regulars. Good spot to experience where locals actually drink.
View venue4.4(2,001)· Google$$$$64Spot ScoreWorth a Look12
Bars Melbourne CBD12. Saving Grace
Another well-regarded Melbourne CBD bar that merits a visit for a night out with variety in your drinking options nearby.
View venue4.7(430)· Google$$$$64Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris Cat Jazz Club | 67/100 | 4.7(1,196) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Eau De Vie Melbourne | 67/100 | 4.6(2,145) | $$$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| State of Grace | 67/100 | 4.6(3,148) | $$$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| The Valiant Cocktail Bar | 66/100 | 4.8(575) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Yarra Falls | 66/100 | 4.9(319) | — | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Beneath Driver Lane | 66/100 | 4.6(1,348) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Union Electric Bar & Rooftop | 65/100 | 4.6(1,128) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| The Joint Bar | 64/100 | 4.4(2,300) | $ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Rooftop Bar | 64/100 | 4.4(1,733) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Section 8 | 64/100 | 4.4(1,919) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Curtin House | 64/100 | 4.4(2,001) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
| Saving Grace | 64/100 | 4.7(430) | $$ | Melbourne CBD | — |
Frequently asked questions
Are all these bars actually in Melbourne CBD?+
Yes, all 12 venues listed are located in Melbourne CBD.
Do I need to book ahead at these bars?+
We don't have booking information for these venues. It's worth calling ahead, especially for busy nights or if you're planning a group visit.
Which bar has live music?+
Paris Cat Jazz Club is known for live jazz performances.
Which bars have rooftops?+
Union Electric Bar & Rooftop and Rooftop Bar both offer rooftop drinking spaces.
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