The Drunken Poet
A beloved Irish pub near Queen Victoria Market with live music, rated 4.7 across more than 1,200 reviews.
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Why it's worth checking out
The Drunken Poet sits on Peel Street in West Melbourne, right by the Queen Victoria Market. A small, characterful and much-loved Irish pub, it's become a genuine local institution — the kind of warm, atmospheric spot that captures the spirit of a proper Irish pub, complete with a great pint and regular live music.
The appeal is that authentic, convivial pub experience: a cosy, welcoming setting, well-poured Guinness, traditional Irish tunes and the easygoing charm that makes a great local. It's a beloved fixture of the area, perfect for a relaxed drink and a genuine atmosphere just steps from the famous market.
With a 4.7 rating from more than 1,200 reviews, it's clearly a firm favourite. The live-music line-up, what's on tap, opening hours and any events vary, so it's worth checking the program before you go if you're after a specific session — though for a pint and a taste of one of Melbourne's most beloved Irish pubs, it's often just a matter of dropping in and settling in among the regulars.
Reviewed by Iyan B.
Practical details
Opening hours
Closed- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 15:00 – 01:00
- WednesdayToday
- 15:00 – 01:00
- Thursday
- 15:00 – 01:00
- Friday
- 14:00 – 01:00
- Saturday
- 12:00 – 01:00
- Sunday
- 12:00 – 23:00
Spot Score
- Reputation
- 87
- Popularity
- 94
- Information quality
- 30
- Category fit
- 70
- Freshness
- 30
Our independent editorial score — not a user rating.
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