The Kilburn

The Kilburn is a cocktail and whisky bar in the heart of Hawthorn, occupying the ground floor of the heritage-listed Commercial Bank of Australia building at the intersection of Burwood and Glenferrie Roads. The Italianate-style rendered-brick building is listed on the Register of the National Estate, giving the venue a strong sense of place as well as an atmospheric setting for a drink. It was designed by architect E.G. Kilburn, whose name the bar carries.

Drinks are the focus here, with the venue describing itself as a premium whisky and cocktail bar. Its collection includes more than 350 bottles of whisky, alongside around 200 other spirits, so the selection is a substantial part of the experience rather than a small addition to a general bar menu. The online menu also includes cocktails, beer, cider, seltzer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks, with whisky flights listed among the offerings. A Dark Passion Fruit Daiquiri is one named cocktail on the current menu.

The Kilburn presents its interior as warm and sophisticated, with a luxe, intimate feel suited to settling in for carefully made drinks. The setting and drinks list make it a natural option for after-work drinks, while the venue also caters for special celebrations and private functions. It operates as an event space as well as a bar, offering function areas for groups looking to mark an occasion in Hawthorn.

This is primarily a drinks-led destination rather than a family-focused venue or a place to visit for a broad dining experience. It should appeal to whisky drinkers wanting to explore a large collection, cocktail drinkers looking for a more considered setting, and groups organising a celebration or private hire. With its heritage surrounds, extensive spirits selection and intimate atmosphere, The Kilburn offers a distinctive bar experience in Melbourne’s inner east.