The Best Bars in St Kilda, Melbourne

It’s a hipster’s dream. But you won’t find this beerhall anywhere near Brunswick. The Local Taphouse on Carlisle Street is easy to walk past, but you should defiantly check this one out. Pumping out craft beer like there’s no tomorrow, The Local goes through over 400 different beers each year on its 20 taps, so there’s always something new to try. It has a warm inviting feel in the main space, and the décor is very rustic and intriguing. While here make sure you check out the beer garden too, it’s a great place to throw back a pint in the summer months.

The Prince of Wales Hotel is somewhat of an icon in St Kilda. The Prince Bandroom has had many thousands of up-and-coming bands walk the boards and play until questionable hours of the morning. The bar itself offers a traditional selection of drinks, but the atmosphere and performances are definitely worth a visit. It is always packed to the brim for the annual Melbourne Pride March, which runs down the adjacent Fitzroy Street.

Not far from the St. Kilda beach is 29th Apartment, a quirky bar and art gallery that is inspired by the life and work of the Katishe, a struggling artist from St. Kilda whose work was similar to that of Andy Warhol and influenced by the streets of New York City. Set up in the style of a New York City apartment, this bar serves a delicious array of cocktails inspired by New York City and its landmarks.

George Lane Bar is typical Melbourne gem: hidden and out of the way, but when you find it it’ll have you coming back time after time. Just point at something on the menu, find a cozy chair, and feel at home from there on in. The bartenders here have a wealth of knowledge that is missing from other similar venues. It may be tucked away, but don’t let that put you off. Lovers of rum, make sure you pass through these doors.

The Nelson is one of the new players on the block in St Kilda. Located on beautiful Acland Street, you will find The Nelson a chic yet casual venue to settle down for a drink after a heavy day. The wine list offers a varied selection of Australian wines, and some imported sparkling, but if you’re into something more adventurous, try one of the many rum cocktails available. Definitely worth stopping by for a drink and a few laughs with your friends.

This classy Victorian-era inspired cocktail, wine and tapas bar is one of the must-visits in St. Kilda. The ostentatious décor at Laika includes leather seats, dim lighting, and the wine selection decorating the bar, and provides an incredible ambience to enjoy some delicious Spanish sharing plates, the fantastic selection of international and local wines, and the incredible cocktails made by the talented bartenders. This is a great place to come with a small group of friends or with a special someone.

If you are more a traditional pub kind of person The Fifth Province is the place for you. Styled around a traditional Irish pub, it has a welcoming feel as soon as you walk through the door. Whether you just want a relaxing pint after work, or looking for some filling grub after a taking a dip at nearby St Kilda beach, The Fifth Province will definitely deliver. They offer a varied selection of craft beers, which are rotated once every fortnight.