The Top 10 Bars In The Docklands Melbourne

The Docklands, towards the West of Melbourne’s CBD, are a fantastic spot for a late night drink along the waterfront. Whether you prefer a deluxe hotel bar, a swanky cocktail lounge or a relaxed pub, there is something for everyone. We’ve rounded up the best locations, so you know exactly where to go.

1. Platform 28

Bar, Restaurant, Wine

Formerly a railway goods warehouse, Platform 28 manages to uphold its history, maintaining heritage charm that wins over just about anyone. It perfectly blends the old with the new in its décor, and incorporates both indoor and outdoor spaces over two floors. Altogether Platform 28 is a great place for casual dining and drinking with its pleasantly relaxed yet rustic atmosphere and its vast selection of beer and wine. It is arguably an overlooked gem amongst Melbourne’s diverse bar culture.

2. The Woolshed

Bar, Pub, Restaurant, Pub Grub, Australian, Contemporary, Beer, Wine

The Woolshed Pub, located at Central Pier, is a delightful waterfront restaurant and bar. It boasts a warm family atmosphere with a contemporary twist. It has choices of fireside rooms, an external balcony as well as beautiful waterfront rooms. It is also worth noting that the Woolshed can be hired for private venues and parties with its superb dockland views. So pop down for an evening pint and enjoy some great gastro pub style food.

3. The James Hotel

Bar, Pub, Restaurant, Australian, Wine, Beer, Pub Grub

If it is a casual dining and drinking experience that you’re after, look no further. The James Hotel is a refreshing hotel and bar sporting a wide array of craft beer and cider. Boasting a warm, family atmosphere, this upscale brew house serves some fantastic pub snacks and offers some rustic wooden outdoor seating.

5. Renzos Bar

Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Italian, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Wine, Beer

Renzos Bar, located at the very heart of the Docklands, is a great place to socialise. This is due, in part, to its friendly, vibrant atmosphere, and also its Italian authenticity. Whether that takes the form of delicious Italian cuisine or beautifully crafted cocktails, the choice is up to you. Regardless, Renzo’s is definitely worth a visit.

6. Watermark Docklands

Bar, Restaurant, Italian, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer

This large bar once more emphasises how great Italian hospitality is. With a modern décor and fantastic service, this is the perfect venue for a small function or much needed post-work drink. For such a large restaurant, Watermark has a surprisingly wide array of beers, as well as an extensive wine menu. This is clearly a place which prides itself on delivering the best experience possible for its customers.

7. Network Public Bar & Pizzeria

Bar, Pub, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer, Fast Food

It has to be said that Network Public Bar is the ideal place for a cheeky drink, mainly due to its fantastic location within Southern Cross. Although this is only a small bar, it definitely delivers excellent quality – specifically when it comes to its pizza and beer. So sit yourself down with a cold beverage and a slice of margarita, and people watch to your heart’s content.

8. Hooks At The Yarra

Hooks At The Yarra

For a more comfortable experience, Hooks At The Yarra offers an outside space where tables are arranged alongside beanbags. Situated at the foot of the Webb Bridge, there is the choice of a chilled outdoor beanbag chair or an intimate dining experience with some of the best seafood in Melbourne. For keen wine connoisseurs, Hooks provides a diverse wine list, as well as some classic cocktails for those with a sweeter tooth. So pick your poison and lose yourself to beanbag chair comfort.

Hooks At The Yarra, 50 River Esplanade, Docklands, Melbourne, Australia, +61 3 9043 4221

Image courtesy of Hooks at Yarra

9. The Savoy Tavern

Bar, Pub, Wine, Beer, Pub Grub

Located on the outskirts of the Dockland vicinity, The Savoy Tavern loiters on the edge of Bourke Street opposite Southern Cross. A traditional style sports bar and pub, The Savoy provides ample evening delights. Whether it’s grabbing a beer on a Friday night on your way home from work, or trying a tasty treat after a footy game in the Ethiad, The Savoy will fulfil your needs. With a focus on sport, pub grub and good beer, you are guaranteed a good time.

10. Bar Nacional

Bar, Tapas, Spanish, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

Bar Nacional is found just a little way from the water front, squeezed on Collins Street. Unlike many of the swanky bars around Docklands, Bar Nacional takes its inspiration from the Basque region of Spain, offering fabulous Spanish tapas and delicious house sangria. Wanting to adhere to their Spanish roots, the wine list caters for predominantly Spanish wines, as well as a few Aussie ones tossed in for good measure. Perhaps it is time to head down and get your fiesta shoes on.

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