The Five Best Bars In Melbourne

Fancy a drink? In Melbourne, you’re spoilt for choice with rooftops, gin joints and dive bars galore, but with so many to choose from, deciding which to walk into and which to walk past can be overwhelming. Culture Trip has narrowed down your options and found the five best bars in Melbourne.

Naked for Satan

Restaurant, Spanish

With devilish allure, Naked for Satan has established itself as one of Melbourne’s most iconic bars. Perhaps it’s the pinxtos (bite-sized snacks), the house-infused vodka or the delicious rooftop views that explain the Fitzroy venue’s unwavering popularity. Endeavour to make your way up to the Naked in the Sky rooftop for Basque delicacies on the terrace, as you enjoy views of Brunswick, the city and the Dandenong mountain range with a gin in hand.

1806

Distinguished in character, 1806 is a traditional speakeasy featuring Prohibition-era décor. It’s no wonder the bar was awarded World’s Best Cocktail Menu in 2008, as their repertoire includes a different cocktail from just about every decade since the 1700s, starting with the Fish House Punch. There is even a mezzanine overlooking the bar where you can watch the finest mixologists at work. Booking is essential, and sharing plates are available.

1806, 169 Exhibition St., Melbourne, VIC, Australia, +61 3 9663 7722

The Everleigh

Cocktail Bar, Bar, Diner, Cocktails

Situated above an American diner, The Everleigh might be a challenge to find, but a night sitting in one of the leather-bound booths is certainly even harder to forget. Since opening in 2011, The Everleigh has received multiple accolades, including a place on Drinks International’s list of The World’s 50 Best Bars. Known for its meticulously prepared cocktails and diligent table service, The Everleigh is an ambient bar that exudes quiet confidence.

Bar Americano

Bar, Beer, Australian

Blending typically American concoctions with impeccable European service, Bar Americano serves classic cocktails alongside espresso. The intimate bar can only hold a few people at a time, and they prohibit photography, the combination of which allows for a bygone film-noir experience. Hidden in a laneway within the city centre, aspiring patrons should follow the framed art installations, and look for the blue TABACCHI sign.

Black Pearl

For 15 years, this family-owned business has humbly built a reputation for itself and has been consistently named to Drinks International’s list of The World’s 50 Best Bars for the last several years. Resembling the belly of a ship with dim lighting and arched walkways, Black Pearl has a modest drinks menu with an alternative list upstairs at The Attic. Patrons never leave hungry thanks to their legendary sausage rolls.