The 20 Best Bar Restaurants in Melbourne, Victoria

1806 is a stylish cocktail bar known for its inventive, well-balanced drinks and knowledgeable bartenders who tailor suggestions to guests’ tastes. The space offers a lively, energetic setting that can feel intimate and bustling at the same time. A concise menu of snacks complements the drinks, making it a popular choice for pre- or post-theater gatherings.

Cabinet is an intimate bar-restaurant tucked into a Melbourne CBD laneway with a balcony and covered rooftop terrace overlooking Swanston Street. The mood is dark and atmospheric, suited to relaxed drinks and people-watching. Tapas-style share plates are a highlight, with dishes like eggplant chips often noted, complemented by an appealing selection of wines and cocktails and attentive service.

Tucked above a laneway, Murmur Piano Bar offers an intimate, dimly lit setting accented by chandeliers, mirrors, and festoon lights. A resident pianist anchors the room with a wide range of classics and audience requests, inspiring sing-alongs and dancing. Guests enjoy a focused selection of wines and cocktails in a lively, convivial atmosphere.

Double Happiness is an intimate upstairs bar known for creative cocktails with an Asian flair, including boozy bubble tea. Decorated with bold Korean-inspired imagery, it offers a distinctive setting that contrasts with its discreet entrance on Liverpool Street. The cozy, dimly lit space, complete with a winter fireplace, and attentive staff make it a comfortable spot for drinks before nearby theater or restaurant plans. This venue focuses solely on beverages, with no food service.

Waterslide Bar offers a speakeasy-style entrance that leads to a dimly lit, inviting space with eclectic seating, including swing chairs and riverside deck tables. The bar focuses on whisky and crafted cocktails, with an extensive selection and popular tasting flights. Bartenders are attentive and knowledgeable, guiding guests toward drinks that match their preferences. Background music sets a lively mood while still allowing easy conversation.

Coopers Inn is a welcoming pub known for its cozy, refurbished interiors and relaxed social atmosphere. The kitchen serves a broad selection of classic pub dishes, including platters and vegetarian options, with food brought to the table from bar orders. Regular stand-up comedy nights and TV screens for sports add to the lively, after-work crowd appeal, with both indoor and pavement seating available.

State of Grace offers a lively multi-level experience, combining a rooftop bar with city views, a stylish mezzanine dining space, and a hidden basement bar. Guests highlight well-crafted cocktails and an appealing selection of drinks, alongside enjoyable food. Vintage-inspired decor, low lighting, and upbeat energy create an inviting setting for both casual drinks and relaxed meals.

Juliet Melbourne is an underground bar with an industrial, speakeasy-inspired design and a vibrant yet polished atmosphere. A central open kitchen adds energy as guests enjoy cheese-focused plates, house-made meats, and shared snacks suited to a light evening meal. Live jazz on select nights enhances the intimate basement setting, creating a distinctive spot for drinks and refined bar-style dining.

Eau De Vie Melbourne is a characterful cocktail bar known for theatrical, creatively crafted drinks. Bartenders mix imaginative combinations with precision, often accompanied by dramatic presentations. The vintage-inspired interior and communal seating encourage conversation, making it a popular spot for lingering over expertly made cocktails.

Belgian Beer Cafe offers hearty, flavorful dishes in a contemporary space, popular for relaxed gatherings and group meals. Guests highlight the generous sharing platters and an extensive beer selection. Attentive, welcoming staff and efficient service contribute to an easygoing, sociable dining experience.

Green Man's Arms Bar and Restaurant is a convivial corner pub offering a fully vegetarian menu with creative, freshly cooked pub classics and seasonal dishes. Shared banquets and chef’s selections highlight vibrant flavors and thoughtful ingredient combinations. Homely vintage decor and attentive, accommodating staff create an inviting setting for drinks and dinner.

Willows & Wine combines a cozy wine bar with a secondhand bookshop, with shelves of books and games to explore between drinks. An interesting wine list is complemented by generous cheese and platter-style offerings. Relaxed, personable service and a welcoming vibe make it an inviting spot for unhurried afternoons or evenings.

Natural History Bar & Grill offers a lively bar setting where guests can watch sports and choose from a broad selection of beers on tap and classic cocktails. The menu focuses on hearty pub-style dishes such as burgers, fish and chips, and shared steaks, prepared to order. Quieter seating toward the back and eclectic decor featuring displayed animals create a distinctive atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.

The Mint is a spacious restaurant and bar known for its fresh, well-presented dishes and generous portions. Guests highlight the professional, welcoming staff and the pleasant atmosphere, which is bright by day and lively into the evening. Ample outdoor seating adds to its appeal as a relaxed spot for both meals and drinks.

Three Crowns Hotel offers classic pub-style dining in a modest setting at a central North Melbourne intersection. The menu features well-prepared favorites such as fish and chips, burgers, and slow-cooked beef cheeks, noted for generous portions and satisfying flavor. Friendly, efficient service and a good selection of beer on tap and house wines contribute to the experience, with semi-secluded spaces available for larger groups.

Hightail Bar offers a pub-style dining experience with hearty, generously portioned comfort food such as schnitzel, fish and chips, and parma. The large, modern venue accommodates both casual catch-ups and organized events. Attentive staff and efficient service, even during busy lunch periods, contribute to its appeal for groups and after-work gatherings.

The Nixon Hotel offers classic pub dining in a busy setting popular before sporting events. The kitchen focuses on hearty favorites such as chicken parma, steak sandwiches, and porterhouse steak, often noted for generous portions and careful cooking. Service is described as attentive and welcoming. The atmosphere becomes especially lively and energetic on event days.

Melbourne Cellar Door is a relaxed wine bar and eatery offering an extensive selection of local and imported wines alongside craft beers. The menu focuses on share plates, mains, and pizzas with fresh flavors. Attentive staff and a welcoming vibe make it well suited to groups and casual catch-ups.