Melbourne’s bar scene is legendary — hidden laneways and rooftop terraces, sleek cocktail dens and natural wine bars that feel more like neighbourhood hangouts. It’s a city where creativity pours into every glass, whether it’s a classic martini done to perfection, a new-wave craft beer, or a sake spritz in a neon-lit basement. From late-night energy in the CBD to low-key favourites in Fitzroy and Collingwood, Melbourne has a bar for every mood.
The CoolList guide to the best bars in Melbourne
Afloat – Melbourne CBD
Afloat is a seasonal open-air bar and eatery on the Yarra River in Melbourne, offering themed menus, rooftop views, DJ sets and a lively atmosphere in warmer months.
Builders Arms Hotel – Fitzroy
The Builders Arms Hotel in Fitzroy combines historic pub charm with produce-driven European cooking, a wine-focused dining room, craft drinks and distinct spaces including a back garden and an art-filled front bar.
El Columpio – Fitzroy
A bright Fitzroy spot with Spanish and Latin American inspiration, offering a rotating menu of snacks and cocktails. Open from 10:00am on weekends, it's ideal for brunch, dinner or late drinks.
Embla – Melbourne CBD
Embla in Melbourne is a wood-fired wine bar serving minimalist plates and natural wines in a moody, timber-clad room with a relaxed, design-conscious atmosphere.
Grossi Florentino – Melbourne CBD
Grossi Florentino in Melbourne offers Italian fine dining with seasonal Australian produce, an extensive wine list and three distinct spaces, including the mural-lined dining room and casual Cellar Bar.
Juni – Melbourne CBD
Inspired by Japanese izakayas, Juni in Melbourne’s CBD serves precise small plates and curated drinks until midnight every night, all in a sleek, minimalist setting.
Leonard’s House of Love – South Yarra
Leonard’s House of Love in South Yarra channels 1970s American dive bar style, serving craft beer, classic bar food and hosting DJs in a log cabin setting with a leafy beer garden.
Mr Mills – Melbourne CBD
Tucked down a laneway in Melbourne’s CBD, Mr Mills pairs sharp cocktails and small plates with a late-night shift in energy, moving from after-work drinks to DJ-led sessions by the weekend.
Nobody’s Baby – South Yarra
Nobody’s Baby is a South Yarra bar from the Bar Liberty and Capitano team, offering spirit-forward cocktails, considered snacks and a plush, velvet-heavy setting built for long evenings.
Siglo – Melbourne CBD
Siglo is a rooftop bar above Melbourne’s Spring Street offering European-style light food, classic cocktails, cigars and views of Parliament House. It stays open late and attracts a well-dressed, post-show crowd.
