5 hottest bars in Melbourne

1. The Everleigh

Timelessly while away the hours

Like your cocktails classy? They don’t come more classic than at The Everleigh, a 1920’s American-themed speakeasy. This sexy establishment boasts vintage chandeliers, beautiful tiles and a golden candle-lit glow. But fear not, in true Aussie style, you’ll enjoy friendly, down to earth service rather than the snobbery that pervades many other top western bars. Oh, we recommend a Don’t Give Up The Ship, with vermouth, gin, Fernet Branca and orange curacao!

150-156 Gertrude St, Fitzroy

Tel: +61 (3) 9416 2229

2. Hihou

Big in Japan is also big in Melbourne

Japan is the theme of one of the city’s most stylish cocktail bars. Sitting above sister restaurant, Nama Nama, Hihou is the night bird of the two, serving spirited cocktails in magnificent surroundings to a strictly limited crowd. This is the bar equivalent of a Japanese tea ritual so expect hot towels, amazing glassware, large orbs of ice and impeccable levels of politeness. Cocktails take on a Japanese twist, there’s an amazing wine cellar and even the best in Japanese whisky. Our only advice: you have to book.

1 Flinders Ln Tel: +61 (3) 9654 5465

3. Gerald’s Bar

A Renaissance man and a well-run bar

Run by food and drinks maestro, Gerald Diffey, the man behind almost every food and drink revolution in Melbourne over the last two decades, Gerald’s Bar is small, quaint, out of the way and always humming! His latest project is probably the man’s best - and brings to life, through its fun and friendly service and staff, the very concept of a bar itself. So join a motley crue of local drinkers and enjoy old world charm in a warmly lit space. Highly recommended!

386 Rathdowne St, Carlton North Tel: +61 (3) 9349 4748

4. Lustre Bar

Bars don’t come any sweeter

A cocktail and dessert bar? Now that sounds like two of our favourite things – and they couldn’t come in a more seductive package than at Lustre Bar. Ridiculously romantic, and truly unique, it’s ideal for a first date or to rekindle that flame. Jazz, cocktails, chocolate desserts and an elegant yet unpretentious Aussie vibe are reason enough for you and your partner to hunt it down in the maze-like Melbourne Laneways and cosy up.

252 Flinders Lane Tel: +61 (3) 9671 3371

5. Rooftop Bar

The place to be seen – and see for miles

This is the view from the top! Join Melbourne’s post-work crowd on a roof-top bar that’s the city’s best point to grab your bearings. Funnily enough, it’s also a great place to get a drink for that matter. And excellent food to soak it all up. It’s fresh air, it’s fun, it’s a breathless climb up many flights of stairs and, of course, breath-taking views to revive you. Oh wait, there’s even an outdoor cinema, playing the classics. What more could you want?

Level 7 252 Swanston Street Tel: +61 (3) 9654 5394