Why This List Exists: Because Google Can’t Pick Bars Fast Enough
Look, we’ve all been there: it’s Friday night, the group chat is blowing up with “who’s up?” and no one can agree on a bar. Is it the rooftop? The speakeasy? The place with the “cool vibes but not too cool vibes”? Spoiler: we’ve done the hard work. This list isn’t just for tourists who think “Melbourne” means “where the kangaroos hang out.” It’s for people who want to drink responsibly, laugh loudly, and maybe take a selfie that doesn’t look like a crime scene. Let’s get started.
1. The Rooftop Bar (Yes, You Need to Look Up)
Bar Name: Sky High Spirits
Address: 123 Rooftop Lane, Melbourne
Why It’s Great: Because looking down at the traffic below while sipping a $18 cocktail makes you feel like a king… or a very rich bird. This spot has panoramic views, a DJ spinning records that sound like they were made in 2007, and a menu that includes a “mystery drink” (we assume it’s the bartender’s revenge). Pro tip: Avoid the 10pm surge, unless you enjoy being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers who smell like regret.
Want to make your own drink? Check out our guide to brewing your own cocktail at home and impressing people who don’t know the difference between a martini and a manhattan. (Spoiler: you don’t.)
2. The Speakeasy (Because Why Not Knock First?)
Bar Name: Velvet Vault
Address: 456 Secret Alley, Melbourne
Why It’s Great: This place feels like a movie set for a movie no one’s made. Think jazz music, dim lighting, and bartenders who probably have a PhD in mixology. They serve a “Secret Ingredient Mojito” that’s literally just a mojito but with a side of pretentiousness. The best part? There’s a hidden room behind a bookshelf. We won’t tell you where it is—trust us, you’ll find it. (It’s the one with the velvet couch and the guy who judges your life choices.)
3. The Craft Beer Oasis (For the Hopheads)
Bar Name: Hoppy Times
Address: 789 Craft Street, Melbourne
Why It’s Great: If you’re the type of person who orders a beer by its IBU (or just orders the one with the best label art), this is your spot. The menu changes weekly, and the bartender will probably ask you if you’ve “tried the sour that tastes like sour candy but better.” Bonus points: there’s a wall of cans you can take home. (Don’t worry, the bartender won’t judge you for bringing it to your next Zoom happy hour.)
Want to create your own beer? Our custom beer service lets you design a brew that screams “I care about hops.” No, really, it’s a thing.
4. The Mixology Lab (For the Bartenders Who Think They’re Scientists)
Bar Name: The Cocktail Chemist
Address: 101 Lab Lane, Melbourne
Why It’s Great: This place is for people who want their drinks served in a beaker. The bartender will probably ask you a bunch of questions about your “flavor profile” and then make a drink that looks like it belongs in a science fair. The “Smoke and Mirrors Old Fashioned” is a must-try—or a must-avoid if you’re claustrophobic. (The smoke is real, the mirrors are metaphorical, and the bartender is definitely judging your life choices.)
5. The Wine Bar That Doesn’t Take Itself Too Seriously
Bar Name: Wine & Whine
Address: 246 Vineyard Road, Melbourne
Why It’s Great: Because sometimes you just need a pinot noir and a napkin to wipe your tears. This spot has a menu of wines that are “too expensive for your student loan debt but not too expensive for your dignity.” The staff is all about that “relatable” vibe—they’ll know your ex’s name after one conversation. (No, really. Just ask John. He’s the one with the wine-stained shirt.)
Need to sell your own bar’s drinks online? Dropt.beer has got your back. No, we’re not paid to say that—we’re just paid to say that we’re not paid.
FAQs: Because You Probably Have Questions (We’re Not Answering Them)
Q: Are these bars open on Tuesdays?
A: Yes, but only if you’re dressed like you belong. (Hint: that’s not your pajamas.)
Q: Can I take a dog?
A: No. Unless it’s a service dog. Or a very small human. We’re not judging.
Q: Is there a bar for people who just want to sit quietly and drink?
A: Sure. Just go to any of these and ask for the “quiet table.” The staff will pretend they don’t see you.
Final Thoughts: Go Forth and Drink Responsibly (Mostly)
There you have it: the top 5 bars in Melbourne. Remember, the goal is to have fun, not to end up on someone’s Instagram story with a blurry photo and a caption that starts with “When I’m drunk…” If you need help figuring out which bar fits your vibe next time, check out our guide to finding the perfect bar or contact us for more tips that won’t cost you more than a $15 Uber ride home.
And hey, if you’re planning to start your own bar or brew your own drinks, we’re here to help. (No, really—we’re not just trying to sell you things. We’re just trying to make you things. And then sell them. But not too much.) Cheers!
