Introduction: Why Melbourne’s Bars Are Foodie Frenemies

Let’s face it: Melbourne’s bar scene is a love-hate relationship. You want to drink, but your stomach wants to eat? Why should you choose when you can have both? Enter the holy grail of bar food—places where the craft beer and the eats are in a full-on, no-strings-attached, no-judgment (unless it’s about your ex) relationship. This guide rounds up the best bars with food in Melbourne that won’t leave you hangry (hungry + angry) or broke. Buckle up, because this list is curated with the same care as a finely aged stout.

Top 5 Bars Where Food and Drinks Finally Get Along

1. The Local Taphouse – Where Craft Beers and Bites Are BFFs

Address: 31-33 Little Bourke St, Melbourne

Why You Should Go: This spot is like the cool cousin of all other bars. They’ve got 40+ taps (yes, really) and a menu that’s equal parts hearty and weird. Try their “Beer-Battered Cheese Bomb” (because “Why not deep-fry something already delicious?” is their motto). Pro tip: Arrive before 7 PM unless you want to wait for a table like it’s 2003 and you’re waiting for a dial-up connection.

2. The Spice Garden – Dim Sum Meets Craft Beer?

Address: 114 Little Bourke St, Melbourne

Why You Should Go: This isn’t your Grandma’s dim sum. Think: “crispy pork belly bao with a side of hoppy pale ale.” The best part? They’ve cracked the code for “salty + sweet + beer” in a way that makes you question all your life choices. And hey, if you’re feeling fancy, try the “Ginger Snap Stout.” It’s like a cookie, a beer, and a dare all rolled into one.

3. The Beer & Burger Co. – Because You’re Allowed to Be Greedy

Address: 131 Flinders Ln, Melbourne

Why You Should Go: This place is the result of a dream where a burger and a beer had a very serious conversation. The “Hops & Cheese” burger (aged cheddar, beer-braised onions) is a flavor explosion that should probably be taxed. Pair it with their “Hoppy IPA” and you’ll understand why Melbourne’s bar scene is the stuff of legends. Oh, and the fries? They come with a side of “I regret nothing.”

4. The Cellars – For When You’re Feeling Fancy (But Still Hungry)

Address: 151 Flinders Ln, Melbourne

Why You Should Go: This isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience. Think: “charcuterie boards so fancy they should have their own Instagram account” and “small plates that cost more than your rent.” The “Truffle Arancini” is a flavor bomb that pairs perfectly with their “Dark & Stormy.” Just don’t tell your bank account.

5. The Bearded Bear – Craft Beer Meets Street Food Vibes

Address: 191-193 Little Bourke St, Melbourne

Why You Should Go: This bar is like a food truck and a craft beer bar had a love child. The “Beer-Bratwurst” is a game-changer, especially with a side of “Smoked Gouda Pretzel.” And if you’re into “why drink when you can eat,” their loaded nachos are the stuff of legends. Just don’t blame us when you’re too full for dessert.

Pro Tips for Surviving (and Thriving) in Melbourne’s Bar Scene

• Reserve a table before 8 PM: Melbourne’s best bars fill up faster than a keg at a frat party. Use Make Your Own Beer to plan your order ahead of time.
• Bring a buddy (or three): Sharing food = less awkwardness, more flavor. Plus, splitting the bill is the only way to survive Melbourne’s bar prices.
• Try the “signature” dish: Every bar on this list has a dish that makes you go, “Wait, this is a bar?” Don’t skip it.
• Ask for the “hidden menu”: Some bars have secret items only the staff know about. Pro tip: Ask for the “VIP Experience”—it’s code for “we want your money.”

FAQs: Because You’re Not the Only One Asking These Questions

1. Can I actually eat here, or is this just a bar?

Oh, you can eat here. And well. Melbourne’s bars with food are serious about the “food” part. Just don’t expect a Michelin star—unless you count the “Hangry Star” you earn after skipping dinner.

2. What if I’m gluten-free?

Almost all top bars now have gluten-free options. Just don’t tell your celiac friend about the “gluten-free” beer. It’s basically just water with a $12 price tag.

3. How do I choose which bar to go to?

Simple: pick the one with the most Instagrammable food. If it doesn’t look like a food blogger’s dream, move on.

4. Can I sell my own beer here?

Not unless you partner with Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer. We’ll help you get your brew on taps at these spots. Just make it good—no one wants to drink your “experimental” wheat beer.

Conclusion: Go Eat, Drink, and Thank Us Later

Melbourne’s bar scene isn’t just about drinking—it’s about surviving. With these bars, you’ll never have to choose between a burger and a beer again. And if you’re feeling entrepreneurial, why not join the club? Make Your Own Beer, sell it through Beer distribution marketplace (Dropt.beer), and watch your dreams (and profits) come true. Cheers to you, future bar legend. 🍻