Raise Your Glasses to the 13 Best Secret Bars in Melbourne
Melbourne’s bar scene is brimming with secrets waiting to be discovered. From speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors to quirky themed bars tucked away in laneways, the city is home to some of the most unique drinking spots you’ll ever experience.
There’s something exhilarating about stepping into an unassuming space and finding a world of cocktails, ambiance, and creativity. Whether you’re a fan of vintage decor or experimental drinks, Melbourne’s secret bars offer it all.
We’ve sipped and savored our way through the city to bring you a guide to the best hidden gems for your next night out.
These bars don’t just serve drinks – they’re experiences in themselves. Bonus points if you manage to find them on your first try (but honestly, getting a little lost is part of the fun).
Eau De Vie
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Location: Basement/1 Malthouse Ln
Contact: +61 3 8393 9367
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Eau De Vie transports you to the 1920s with its secretive entrance and opulent interiors. The atmosphere is perfect for intimate gatherings or a sophisticated night out.
Like the Smoky Rob Roy, their theatrical cocktails are as much a feast for the eyes as the palate. For whiskey aficionados, the private whiskey room offers a curated selection of rare blends.
The knowledgeable staff ensures every drink is tailored to your preferences, adding to the exclusivity.
Pro Tip:
Reserve your table in advance and arrive early for a prime seat near the bar to watch the mixologists in action.
The Croft Institute
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Location: 21 Croft Alley
Contact: +61 3 9671 4399
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Hidden in a graffiti-filled laneway, The Croft Institute is a science-lab-themed bar that’s equal parts eerie and exciting. Its unique decor includes vintage lab equipment and an upstairs gymnasium-inspired space.
The drink menu is as creative as the setting, featuring cocktails served in beakers and syringes. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between quirky fun and cozy charm.
Whether you’re exploring with friends or out for an adventurous night, this bar’s concept and unconventional vibe make it unforgettable. It’s a great choice for Instagram-worthy moments and inventive drinks.
Pro Tip:
Order the syringe shots for a playful addition to your night. Don’t also miss exploring both floors for different vibes!
Goldilocks Bar
– Media credit: goldilocksrooftopbar
Location: Level 4/264 Swanston St
Contact: +61 3 9078 8114
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Goldilocks Bar is a whimsical rooftop retreat hidden above Swanston Street. Its cozy ambiance and fairy-tale theme create a charming escape from the city’s hustle.
With its delightful view of the city, this venue is ideal for enjoying cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere. The bar’s cocktail menu changes with the seasons, offering fresh, locally inspired creations.
The relaxed vibe and intimate setting make it a favorite for after-work drinks or quiet weekend evenings.
Pro Tip:
Visit at sunset for stunning rooftop views and order the bartender’s choice for a personalized cocktail.
The Everleigh
– Media credit: theeverleigh
Location: Level 1/150-156 Gertrude St
Contact: +61 3 9416 2229
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Everleigh pays homage to the golden age of cocktails with its elegant decor and classic mixology. The vintage furnishings and soft lighting create a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance.
The menu celebrates timeless cocktails, with every drink made to perfection using premium ingredients. For those unsure of what to order, the “bartender’s choice” offers a customized drink tailored to your preferences.
Perfect for date nights or special occasions, this bar is a must-visit for fans of expertly crafted drinks. The attention to detail extends from the cocktails to the impeccable service.
Pro Tip:
Request a seat at the bar to watch the expert mixologists in action. It makes the experience so much better.
Additionally, don’t forget to try their signature martini! It’s chilled to the perfect temperature and balanced with precise dilution.
Beneath Driver Lane
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Location: Basement/3 Driver Ln
Contact: +61 3 9639 7630
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Beneath Driver Lane offers a cozy retreat in a former bank vault, complete with exposed brick walls and a vintage industrial vibe. The ambiance feels both intimate and exclusive, making it a perfect spot for late-night drinks.
The bar specializes in whiskey, with an extensive selection from around the globe. But they also serve some expertly crafted cocktails.
For food lovers, their toasted cheese sandwiches are a comforting and indulgent addition to the experience.
Live blues music on select nights adds to the charm, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding with friends or enjoying a unique date night.
Pro Tip:
Try their signature Old Fashioned or order a whiskey flight to explore the wide variety of options.
State of Grace
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Location: 477 Collins St
Contact: +61 3 9248 9800
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
State of Grace has a hidden basement bar accessed through a secret bookshelf called Fall from Grace. The entrance itself is an exciting start to an evening of mystery and indulgence.
Inside, you’ll find an elegant space with a chic yet comfortable vibe that’s ideal for both small groups and romantic evenings. The cocktail menu features inventive creations and modern twists on classics, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
The exclusivity and charm of this venue make it a standout in Melbourne’s bar scene. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and intimate drinking experience.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to explore the upstairs bar and enjoy the seamless transition to this hidden gem.
Bar Americano
– Media credit: baramericano
Location: 20 Presgrave Pl
Contact: +61 412 825 441
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Bar Americano is a standing-room-only venue tucked away in a laneway, offering a minimalist yet sophisticated drinking experience. The space is inspired by the classic American bars of the 1930s, with a focus on craftsmanship and quality.
The menu rotates daily, ensuring every visit offers something new and exciting. The knowledgeable staff are passionate about mixology and will guide you to your perfect drink.
Its compact size adds to its charm, making it a cozy and intimate spot for solo drinkers or small groups. It’s the perfect stop for those who appreciate expertly made classic cocktails.
Pro Tip:
Visit during off-peak hours (between 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm during weekdays and after 10:00 pm during weekends!) for a more relaxed experience in this small but mighty venue.
Jungle Boy
– Media credit: jungleboybar
Location: 96 Chapel St (Behind Boston Sub)
Contact: +61 3 9942 0616
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Jungle Boy is a hidden tiki bar that you access through a freezer door at Boston Sub, adding a playful twist to your night out. Inside, the vibrant decor and tropical vibes transport you to an island paradise.
The cocktail menu features fruity, colorful drinks that pack a flavorful punch, including classics like Mai Tais and Zombies. The laid-back ambiance makes it a fun spot for casual nights with friends or a unique first date.
The friendly staff and light-hearted atmosphere create a welcoming experience that will leave you smiling. It’s a lively escape from the typical bar scene.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss their happy hour specials! They’re typically hosted between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
Union Electric Bar
– Media credit: unionelectricbar
Location: 13 Heffernan Ln
Contact: +61 3 9650 4288
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Union Electric Bar is a vibrant rooftop spot tucked into a Chinatown laneway, offering a menu that celebrates gin in all its forms. The Asian-inspired flavors, such as Kaffir Lime Pie and Lychee Martinis, set this bar apart from the rest.
The rooftop gin garden is a highlight, providing a cozy space under the stars to enjoy your drink. Its relaxed vibe and creative cocktail list make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
With its approachable staff and inventive drinks, Union Electric is an excellent choice for both casual and celebratory nights out.
Pro Tip:
Ask for a customized gin cocktail to suit your mood, and try the rooftop during golden hour for stunning city views.
Berlin Bar
– Media credit: berlinbarmelbourne
Location: Level 2/16 Corrs Ln
Contact: +61 3 9639 3396
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Berlin Bar is an immersive experience divided into two distinct sections: East and West Berlin. The East features a gritty, industrial design, while the West offers plush seating and a luxurious vibe.
The cocktail menu matches the creativity of the decor, with themed drinks inspired by Berlin’s rich history. Each drink is a story in itself, combining bold flavors with unique presentations.
This duality in design and drinks creates a thought-provoking and enjoyable evening. It’s perfect for small groups who want a mix of fun and cultural intrigue.
Pro Tip:
Reserve a table ahead of time for guaranteed entry, especially on weekends.
Above Board
– Media credit: aboveboardbarmelb
Location: 1/306 Smith St, Collingwood
Contact: +61 3 8394 9673
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Above Board is a minimalist cocktail bar hidden above Smith Street, focusing on precision and simplicity. The intimate space, designed with clean lines and an open bar setup, allows guests to witness the artistry of cocktail-making.
Their menu changes seasonally, featuring thoughtfully curated drinks crafted with premium ingredients. Every cocktail is a masterpiece of flavor and balance, served with the utmost care and attention to detail.
The small, exclusive setting creates an intimate and personal experience, ideal for quiet conversations or a refined date night. The spot is a true testament to Melbourne’s sophisticated bar scene.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss their rotating seasonal specials! Their bartenders will gladly recommend something that matches your vibe and preference, so don’t be shy to ask.
Trinket
– Media credit: trinketmelbourne
Location: 87 Flinders Ln
Contact: +61 3 9639 4944
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Trinket hides a secret world beneath its glamorous main bar. Behind a wardrobe door lies a dimly lit basement adorned with vintage decor and cozy seating.
The cocktail menu is as whimsical as the venue, with creative concoctions served in imaginative glassware. Whether you’re sipping on a Sweet Temptation or their signature vintage-inspired martini, the experience feels decadent and exclusive.
The venue’s upstairs is perfect for casual catch-ups, while the hidden basement is ideal for intimate dates or small group gatherings. It’s a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from laid-back to luxe.
Pro Tip:
Ask the bartender about Trinket’s wardrobe entrance, hidden features for insider stories, and secret menu items.
New Gold Mountain
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Location: Level 1/21 Liverpool St
Contact: +61 3 9650 9388
Operating hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
New Gold Mountain is a hidden treasure tucked above Chinatown. Its opulent interior blends modern aesthetics with traditional Chinese influences, featuring intricate lanterns and vibrant colors.
The drinks menu is a mix of classic and innovative cocktails, with options tailored to suit both adventurous and traditional palates. Their mixologists craft each drink with precision, ensuring a memorable sip every time.
This venue’s intimate setting and lush decor make it perfect for date nights or small, sophisticated gatherings. It’s a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the bustle of the city below.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to secure a corner seat with views of the vibrant decor and enjoy their expertly made negroni.