BARS
Melbourne's drinking culture embraces hidden bars and hole-in-the-wall offerings – down city laneways and alleys – where location, furnishings and atmosphere are as much the focus as the drinks. Worried your money will all go on boutique beers and fancy cocktail straws? Never fear, there's plenty of big fun, low budget options in Melbourne town. From grungy alley bars to sleek, up-market lounges – every taste is catered for.
The Order of Melbourne
Opposite the RMIT campus, this sleek bar draws in a student crowd, as well as the after-work set. Enjoy alfresco drinks on the roof terrace.
Horse Bazaar
Film nights, trivia night, retro game nights. This bar has them all. Venture inside, order a pot of ale and loose yourself in the indoor beer garden.
Cherry
The crowd is bohemian, the tunes are on vinyl, and the attitude is cool. Pack your treasure map to find this warehouse-style basement bar.
The Melbourne Supper Club
Leather chesterfield couches and dark wood make this a cosy winter hideaway – a place to enjoy lovely wine, fine snacks and conversation.
Purple Turtle
Live bands, pool tables and good food make this upmarket public bar a popular drinking spot. Live music features four nights a week.
Hairy Canary
With a small cosy bar atmosphere, this place is a tempting spot to indulge in cocktails squeezed from and shaken with the freshest ingredients.
