Melbourne’s laneways are famous for their art, eateries, and hidden gems, but among the best-kept secrets are its hidden laneway bars. These tucked-away spots offer a unique experience and a taste of Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife. If you’re up for an adventure, here’s a guide to some of the most intriguing hidden laneway bars in Melbourne. Grab a friend or two, and prepare to discover Melbourne from a whole new perspective!
Located in a tiny space off Presgrave Place, Bar Americano is inspired by the classic cocktail bars of Italy. Despite its size, this place is big on charm, with expert bartenders crafting Italian-inspired cocktails with flair. You won’t find large crowds here, just a cozy, intimate spot to enjoy a carefully crafted drink.
Address: 20 Presgrave Pl, Melbourne
Best For: Classic cocktails in a tiny, timeless setting
Section 8 is Melbourne’s ultimate industrial-style bar, set up in an open-air shipping container in Tattersalls Lane. This bar offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe with a mix of graffiti-covered walls, crate seating, and DJs spinning tunes. It’s a favorite among locals for a drink after work or a weekend hangout spot with friends.
Address: 27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne
Best For: Casual vibes and live DJ sets
Hidden behind a secret door in State of Grace restaurant, Fall from Grace is an underground speakeasy with a grand, vintage-inspired style. It’s accessible only through a sliding bookshelf, adding a bit of mystery and charm to your night out. Inside, you’ll find plush seating, chandeliers, and an extensive drink menu to satisfy any taste.
Address: 27 King St, Melbourne
Best For: A secret speakeasy experience
Down a staircase in a former bank vault on Driver Lane, this bar offers a speakeasy-style experience that transports you back in time. With exposed brick walls, leather seating, and a jazz soundtrack, Beneath Driver Lane feels like an escape from the city above. Their specialty cocktails and range of whiskeys make it a must-visit for cocktail lovers.
Address: Basement/3 Driver Ln, Melbourne
Best For: Whiskey and speakeasy vibes
Romeo Lane is a charming laneway bar that serves up classic cocktails with a twist. Nestled off Crossley Street, the bar is cozy and romantic, ideal for a relaxed drink or date night. The staff’s attention to detail and passion for mixing quality drinks make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Address: 1A Crossley St, Melbourne
Best For: Romantic atmosphere and refined cocktails
Hidden behind the fridge door of Boston Sub in Windsor, Jungle Boy is a tropical-themed bar with lush décor and refreshing tiki cocktails. It’s a fun and quirky place where you can step into a different world, making it perfect for an adventurous night out. From rum-based drinks to tropical vibes, Jungle Boy is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Address: 96 Chapel St, Windsor
Best For: Tropical cocktails and a hidden entrance
On top of a nondescript building in Chinatown, Goldilocks Bar offers a rooftop escape with great views and creative cocktails. With fairy lights, cozy seating, and a playful cocktail menu, it’s a hidden spot that’s ideal for a chill evening with friends. It’s also environmentally conscious, using fresh, local ingredients in their drinks.
Address: 4/264 Swanston St, Melbourne
Best For: Rooftop views and eco-friendly cocktails
A hidden gem tucked away in Malthouse Lane, Eau de Vie feels like stepping back into the 1920s. This bar combines a speakeasy vibe with masterfully crafted cocktails. Known for its theatrical presentation, drinks here often come with fire, smoke, or other special effects that make your experience memorable.
Address: 1 Malthouse Ln, Melbourne
Best For: Theatrical cocktails and 1920s ambiance
Located in a secluded laneway off Chinatown, The Croft Institute is an eccentric bar styled like a science lab. With beakers, test tubes, and a “hospital”-themed upstairs, it’s a quirky place for an unusual night out. The cocktails are experimental, and the setting is one of the most unique you’ll find in Melbourne.
Address: 21 Croft Alley, Melbourne
Best For: A quirky, lab-themed experience
Union Electric is a vibrant, unpretentious bar in Heffernan Lane known for its gin and whiskey-focused cocktails. The vibe here is upbeat, with rooftop seating and an eclectic menu that includes fun cocktails and local brews. The bartenders here are known for their creativity, making it an exciting spot for a unique drink.
Address: 13 Heffernan Ln, Melbourne
Best For: Gin, whiskey, and creative cocktails
Exploring Melbourne’s hidden laneway bars is an adventure that combines discovering great drinks with the thrill of uncovering secret spots. Here are a few tips to make your experience even better:
With so many hidden laneway bars to explore, you’ll get to experience Melbourne’s nightlife in a whole new way. Whether you’re into classic cocktails, quirky themes, or rooftop views, these secret bars add a touch of mystery and excitement to any night out. So grab a map (or a friend who knows the area), and start exploring Melbourne’s hidden laneways!
