{"state":"VIC","region":"Victoria","count":50,"typeColors":{"Bar":"#d1f7c4","Club":"#eaeaea","Cocktail Bar":"#cfdfff","Dive Bar":"#d0f0fd","Hi Fi Bar":"#ede2fe","Hotel Bar":"#fee2d5","Live Music Bar":"#c2f5e9","Other":"#9cc7ff","Pub":"#ffdce5","Restaurant Bar":"#ffeab6","Wine Bar":"#ffdaf4","Whisky Bar":"#77d1f3","Agave Bar":"#72ddc3","Rum Bar":"#93e088","Tiki Bar":"#ffd66e","Amaro Bar":"#cfdfff","Hifi Bar":"#d0f0fd","Gin Bar":"#8b46ff"},"bars":[{"id":"rec8jNbYcq6tytbuh","rank":1,"name":"Three Horses, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"106 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@threehorsesbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Three+Horses+106+Little+Lonsdale+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://threehorses.bar","owners":"Matt Stirling, Ryan Noreiks & Rob Libecans (Caretaker's Cottage crew)","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"Three Horses is a cocktail bar built on a love for sherry, with an emphasis on the kind of hospitality that made their first bar, Caretaker’s Cottage, world famous; there is also a relentless focus on getting the details right, creating atmosphere, and backing that all up with smart design.\nThe sophomore effort from Rob Libecans, Matt Stirling, and Ryan Noreiks, Three Horses has quickly become a favourite of Victoria’s hospitality scene, scooping up three trophies at the 2026 Boothby Best Bars Victoria Awards: Best New Bar presented by Bacardi, Best Cocktail Bar presented by Perrier, and Best Bar in Victoria presented by Never Never.","awards":"2026 Best Bar presented by Never Never | 2026 Best Cocktail Bar presented by Perrier | 2026 Best New Bar presented by Bacardi\n","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Three-Horses-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"rec7y9De3PxP7zVvi","rank":2,"name":"Caretaker's Cottage, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"139–141 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@caretakers.cottage","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Caretakers+Cottage+139+Little+Lonsdale+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://caretakerscottage.bar","owners":"Matt Stirling, Ryan Noreiks & Rob Libecans","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2022,"description":"Caretaker’s is subtle, in its way: the lights, the sound, the timber — everything conveys warmth, just like its hospitality. Co-owners Rob Libecans, Matt Stirling, and Ryan Noreiks don’t shout their hospo pedigree to the world, though they’ve all worked at some of the world’s best bars. The place is small inside, so you’re up close and personal with the bartenders making your drinks behind the bar, which also functions as a DJ booth: an expensive looking record player setup is embedded along one side of the bar, with stacks of vinyl set on the back bar beneath two large, warm-sounding golden speakers. The drinks menu changes monthly, but you’ll always find an excellent, properly cold Martini made with their own custom gin, and one of the best pints of Guinness anywhere — it’s makes for quite the fancy Boilermaker. ","awards":"2026 Best Hospitality Team presented by Campari Academy","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Caretakers.jpg"]},{"id":"reczbk5Z05aXHlSGi","rank":3,"name":"Bar Bellamy, Carlton","suburb":"Carlton","city":"","address":"164 Rathdowne St, Carlton VIC 3053","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@bar.bellamy","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Bellamy+164+Rathdowne+St+Carlton+VIC","website":"https://barbellamy.com","owners":"Dani & Oska Whitehart","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2023,"description":"This neighbourhood cocktail joint goes from strength to strength, Bar Bellamy brings together everything good about cocktails, drinking, and hospitality in one small neighbourhood space. The drinks list changes regularly — once the prep or a particular ingredient for a drink is done, they retire the drink and move onto the next, delicious cocktail. They’re also home to some great food — hence the title of Best Bar Eats in 2025.","awards":"2026 Best Bar Eats VIC presented by Estrella Damm | Danielle Whitehart — 2026 Person of the Year presented by Jack Daniel's Bonded","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Bar-Bellamy.jpg"]},{"id":"recAzWbDYRDKFxz5f","rank":4,"name":"Hands Down, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"139–141 Greeves St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@handsdownmelbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Hands+Down+139+Greeves+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://handsdownmelbourne.com","owners":"Dominic Xavier, Hayden Lambert & Manu Potoi (Above Board / Bar Liberty)","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"Setting up shop in the Greeves Street space that once played home to Bad Frankie, Hands Down channels a euro vibe, with continental-inspired drinks and wood panelled interiors — a neighbourhood social bar of sorts (just with outstanding drinks) from co-owners Dominic Xavier, Hayden Lambert (Above Board), and Manu Potoi (Above Board, Bar Liberty).","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/HANDS-DOWN-10.jpg"]},{"id":"recKoEm25ejOFbFd5","rank":5,"name":"One Or Two, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"18 Celestial Ave, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@one.or.two.melb","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=One+or+Two+18+Celestial+Ave+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://oneortwo.com.au","owners":"Andy Chu","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2022,"description":"Owner and bartender Andy Chu has worked some of the city’s best bars, and knows how to put liquids together in delicious and inventive ways; the 26-seat cocktail bar opposite Chinatown staple Supper Inn is an intimate, dark, minimalist space where Chu and another bartender craft cocktails of the highest standard. Each visit brings something new and delicious to drink, which is perhaps why, on any given visit, there’s usually an off-duty bartender from a nearby bar sat at in front of Chu going about his work. \n","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/ONE_OR_TWO_20260720_M1008087_CREDIT_KRISTOFFER_PAULSEN.jpg"]},{"id":"recXF4MrAR9yeAc1P","rank":6,"name":"Pendant Public Bar, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"334 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@pendant.publicbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Pendant+Public+Bar+334+Brunswick+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://pendantpublicbar.com","owners":"Belinda Linton & Luke Kelly","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"This Brunswick St newcomer feels like it has been here a long time. Pendant Public Bar is a neighbourhood cocktail bar but with a pub front bar feel; it has quickly become part of the local hospo scene’s regular rotation. The cocktails here are as good as you get anywhere — co-owners Belinda Linton and Luke Kelly have The Everleigh on their resumes — and you’ll be able to sip on those while you wait for a well poured Guinness.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Pendant-Public-Bar.png"]},{"id":"recXbQWsd4hfHLiFt","rank":7,"name":"Bar Selecta, Hawthorn","suburb":"","city":"","address":"Rear 717 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@barselecta.au","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Selecta+717+Glenferrie+Rd+Hawthorn+VIC","website":"https://barselecta.co","owners":"Joey Tai, Masaki Hisaike, Kelvin Low, Adam Ong, Michael & Eleena Tan","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"Billed as a neighbourhood Tokyo-style listening bar and inspired by co-owner and designer Michael Tan’s visits to Japan, Bar Selecta has a big focus on creating an immersive music experience, they say, but they’ve paired that with a drinks program from two of Melbourne’s leading cocktail and whisky minds, co-owners Joey Tai and Kelvin Low (The Elysian Whisky Bar). Expect smart cocktails, an emphasis on whisky, and knowledgeable sake service from fellow owner Masa Hisaike (ex-Casa de Vinos).","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1280/format/webp/2025/07/DSC00992.jpg"]},{"id":"reckJJAMQSiRJND8s","rank":8,"name":"Above Board, Collingwood","suburb":"","city":"","address":"Level 1, 306 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@aboveboardbarmelb","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Above+Board+306+Smith+St+Collingwood+VIC","website":"https://aboveboardbar.com","owners":"Hayden Lambert & Manu Potoi","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2016,"description":"Located at the end of Chopper Lane, and sitting above a beer bar, you’ll find one of Australia’s best regarded cocktail bars. Helmed by veteran bartender, Hayden Lambert, at Above Board it’s all about old school cocktailing; minimal ingredients, cocktails built in the classic style, an emphasis on banter and hospitality in a small, intimate, beautifully designed space. ","awards":"2026 All Time Great presented by Club Suntory","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/Above-Board-interior-pic.jpg"]},{"id":"recREhvXWn0mwgNld","rank":9,"name":"Apollo Inn, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"165 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@apolloinn.bar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Apollo+Inn+165+Flinders+Lane+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://apolloinn.bar","owners":"Trader House — Andrew McConnell & Jo McGann","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2023,"description":"Despite having opened in 2023, Apollo Inn already feels like it’s part of the bar world firmament. It’s an offshoot of the highly regarded restaurant from the Trader House group, Gimlet, with an expert team of bartenders on hand mixing smart takes on classic cocktails, and a chef back there with the bartenders plating up the kind of bar food that’ll have you cancelling dinner plans: think fresh shucked oysters, seafood, and charcuterie and you’re on the right track. ","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/Apollo-Inn-Jo-McGann-HR.jpg"]},{"id":"rec7dERkkwoDNa6TT","rank":10,"name":"Babines, Collingwood","suburb":"","city":"","address":"108 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@babines.au","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Babines+108+Smith+St+Collingwood+VIC","website":"https://babines.com.au","owners":"Julien Wurtlin & Julien Pascal","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"Babines is set in an industrial space suited to the area, where co-owners Julien Wurtlin and Julien Pascal are blending modern Australian hospitality with their French roots; Wurtlin has Lui Bar and Byrdi on his resume, whilst Pascal started his career as a chef in Michelin-starred kitchens, before moving to high end cocktail bars in London and Paris (and then turning his attention to coffee after arriving in Melbourne). Expect house made ingredients, interesting flavour combinations, and high-end technique in an otherwise neighbourhood cocktail bar setting.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/BABINES.jpg"]},{"id":"recSZ6lVw1IPiQKmf","rank":11,"name":"Daisy, Geelong","suburb":"","city":"","address":"4 Shorts Pl, Geelong VIC 3220","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@daisygeelong","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Daisy+4+Shorts+Pl+Geelong+VIC","website":"https://daisybar.com.au","owners":"","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"Opening in 2024, Daisy is a characterful addition to the Geelong cocktail bar scene. You’ll find quality cocktails here at this basement bar from owners Alistair Bullock and Alex Brownbridge, which takes its name from the Daisy category of cocktails (under which the Margarita is classified). Half a dozen signature cocktails lean into big approachable flavours, while a short and sharp classics section offers up a Toreador alongside their House Martini.","awards":"The Best Bar in Geelong","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/DAISY.jpg"]},{"id":"rechJzd2xt29m3Css","rank":12,"name":"Byrdi, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"211 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@byrdimelb","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Byrdi+211+La+Trobe+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://byrdi.com.au","owners":"Luke Whearty & Aki Nishikura","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2019,"description":"Byrdi sees bartender and owner Luke Whearty at the height of his powers. At Byrdi, he celebrates and showcases Victorian produce in innovative ways, with drinks menus that change with the seasons (one of which was named the 2022 Drinks List of the Year). Head bartender Samuel Thornhill has picked up the accolades as well — named Bartender of the Year in 2024 at the Drink of the Year Awards, he also took out the number one drink of 2023. Put simply, this is elevated, delicious drinking. ","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/BYRDI_011.jpeg"]},{"id":"rec7orayL08zsZxuN","rank":13,"name":"Goodwater, Northcote","suburb":"","city":"","address":"300 High St, Northcote VIC 3070","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@goodwater.melbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Goodwater+300+High+St+Northcote+VIC","website":"https://goodwater.melbourne","owners":"Nathaniel White, Cara Devine, Fred Siggins, Yao Wong, Kia Rasteh","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"Goodwater comes from a bar industry supergroup of sorts: led by Nathaniel White (ex-Angel’s Envy), Cara Devine (Behind The Bar on YouTube, ex-Bomba — and the Boothby Victoria Person of the Year 2023), drinks writer and bartender Fred Siggins (Whisky & Alement, Black Pearl), Yao Wong (co-owner of The Elysian Whisky Bar), bar manager John Hallett (ex-The Everleigh), April Hudson (The Keys), and Kia Rasteh, who owns American whiskey retail site, Honey Barrel. The result? There’s really good stuff to drink here — if North American whiskey is your thing, this is your bar — and the best damn bar snacks around.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Goodwater.jpg"]},{"id":"reci36Yzxf54hv002","rank":14,"name":"The Elysian Whisky Bar, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"113 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@theelysianwhiskybar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Elysian+Whisky+Bar+113+Brunswick+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://theelysianwhiskybar.com.au","owners":"Kelvin Low & Yao Wong","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2016,"description":"Owners Kelvin Low and Yao Wong are big fans of whisky, and they’ve cobbled together a collection of hard to find, rare and special whiskies that has made the place a destination for whisky lovers and novices alike. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down at the bar, they’ll open bottles for you to sniff, and talk you through your choices; each visit is an education in deliciousness.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/The-Elysian-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"recdJLMakzePzmndo","rank":15,"name":"Hats & Tatts, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"1/246 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@hatsandtatts","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Hats+and+Tatts+246+Russell+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"","owners":"Jason Chan","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2015,"description":"Hats & Tatts is loud, it’s raucous, it’s a little divey — so you know it’s going to be a good time. Since the bar closed up its South Melbourne digs and moved to the big smoke of the CBD, they’ve added in a rooftop, but their play hard drink better ethos remains.\n","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2023/09/0db6a80a67af-88545D6E_2B31_4D8A_AA6A_38D99DC85E25.jpeg"]},{"id":"recONEgmMTUXNeUvK","rank":16,"name":"Whisky & Alement, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"270 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@whiskyandalement","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Whisky+and+Alement+270+Russell+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://whiskyandalement.com","owners":"Julian White & Brooke Hayman","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2010,"description":"Whisky nerds and novices alike are sorted at Whisky & Alement, the award-winning Melbourne whisky bar owned by Brooke Hayman and Julian White. Now some 14 years old, the bar possesses an up-beat and buzzy atmosphere, and whether you’re keen to dive deep into single malts, discover a heretofore unknown dram, or just knock back the whisky and have a good time, Whisky & Alement does it all. ","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/WHISKY---ALEMENT-2-.jpg"]},{"id":"recNB2364ucpvye9C","rank":17,"name":"Napier Quarter, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"359 Napier St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@napier_quarter","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Napier+Quarter+359+Napier+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://napierquarter.com.au","owners":"Daniel Lewis & Simon Benjamin","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2016,"description":"This Fitzroy espresso and wine bar trades from the morning until late, with good things to eat and smart, distinctive drops to be had on the wine list. There’s a cosy feel inside, but you’ll want a sunny day and a spot out on the street.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/Napier-Quarter-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"reczbQFednwaURBKm","rank":18,"name":"Embla, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"122 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@embla_melbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Embla+122+Russell+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://embla.com.au","owners":"Dave Verheul & Christian McCabe","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2016,"description":"Ever since Embla opened in 2016, bartenders — and hanger-on booze writer types — have been dropping into the place any chance they get. That’s because the wine and food are at a standard you might expect from far grander places, the service is smart and without pretension, the fit out is warm and inviting. Embla always offers something new to admire, whether it’s on the plate or in the glass. ","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2023/09/EMBLA_DSC2673.jpg"]},{"id":"recRkuRu6k44Gdg5j","rank":19,"name":"Black Kite Commune, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"30 Russell Place, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@blackkitecommune","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Black+Kite+Commune+30+Russell+Place+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://blackkitecommune.com","owners":"Vespertine Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2023,"description":"The fourth bar from Ben Luzz and the team behind Gin Palace, Bar Ampere, and Bijou, Black Kite Commune occupies a dark, sleek space at the bottom of Russell Place; the emphasis here is on cocktails and Australian ingredients, put together in often surprising (read: delicious) ways.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Black-Kite-Commune-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"recBuThZx1NPmTYEU","rank":20,"name":"Waxflower, Brunswick","suburb":"Brunswick","city":"","address":"153 Weston St, Brunswick VIC 3056","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@waxflowerbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Waxflower+153+Weston+St+Brunswick+VIC","website":"https://waxflowerbar.com.au","owners":"","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2021,"description":"In many good bars, it can feel like the music is something of an afterthought; not so at Brunswick’s Waxflower, where shelves upon shelves are stocked with vinyl records, sleeve to sleeve. The bar is inspired by Japanese listening bars, or kissaten, but it’s not just about the music. Wine is the focus of the drinks here, and they lean towards the natural approach, but if you’re after an aperitif-style cocktail — Martini, anyone? — you’ll be well looked after at Waxflower.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/WAXFLOWER_EXHIBITION_SPACE_200424_HIGHRES_DUNCOGRAPHIC-30--1-.jpg"]},{"id":"recvnpuZ689L38krZ","rank":21,"name":"Good Measure, Carlton","suburb":"Carlton","city":"","address":"193 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@goodmeasuremelbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Good+Measure+193+Lygon+St+Carlton+VIC","website":"https://goodmeasure.au","owners":"Max Allison, Brandon Jo & Mitchell Miller","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2021,"description":"During the daylight hours, Good Measure trades as a cafe and caffeine is the order of the day; but come the close of business, Good Measure flicks the switch into cocktail hour, becoming the kind of neighbourhood joint where the cocktails are crafted with care from local and seasonal ingredients.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/GoodMeasure.jpg"]},{"id":"recQ0qqY0RReLvFXx","rank":22,"name":"Black Pearl, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@ blackpearlfitzroy","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Black+Pearl+304+Brunswick+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://blackpearlbar.com.au","owners":"Tash Conte","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2002,"description":"Celebrating its 24th birthday this year, Black Pearl is a bar world legend. Some of the country’s best bartending talents have spent time behind the stick here, and Black Pearl practically pioneered the idea of the neighbourhood joint that just happens to be a world renowned cocktail destination. Long live the Pearl.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/Black-Pearl.jpg"]},{"id":"recOZ63RXIfzXLuRK","rank":23,"name":"Chronicles, St Kilda","suburb":"St Kilda","city":"","address":"91–93 Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@chronicles.bar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Chronicles+Bar+91+Fitzroy+St+St+Kilda+VIC","website":"https://chroniclesbar.com.au","owners":"Loc Fortune & Justin Lustman","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2023,"description":"Since opening in November of 2020, the blonde-timbered Chronicles — named for a much loved, local independent bookstore that occupied the site before closing in 2009 — has been watering the locals with its mix of good spirits and craft beer on tap.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/CHRONICLES.jpg"]},{"id":"rec6MaXLMjobCVGNh","rank":24,"name":"The Bon Vivant's Companion, Mornington Peninsula","suburb":"Mornington","city":"","address":"150 Main St, Mornington VIC 3931","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@bon_vivant_bar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bon+Vivants+Companion+150+Main+St+Mornington+VIC","website":"https://bonvivantbar.com.au","owners":"Tom Wicks","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"Named for the famous Jerry Thomas bartending tome, you’ll find The Bon Vivant’s Companion on Main St in Mornington. Within, there’s all the whisky you could want, whether it’s Australian or from overseas; there’s also a huge selection of Australian gin. Cocktails here feature a good whack of technique and change seasonally, and the room has a smattering of dark greens and marble and a moody, art deco vibe that will have you feeling you are someplace far away from the Peninsula. \n","awards":"The Best Bar on the Mornington Peninsula","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/BON-VIVANT.jpg"]},{"id":"rec728HXw8IUQJPhC","rank":25,"name":"Cordelia, Carlton","suburb":"Carlton","city":"","address":"180 Rathdowne St, Carlton VIC 3053","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@cordelia.carlton","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Cordelia+180+Rathdowne+St+Carlton+VIC","website":"https://cordelia.place","owners":"","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"This restaurant and wine bar on Rathdowne Street in Carlton has a focus on seafood, with wines local and international wines to suit; on the cocktail front, they lean classic, with an emphasis on the Martini, Negroni, and Manhattan, and riffs thereof.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/Cordelia.jpg"]},{"id":"recEIBjOImSCrEarY","rank":26,"name":"Flaggerdoot, Mornington Peninsula","suburb":"Merricks North","city":"","address":"Jackalope Hotel, 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North VIC 3926","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@jackalopehotels","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Flaggerdoot+Jackalope+166+Balnarring+Rd+Merricks+North+VIC","website":"https://jackalopehotels.com","owners":"Louis Li (Jackalope Hotels)","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2017,"description":"Step into Flaggerdoot, the cocktail bar at Mornington Peninsula hotel, Jackalope, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a gallery — albeit one where the most prized works of art come in liquid form. There’s an experimental approach to the drinks here — the jasmine-infused and clarified Gimlet, we’re told, is a crowd-pleaser","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Flaggerdoot.jpg"]},{"id":"recRxoLpNryuMyX21","rank":27,"name":"Bar Spontana, Brunswick","suburb":"Brunswick","city":"","address":"4 Saxon St, Brunswick VIC 3056","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@barspontana","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Spontana+4+Saxon+St+Brunswick+VIC","website":"https://barspontana.com","owners":"Josh Hodges, Dimitra Sarakinis, Jack Roebuck","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"From the team that brought you beloved Footscray institution Mr West, Bar Spontana celebrates all things naturally — spontaneously — fermented, whether that’s in beer and cider form, sakes, or through the cocktails themselves and in house ferments.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w2400/2026/08/Bar-Spontana_1.jpg"]},{"id":"recva8vpKJEDstYdi","rank":28,"name":"Lui Bar, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"Level 55, Rialto Towers, 525 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@theluibar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Lui+Bar+525+Collins+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://luibar.com","owners":"","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2011,"description":"Nestled 55 stories closer to the stars, Lui Bar has been serving the Melbourne community and all comers since 2011. The closed briefly for a renovation in 2024, but the bar is back open and serving up inventive and flavour-forward cocktails under the stewardship of manager Elisabetta Luppi.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Lui-Bar--2-.jpeg"]},{"id":"recky52VYNCuj8kqb","rank":29,"name":"Gimlet at Cavendish House, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"33 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@gimlet.melbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Gimlet+33+Russell+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://gimlet.melbourne","owners":"Trader House","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2020,"description":"To sit at the bar at Gimlet, the restaurant and bar inside Cavendish House, is to get swept up in the bustle and brass of a grand bistro; the patrons are well-heeled, the bartenders swift and sure of movement, the cocktails taken in swift succession. Make sure to order their House Martini, with its trio of olives; it’s also one of the country’s finest arguments for eating at the bar.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Gimlet-Parker-Blain4.jpg"]},{"id":"recrM8cV491ps1o1o","rank":30,"name":"The Lincoln, Carlton","suburb":"Carlton","city":"","address":"91 Cardigan St, Carlton VIC 3053","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@thelincolncarlton","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Lincoln+91+Cardigan+St+Carlton+VIC","website":"https://hotellincoln.com.au","owners":"Iain Ling","keyPeople":"","openingYear":1854,"description":"The Lincoln draws in all-comers, with a healthy selection of delicious and interesting things to drink (wine! great beer on tap!) and some of the finest food you’ll find in a boozer, anywhere.\n","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2023/09/HOTEL-LINCOLN-2019-8238.jpg"]},{"id":"recOomei6etEzwHQ0","rank":31,"name":"Heartbreaker, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"234A Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@heartbreakerbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Heartbreaker+234A+Russell+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://heartbreakerbar.com.au","owners":"Michael & Zara Madrusan","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2015,"description":"Inspired by the faded glamour of LA rock and roll rooms, Heartbreaker turns the noise and red neons up to 11, whether you’re a late night pool shark or a vagabond at the bar knocking back cocktails from The Everleigh Bottled Cocktail Co.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/HEARTBREAKER-GBW19-1434--3-.jpg"]},{"id":"reco5mapuQ5jhdHol","rank":32,"name":"Bar Carnation, Carlton North","suburb":"Carlton North","city":"","address":"386 Rathdowne St, Carlton North VIC 3054","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@barcarnation","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Carnation+386+Rathdowne+St+Carlton+North+VIC","website":"https://barcarnation.com","owners":"Audrey Shaw","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2026,"description":"Bar Carnation has set up in the former Gerald’s Bar space on Rathdowne Street in Carlton North, with a focus on smart wines and good food; inside, it’s white tablecloth kind of joint, with bartenders and waitstaff alike dressed in white, and a bustling, European style of service — along with a rather fine example of a freezer Martini.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/IMG_0516_Bar_Carnation.jpg"]},{"id":"recKhHJ6qTi0x5vcB","rank":33,"name":"The 18th Amendment Bar, Geelong","suburb":"Geelong","city":"","address":"Level 1, 82a Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@the_18th_amendment_bar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=18th+Amendment+Bar+82+Little+Malop+St+Geelong+VIC","website":"https://the18thamendmentbar.com.au","owners":"George Camorra","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2017,"description":"Since opening in 2017, The 18th Amendment Bar has flown the flag for choice cocktails and good times in Geelong — their efforts have seen them become a regular fixture of award ceremonies and ‘best of’ lists around the country.\n","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2023/09/bb909c65aaf5-IMG_2593.jpeg"]},{"id":"recQZQ83DsuJ2425m","rank":34,"name":"Manhattan Bar, Geelong","suburb":"Geelong","city":"","address":"9 James St, Geelong VIC 3220","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@manhattan_bar_geelong","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Manhattan+Bar+9+James+St+Geelong+VIC","website":"https://nondisclosurebar.com.au/manhattan-bar ⚠️","owners":"George Camorra","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2021,"description":"At Manhattan Bar, the clue is in the name. The bar comes from the team behind the award-winning Geelong cocktail joint, The 18th Amendment Bar, and is less classic cocktail den than it is blue neon-hued, 90s Lower East Side dive. Cocktails are batched and on tap, but yeah, should you wish, you can get yourself a jelly shot administered with a plastic syringe (we’d rather knock back a Pornstar Martini or two.) 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Inspired by Ferdinand von Mueller, a German-Australian scientist who was appointed as Victoria’s first official government botanist, the cocktail list is divided into eight ‘gardens’ each representing a different area of the Botanical Gardens, and each with a distinct style.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/04/BAR_FERDINAND_2026040148826_CREDIT_KRISTOFFER_PAULSEN.jpg"]},{"id":"recqQBvRzOCEkKkzW","rank":36,"name":"The Florence, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"Upstairs, 133 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@florencewinebar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Florence+133+Flinders+Lane+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://theflorence.com.au","owners":"Valarc Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"If it’s smart wines in a sensuously lit CBD space you’re looking for, then the room at The Florence is what you’ll need. Take the stairs up from Flinders Lane and you’ll find a bar inspired by 1970s Italy, with dark reds, marble, and plenty of booth seating to while away the late night hours.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/The-Florence-Bergman-Co-Jessie-Prince-004-1.jpeg"]},{"id":"recvEnHEmL4D0TeDm","rank":37,"name":"Bar Ampere, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"16 Russell Place, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@barampere","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Ampere+16+Russell+Place+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://barampere.com.au","owners":"Vespertine Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2013,"description":"From the folks behind Gin Palace next door, Bar Ampere feels a little industrial, with a faded modernism about it; perhaps that’s because Bar Ampere is open until three in the morning. It’s not unlikely that there will be some off-shift hospitality types hanging out here outdoors after the rest of Melbourne’s punters have bailed home; the menu runs French-ish, and there’s plenty of aperitif-style drinking to be had.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Bar-Ampere-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"recGcvylEYHnOpSN3","rank":38,"name":"Bahama Gold, Brunswick East","suburb":"Brunswick East","city":"","address":"135 Lygon St, Brunswick East VIC 3057","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@bahama.gold","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bahama+Gold+135+Lygon+St+Brunswick+East+VIC","website":"https://bahama.gold","owners":"Almay Jordaan & Simon Denman","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2020,"description":"From the folks behind Old Palm Liquor, this Brunswick East bar offers a little of everything for young and old; a great sound system is in place, some smart wines listed and a short cocktail offering to keep you sat around the bar; you can also pick up wines to takeaway.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/IMG_0494_Bahama_Gold_LR.jpg"]},{"id":"recXApUg6twUTgASa","rank":39,"name":"Bar Liberty, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"234 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@bar.liberty","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Liberty+234+Johnston+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://barliberty.com","owners":"Manu Potoi","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2016,"description":"When Bar Liberty opened on Johnson St Fitzroy in 2016, it was riding a wave of interest in unstuffying wine — laidback service, interesting drops from smaller producers and minimal interventionists, and delicious food. The cocktail list, too, has always offered interesting things to drink, giving you all the reasons you could need to drop in.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/BAR-LIBERTY.jpg"]},{"id":"recgOHA7Isfy3SwPO","rank":40,"name":"Moondrop Bar, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"Level 1, 150–156 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@moondropbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Moondrop+150+Gertrude+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://moondrop.bar","owners":"Steve Chan, Jacob Muoio & Jesse Kourmouzis","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2025,"description":"Drawing inspiration from 1920s Shanghai, Moondrop — from the team behind Sleepy’s Cafe & Wine in Carlton North — has taken over The Everleigh’s site on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy. What you’ll find inside drinks like the Ms Gibson, which collides a classic gin Martini with baijiu and MSG brine, and the occasional mahjong party in their back room.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/MOONDROP_IMAGE-161_CREDIT-MIKE-LAM.jpg"]},{"id":"recf1sPjvLj5VNxoA","rank":41,"name":"Deadwood, Dromana","suburb":"Dromana","city":"","address":"355 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana VIC 3936","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@deadwood.dromana","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Deadwood+355+Point+Nepean+Rd+Dromana+VIC","website":"https://deadwooddromana.com.au","owners":"Dan Green, Liam Watt & Lino Scidone","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2023,"description":"On the Mornington Peninsula in Dromana, you’ll find Deadwood — a beachside bar named for the Gold Rush era town in the USA. And what does every beachside suburb need? A bar like Deadwood, drawing upon Americana serving bourbon and rye, with a jukebox that gets a good workout.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Deadwood.jpg"]},{"id":"recSe5WTmQByYy2zZ","rank":42,"name":"Bijou, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"194 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@bijou_bottle_store","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bijou+Bottle+Store+194+Little+Collins+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://bijoubottlestore.com","owners":"Vespertine Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"Out of the depths of the pandemic emerged this little gem of a wine shop; at the top of Russell Place on the corner of Little Collins, Bijou is a beautiful hole in the wall wine store and bar from the folks behind Gin Palace and Black Kite Commune.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/bijou-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"recK4BKjm9z0CJun0","rank":43,"name":"Gin Palace, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"10 Russell Place, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@ginpalacemelb","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Gin+Palace+10+Russell+Place+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://ginpalace.com.au","owners":"Vespertine Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":1997,"description":"The accolade of ‘institution’ gets thrown around a bit these days; it gets lobbed at bars that have been open a mere five or seven years. Well, Gin Palace has seen those pretenders come and go. Opened in 1997 and championing gin well before the spirit’s current boom in popularity, Gin Palace was the creation of the late Vernon Chalker, one of the great Australian bar luminaries. Gin Palace continues on today,  with longtime bartender and manager and now owner Ben Luzz ensuring the old dame remains as vital as ever.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Gin-Palace.jpg"]},{"id":"recsC4wJefl8Ro2Fd","rank":44,"name":"Privé, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"90 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@prive.melbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bar+Prive+90+Queen+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://prive.melbourne","owners":"Edition Hospitality","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2026,"description":"The bar at Privé is cosy, tucked into a side room off the main hallway of the ornate, gothic revival style Melbourne Safe Deposit Building; it’s warmly lit, with high ceilings, muted pink marble and dark wood paneling. The blue-jacketed staff are attentive and professional, the drinks lean classic with a focus on Martinis and aperitif like serves, to aide in preparing diners for sister venue next door, Reine & La Rue.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Bar-PRIVE.jpg"]},{"id":"reclku7FSS86Kn425","rank":45,"name":"Nick & Nora's Melbourne, Melbourne","suburb":"Melbourne CBD","city":"","address":"80 Collins St (entry 11 Benson Walk), Melbourne VIC 3000","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@nickandnorasmelbourne","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Nick+and+Noras+80+Collins+St+Melbourne+VIC","website":"https://nickandnoras.com.au","owners":"Speakeasy Group","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2022,"description":"Nick & Nora’s might be Melbourne’s busiest cocktail bar. The bar comes from the Speakeasy Group, and you can expect their signature style — theatrical serves, a preference for the finer things, and a buzzy, upbeat atmosphere — to be on full display here. Cocktails and champagne are the order of the day — you might even see the odd bottle of champagne being sabred, or better yet, a champagne tower being built.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Nick---Nora_s-Bar.jpg"]},{"id":"recqbLiSGCQnz8eVO","rank":46,"name":"Leonard's House Of Love, South Yarra","suburb":"South Yarra","city":"","address":"3 Wilson St, South Yarra VIC 3141","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@leonardshouseoflove","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Leonards+House+of+Love+3+Wilson+St+South+Yarra+VIC","website":"https://leonardshouseoflove.com.au","owners":"","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2015,"description":"What happens when you take a South Yarra house and turn it into a space reminiscent of a Canadian log cabin? At Leonard’s, the result is a neighbourhood bar with burgers, wings, and a lot of whiskey — like an FM radio station playing the hits of the 70s, there’s a lot of comfort to be found here.\n","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/LEONARDS-HOUSE-OF-LOVE-1-.jpg"]},{"id":"rechHUTgZSowIs0Hr","rank":47,"name":"Renard, Ballarat","suburb":"Ballarat","city":"","address":"209–211 Mair St, Ballarat Central VIC 3350","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@renardballarat","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Renard+209+Mair+St+Ballarat+VIC","website":"https://renardballarat.com.au","owners":"Teddy Powlett & Louis Powlett","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2022,"description":"Owners Teddy and Louis Powlett have imbued Renard with a very simple mission: to provide good times to the people. And their chosen delivery vehicle for such good times? Cocktails and wine, my friends. Native ingredients and Australian flavours figure on the cocktail list alongside more Continental pleasures; there’s a healthy canned beer list, and a mix of Australian and European drops on the wine list.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/2026/08/image-4286697c-eab6-4e3e-893e-e7aff9b539df.jpg"]},{"id":"recHTaIafKZRMuOVt","rank":48,"name":"Tamura Sake Bar, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"1/43 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@tamurasakebar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Tamura+Sake+Bar+43+Gertrude+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://tamurasakebar.com","owners":"Fumi & Takako Tamura","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2019,"description":"Guests sit shoulder to shoulder around a wooden bar in a traditional izakaya set up, while the staff spin records and sling yuzu cocktails and ‘third wave’ sake — minimal intervention drops from a new generation of producers which cover the whole flavour spectrum. The menu is Japanese tapas, so you can pop by for a snack of yakitori and sashimi, or settle in for a hearty bowl of ramen.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Tamura-Sake-Bar.jpg"]},{"id":"rec26CfRWWj6ORScw","rank":49,"name":"Lola Belle, Fitzroy","suburb":"Fitzroy","city":"","address":"233 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@lolabellebar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Lola+Belle+233+Brunswick+St+Fitzroy+VIC","website":"https://lolabelle.com.au","owners":"Huw Griffiths","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2024,"description":"If you open a place that’s billed as a champagne and Daiquiri bar, you have our attention. Lola Belle is such a bar, and it comes from the folks behind Melbourne bar Union Electric; you’ll find three takes on the Daiquiri here, each of which has been tested and tweaked to deliver flavour, but there’s champagne too — and pots of XXXX Gold on tap if you should be so inclined (and we are).","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Lola-Belle.jpg"]},{"id":"recXAfNpRiKvyKl7S","rank":50,"name":"Mr West, Footscray","suburb":"Footscray","city":"","address":"106 Nicholson St, Footscray VIC 3011","type":"","types":[],"instagram":"@mrwestbar","googleLink":"https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mr+West+106+Nicholson+St+Footscray+VIC","website":"https://mrwest.com.au","owners":"Josh Hodges, Dimitra Sarakinis, Jack Roebuck","keyPeople":"","openingYear":2017,"description":"The award-winning Mr West opened in 2017 in Footscray with a healthy selection of craft beers on tap and funky ciders from across Australia and the globe, and the cocktails here are flavour-forward and fresh; an extensive range of spirits and minimal intervention wines complete the package. And if you’re not quite done when you’re done, you can pick up something from the bottleshop downstairs, too.","awards":"","images":["https://storage.ghost.io/c/16/ea/16ea42af-bd14-44b7-b952-dde2e51da580/content/images/size/w1600/2026/08/Mr-West-Footscray-2025-52.jpg"]}]}