Melbourne is a city known for its vibrant nightlife, but beyond its well-trodden bars and pubs lies a treasure trove of hidden gems that only the most adventurous souls know about. The city’s burgeoning speakeasy scene pays homage to the Prohibition era, with a mix of mystery, exclusivity, and craft cocktails. If you’re looking to uncover some of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets, get ready for a journey into the world of hidden bars and speakeasies that will make you feel like you’re part of a secret society.

Here’s your ultimate guide to discovering Melbourne’s most elusive and exciting hidden bars and speakeasies.

1. The Everleigh – A True Tribute to Classic Cocktails

Location: 150-156 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy

Nestled on the iconic Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, The Everleigh is one of Melbourne’s most sophisticated hidden bars, offering a warm, vintage vibe reminiscent of 1920s New York. This elegant spot transports you back in time with its plush leather seats, soft lighting, and expertly crafted cocktails. Though it’s not secretive in the sense of being completely hidden, its discreet entrance and speakeasy ambiance make it feel like an insider’s bar.

What to Expect:

• Classic Cocktails: The menu is a carefully curated list of timeless cocktails, including Negronis, Old Fashioneds, and Manhattans, made with top-tier ingredients.
• No Signage: The bar’s understated exterior (no flashy signs or advertisements) lets you know that you’re about to enter an exclusive, hidden world.
• Old-School Charm: The dimly lit space, with its polished wood bar and vintage décor, exudes a sense of mystery and charm.

Best For: Lovers of classic cocktails and a refined, intimate atmosphere.

2. Eau De Vie – A Modern Speakeasy with a Twist

Location: 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne

Tucked down a laneway in Melbourne’s city center, Eau De Vie is a chic, sophisticated speakeasy that combines a bit of flair with a lot of character. Inspired by the golden age of cocktails, this bar is a modern take on the speakeasy concept, with a menu that reflects the creativity and artistry of the cocktail world.

What to Expect:

• Artistic Cocktails: Eau De Vie is known for its theatrical approach to mixology. Expect cocktails that arrive with flair – some are even presented with smoke or dramatic garnishes.
• Hidden Entrance: The entrance is discreet, located in an alleyway behind an unmarked door. It’s part of the charm – the thrill of discovering this hidden spot is an experience in itself.
• Exclusive Vibe: The bar is intimate, with an air of exclusivity, offering a luxurious setting for those looking to indulge in finely crafted drinks.

Best For: Those who enjoy creative, visually striking cocktails and a sophisticated, yet laid-back atmosphere.

3. The Croft Institute – A Hidden Bar with a Schoolyard Twist

Location: 21 Liverpool Street, Melbourne

If you’re looking for something a little quirky and offbeat, The Croft Institute is your go-to hidden bar. Located behind a non-descript door in the heart of the city, it’s a fun and playful homage to old-school science labs and classrooms. The atmosphere is a fusion of industrial décor with an unexpected schoolyard vibe.

What to Expect:

• Lab-Themed Cocktails: Cocktails are served in beakers, test tubes, and other lab-related glassware. The drink menu features a creative mix of cocktails with fun names like Chemical Reaction and Bunsen Burner.
• Hidden in Plain Sight: The entrance is tucked away on Liverpool Street, but once inside, the quirky décor will surprise you – there are even old-school desks and blackboards on display.
• Dance Floor: Upstairs, you’ll find a small dance floor with DJs spinning tunes, making it a great choice for a night of dancing after your drinks.

Best For: Those looking for a quirky, fun speakeasy vibe that’s off the beaten path.

4. Bar Americano – The Micro Bar with Big Personality

Location: 20 Presgrave Place, Melbourne

Bar Americano is a tiny, no-frills gem in the heart of Melbourne’s laneways. Its size and understated décor make it feel like a secret you’ve stumbled upon, but its reputation for crafting some of the best Italian-inspired cocktails is anything but secret. This pocket-sized speakeasy is a favorite among cocktail connoisseurs who value simplicity and quality over extravagance.

What to Expect:

• Small but Mighty: With only a handful of stools and a tiny bar space, Bar Americano is as intimate as it gets. The focus is entirely on the drinks – this is a place for serious cocktail lovers.
• Classic Italian Cocktails: Inspired by classic Italian cocktails, the menu features drinks like Negronis and Americano. The bartenders here are true experts, with a sharp focus on perfecting each drink.
• No Fuss, Just Great Drinks: There’s no extravagant décor here – just good drinks in a cozy space.

Best For: Cocktail enthusiasts who enjoy intimate settings with an emphasis on quality drinks.

5. The Black Pearl – A Fitzroy Institution

Location: 304 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

A Melbourne institution, The Black Pearl is a hidden gem that’s been serving up excellent cocktails for over a decade. It may not be a traditional speakeasy in the sense of being a hidden door or secret entrance, but its laid-back, intimate atmosphere and amazing cocktails certainly place it in the realm of the hidden gems in the city.

What to Expect:

• Cocktail Masters: Known for its extensive cocktail list, The Black Pearl’s expert bartenders can craft anything you desire, from classic concoctions to innovative new creations.
• Laid-Back Vibe: The space is unpretentious, with dark wooden floors, cozy lighting, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.
• Secret Bar Upstairs: If you’re looking for something more hidden, venture upstairs to find the bar’s “upstairs room,” which often has a more exclusive, hidden feel.

Best For: Those looking for a classic speakeasy vibe with an emphasis on expertly made cocktails and a relaxed environment.

6. Cherry Bar – The Rock ’n’ Roll Hideaway

Location: 68 Little Collins Street, Melbourne

While Cherry Bar isn’t quite a speakeasy in the traditional sense, it’s hidden in plain sight, tucked away in an alley behind a door that blends in with the rest of the laneway. This rock ’n’ roll-inspired bar has a gritty, underground feel, making it perfect for those who want to escape the typical cocktail lounges.

What to Expect:

• Rock ’n’ Roll Atmosphere: With its classic jukebox, leather booths, and posters of music legends adorning the walls, Cherry Bar has a rock and roll edge that feels like stepping into a secret club for music lovers.
• Live Music: The bar regularly hosts live bands, especially local rock and blues acts. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience Melbourne’s live music scene in an intimate setting.
• No-Frills Cocktails: While it’s not a place for intricate cocktails, Cherry Bar serves cold beers and basic spirits, making it perfect for a more relaxed, fun night out.

Best For: Rock music lovers and those looking for a low-key, yet still hidden, bar experience.

7. Society – A Luxury Speakeasy Experience

Location: 26 Russell Street, Melbourne

Society is a luxurious speakeasy that prides itself on offering an upscale, high-class experience. Hidden in plain sight behind an unassuming door in Melbourne’s city center, Society offers an atmosphere of opulence, with velvet sofas, gold accents, and a stunning bar area.

What to Expect:

• Luxury Ambience: With its polished interiors and dim lighting, Society is the epitome of sophistication. It’s perfect for a classy night out or a special occasion.
• Signature Cocktails: The cocktail menu at Society is extensive and features a selection of carefully curated drinks using premium ingredients.
• Discreet Entrance: Although it’s not a typical speakeasy in terms of being hard to find, the discreet, low-key entrance keeps the atmosphere mysterious and exclusive.

Best For: Those looking for a luxurious speakeasy experience with fine cocktails and a sophisticated setting.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s hidden bars and speakeasies offer much more than just a night out – they provide an experience that combines mystery, exclusivity, and top-notch cocktails. Whether you’re into classic cocktails, quirky speakeasy vibes, or luxurious settings, there’s something in Melbourne for every kind of bar enthusiast. So, next time you’re out exploring Melbourne’s laneways, keep your eyes peeled – the city’s best bars are often hidden in plain sight, just waiting for you to discover them.