

Its name is derived from the year 1806, relevant to the bar scene as it was the year that the word “cocktail” first entered into the dictionary. Since then, it has cemented itself atop of the field of best cocktail bars in Melbourne. From its humble beginnings over a decade ago, 1806 has established itself on the international scene, winning the Worlds Best Cocktail Menu in 2008 – within a year of opening. Located on Exhibition Street in the Melbourne CBD, the hidden bar named 1806 is a devilishly handsome little drinking spot. Certainly unique, and in regards to hidden bars Melbourne can boast no better.Īddress: 96 Chapel Street, Windsor VIC 3181 In an instant, walking through the refrigerator door, patrons are transported from bustling Windsor to a tropical oasis. The aforementioned tiki theme is accompanied by some intriguing and rather striking taxidermized creatures displayed on the walls of the hidden bar all of which are secretly housed behind a cold room door. It is a place where lovers of the tropics and fruity rum flavoured drinks should go. Confused? Ok fair enough, Jungle Boy, arguably the most secret of bars in Melbourne, is found behind Boston Sub. This Melbourne Bar is one that has all the hallmarks of a tiki bar meets sandwich shop.

So, here it is, our list of best Hidden Bars in Melbourne, 20 to be exact.Ĥ9 Best Bars in Melbourne For a Good Night Out Our list is sure to help you find a spot you fancy. Focussing on exceptional cocktails with clever little names, superb staff, and décor that would make Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen weak at the knees. With many styled after the timelessly cool speakeasies of American prohibition, these bars show us just how good it can be to have fun while remaining hidden from the rest of the world. Melbourne’s infamous laneways and eclectic vibe provide the perfect setting for hidden drinking dens. The General Licence Class B was created, giving Crown permission and, it also opened to door to the small bar boom that is now synonymous with the city of Melbourne. In 1994, the Kennett government revisited the liquor laws, mainly due to the newly built Crown Casino who wanted to operate bars without serving food. This led to a particular style of building – generally a two-story construction – spreading across the city, with bars downstairs and accommodation above. You see, back in the day, Victoria’s liquor laws mandated that in order to sell alcohol, pubs also had to serve food and provide accommodation. The hidden bars in Melbourne are unparalleled, thanks to the Kennett government, perhaps. With a seemingly endless list of things to be proud of, Melbourne shows us once again why it is one of the most liveable cities in the world.
