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There’s something about a hidden door that pulls you in – at least, it has always been like that for me. Perhaps it’s the mystery, the promise of discovery, or both of them together. And Melbourne, with its many bars and clubs, is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
As a traveling reporter with an insatiable curiosity (and, let’s be honest, a love of a good drink), I couldn’t resist diving headfirst into Melbourne’s speakeasy scene.
So grab your sense of adventure because we’re going behind the scenes and through the hidden doors of the best-kept secrets.
Amazing Speakeasies I Found in Melbourne
- Eau De Vie: A hidden, 1920s-inspired speakeasy where cocktails are as theatrical as they are delicious
- Bar Margaux: Paris meets New York in this late-night, art deco haven
- Berlin Bar: A Tale of Two Berlins with Bold Drinks to match
- Jungle Boy: A playful tiki bar hidden behind a freezer door, serving tropical drinks worth the hunt
- Above Board: Minimalist cocktail bar offering world-class drinks in a sleek, 12-seat setting
- Beneath Driver Lane: Underground retreat with live blues music and soulful, creative cocktails
- Sweatshop: Industrial-inspired speakeasy with edgy decor
- The Attic at Black Pearl: Cozy upstairs bar specializing in unique whisky cocktails above a Melbourne icon
A Closer Look at Melbourne’s Hidden Gems
There’s a certain excitement in walking down an unfamiliar laneway, looking for hidden signs, and opening an unmarked door – but I didn’t feel any of that.
I did my homework well in advance, so I knew exactly what I was looking for with each stop.
But to the less-prepared, merely finding Melbourne’s speakeasies can be an adventure in its own right, with every step feeling like you’re solving a puzzle, only to be rewarded by a cozy cocktail crafted with care and creativity.
I didn’t come just to sip drinks in dimly lit corners. I wanted to really experience what made each bar unique – and the best way to do that was by trying their signature drink.
Whether it’s a smokey, theatrical showstopper or a deceptively simple take on a classic, each cocktail offers a story, a moment, and sometimes even a surprise.
Here’s what I found behind the hidden doors of Melbourne’s best speakeasies.
Eau De Vie
Design: A 1920s-inspired bar hidden behind a heavy, unmarked door, exuding Prohibition-era charm.
Signature Drink: Smoky Rob Roy
Eau De Vie immediately draws you in with its dim lighting, the soft hum of jazz, and an atmosphere that feels both refined and intimate, making it a standout spot for cocktail lovers.
Tucked down an unassuming side street behind a heavy door with no signs to speak of, it’s the kind of place that feels like it is daring you to discover it. And trust me, the hunt is worth it.
The moment I entered, the dim glow of the overhead lights and the soft hum of music washed over me. Plush leather seats, dark wood paneling, and snappily suspendered bartenders completed the look – a speakeasy dream come true!
If I didn’t know better, I would have thought I’d walked onto the set of The Great Gatsby.
The atmosphere may have a Prohibition-era charm, but the cocktails are far from old-fashioned. I started with their signature Smoky Rob Roy, served under a glass dome filled with smoke. When the bartender lifted the dome, the smoky aroma added an extra layer to a drink that felt both classic and inventive.
The peaty scotch blended seamlessly with the vermouth and bitters, creating a drink that was rich and bold. While I don’t usually go for smoky flavors, this one was exceptional. And that’s just one option from their thoughtfully curated menu.
Organized by styles, it features bold, spirit-forward drinks like the Amber Glow, with apricot and nori-infused Glenfiddich, or the La Nonna, a complex mix of spiced Maker’s Mark, chinato, sherry, coffee agave, and house-blend bitters.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Smoky Rob Roy, but Eau De Vie left me excited to come back and try more of their expertly crafted cocktails on my next visit to Melbourne.
Bar Margaux
Design: An underground bar with a stylish mix of Parisian charm and New York-inspired art deco design.
Signature Drink: Brandy Alexander
Descending the stairs into Bar Margaux felt like finding a slice of Paris tucked beneath Melbourne’s streets. The gleaming tiles, low lighting, and vintage art deco touches immediately transported me to a world where time slowed and indulgence reigned.
While the dimmed lights speakeasies are known for can sometimes lend an air of dinginess, everything from the polished tile walls to the bartenders’ crisp white shirts felt pristine, clean, and sophisticated.
Much like the Brandy Alexander – a creamy mix of cognac, dark creme de cacao, and nutmeg. This signature beverage (one of many amazing options) was like dessert in a glass, walking a delicate tightrope between rich and refined. As a sucker for sweeter cocktails, this one had a depth that left me in mourning once it was finished.
Bar Margaux isn’t just about the drinks, either. Their late-night French-inspired menu is filled with delicacies like escargot and steak frites – all of which smelled amazing as they were delivered to neighboring tables.
Luxurious cocktails paired with indulgent fare make this the perfect escape – whether you’re winding down or stretching the night a little longer. For a touch of Parisian romance and a dash of Manhattan cool, Bar Margaux delivers in spades.
Berlin Bar
Design: A bar embodying the divided city of Berlin, with distinct West and East Berlin-themed sections.
Signature Drink: The Laika
The Berlin Bar is a study in contrasts — and that is exactly the point.
Hidden up a nondescript staircase, this unique speakeasy is inspired by the divided city of Berlin, with two distinct sections: West Berlin, with its plush seating and opulent decor, and East Berlin, stark and utilitarian, complete with Cyrillic-covered walls and metal furnishings.
I settled into the West Berlin side – because, frankly, I can’t resist a little luxury—and ordered one of their signature cocktails: the Laika. Named after the first dog in space, this drink pays tribute to East Berlin’s Soviet-inspired ambiance.
Combining peppercorn-infused gin, vanilla, falernum, yuzu, and egg white, the Laika was one of the most adventurous cocktails I’ve tried. The sharp spice of the peppercorn gin balanced beautifully with the sweet citrus of the yuzu and the smooth creaminess of the egg white, creating a drink as bold as its namesake.
It also has amazing food! It easily compares with some of the leading restaurants in Australia that I have had the pleasure of visiting.
Jungle Boy
Design: Accessed through a freezer door at Boston Sub, this hidden bar offers a tropical escape with tiki-themed cocktails.
Signature Drink: Mai Tai
This is easily one of the most cleverly hidden speakeasies yet. Walking through a sandwich shop, opening a freezer door, and stepping into a tropical hideaway felt almost illicit – but in the best way possible.
The tiki theme is in full swing here – think bamboo accents, dim lighting, and a laid-back island vibe that is both unexpected and irresistible. I’d heard Jungle Boy’s Mai Tai was the best around – and after one sip, I was inclined to agree.
Jungle Boy’s Mai Tai is a cocktail so perfectly balanced that I might not be able to order one from anywhere else. The tangy lime, nutty orgeat, and punchy rum all blend seamlessly, delivering a drink that is dangerously refreshing and delightfully complex.
While Jungle Boy’s drinks are phenomenal, it’s the ambiance that sells it. With cozy corners perfect for getting lost in conversation while sipping something fruity and bold, it’s the kind of place that makes you forget what time it is.
And frankly, that’s half the fun.
While the playful vibe and drinks are excellent, Jungle Boy can get quite crowded, making it harder to fully enjoy the atmosphere. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, this might not be your spot.
Above Board
Design: An intimate cocktail bar with a minimalist design, focusing on expertly crafted drinks.
Signature Drink: H.S.L. Special
Walking into Above Board feels less like entering a bar and more like stepping into a masterclass. With just 12 seats and absolutely no standing room, it’s a space where every detail – from the minimalist decor to the perfectly chilled glassware – is designed to showcase one thing: the art of the cocktail.
It’s no wonder Above Board ranks among the world’s top 100 bars – the kind of place where even ordering a drink feels like a special occasion.
I opted for the H.S.L. Special, a cocktail named for the head bartender Hayden Scott Lambert himself. Watching it come together was half the magic: cracked ice tumbling into an icy highball, garnished with powdered sugar and a single blackberry perched like a jewel.
The first sip was nothing short of a revelation. The bittersweet warmth of Amaro Montenegro met the lush, fruity notes of crème de mûre, brightened by lime juice and balanced out with a whisper of absinthe. It was crisp yet complex, with layers of flavor that kept surprising me even as the glass emptied.
While the cocktails are fantastic, the ultra-minimalist space and strict seating policy might feel a bit limiting if you’re in the mood for a livelier setting.
Beneath Driver Lane
Design: An underground speakeasy-style bar with a dark, candle-lit vibe reminiscent of rugged stone walls.
Signature Drink: Cosmic Girl
Hidden down a laneway and tucked well below street level, Beneath Driver Lane exudes mystery and charm from the moment you step inside. The dim glow of candles, rugged stone walls, and bluesy soundtrack create an atmosphere tailor-made for unwinding – or disappearing into the night.
By the time I arrived, I was ready for something lighter after a string of bold, booze-forward cocktails. Enter the Cosmic Girl: a playful twist on the cosmopolitan, crafted with Bombay Sapphire, spiced pomegranate syrup, lemon, cranberry bitters, and a splash of prosecco.
It was bright and effervescent, the perfect palate refresher. The subtle spice from the syrup brought a surprising warmth that complemented the tart, fruity notes without overpowering them.
As I sipped my drink, the lights dimmed even further and a live local blues band began to play. The music swirled through the bar, mingling with the low hum of conversation and clink of glasses.
While the cocktails are fantastic, the ultra-minimalist space and strict seating policy might feel a bit limiting if you’re in the mood for a livelier setting.
Sweatshop
Design: A hidden basement bar with an underground speakeasy vibe, offering a unique and unusual experience.
Signature Drink: Sweatshop Sour
Sweatshop may sound like a grim name for a bar, but it’s all tongue-in-cheek — a playful nod to the Seamstress restaurant upstairs. Tucked into a basement beneath the bustling streets, this industrial-style cocktail bar leans into its name, which features factory-inspired decor, exposed pipes, and dim, moody lighting.
I arrived with a healthy dose of skepticism — not about the bar, but about the drink. Sours and I have never quite clicked. I find them fine, if a bit underwhelming, and rarely choose them when exploring a new menu. But I’d heard the Sweatshop Sour was the cocktail to try here, so I decided to give it a shot.
I’m glad I did. The sour didn’t just tick the usual boxes of tartness and frothy egg whites; it elevated them. Balanced perfectly with a hint of sweetness and a husky depth of flavor, it delivered a level of complexity that kept me coming back for sip after sip. It wasn’t just a good sour; it was genuinely impressive.
The Attic at Black Pearl
Design: A Southern-inspired speakeasy located above the Black Pearl, focusing on whisky tastings and creative cocktails.
Signature Drink: The Death Flip
While The Attic offers a cozy, intimate setting, I found the overall experience a bit underwhelming compared to the buzz surrounding its reputation.
The Southern speakeasy theme is subtle to the point of feeling nondescript, and while the space is undeniably intimate, it can border on cramped when busy.
The Death Flip, their signature drink, sounded exciting but didn’t quite hit the mark for me. The fernet’s bold, herbal flavor dominated the creamy texture, and while some might find it intriguing, I found it slightly overwhelming. It’s clear the menu is crafted with care, but the heavy focus on whisky-forward cocktails might not appeal to those seeking variety.
The Attic has its charm, especially for those who like whisky, but for me, the combination of limited space and niche menu made it feel a bit too restrictive for a fully enjoyable evening.
What I’ve Learned About Melbourne’s Speakeasies
Melbourne’s speakeasy scene offers a perfect mix of mystery and adventure. Each bar has its own charm, but there are a few things you should know before you start exploring.
How to Find Them
The best speakeasies in Melbourne aren’t ones you just stumble upon – they’re ones you seek out. From unmarked doors to entryways disguised as freezer doors, each spot feels like a small, fun puzzle with a cocktail waiting at the end.
My advice? Do your homework before heading out. Most don’t require secret passwords, but knowing the address (and sometimes a specific landmark) will save you time wandering the laneways.
What to Wear
Melbourne is effortlessly stylish, and its speakeasies reflect that vibe.
While you won’t need formal attire, most places lean toward smart casual – think chic but comfortable. A place like Eau De Vie has a slightly dressier ambiance, while Jungle Boy’s laid-back tropical theme is perfect for something a little more relaxed.
What to Expect
Step inside, and you’ll usually find dim lighting, intimate seating, and a soundtrack of jazz, blues, or something a little more modern but equally moody.
Service tends to be top-notch, with bartenders who are as creative as they are approachable. Some bars, like The Attic, offer table service for a more curated experience, while others encourage you to belly up to the bar and chat with the mixologists.
Cash or Card?
Good news – most Melbourne speakeasies are card-friendly, and many take reservations. That said, a few spots (like Beneath Driver Lane) are worth popping into spontaneously, especially during live performances.
The Jersey Gypsy’s Favorites
After exploring Melbourne’s hidden gems, a few bars stood out as must-visits:
- Eau De Vie: The ultimate speakeasy experience with theatrical cocktails and a timeless ambiance.
- Beneath Driver Lane: Perfect for live music lovers and those who crave a sultry, bluesy atmosphere.
- The Attic at Black Pearl: An intimate, whisky-forward retreat above one of Melbourne’s most iconic bars.
Bars like Jungle Boy and Sweatshop bring playful themes and creative drinks to the table, making them worth a visit if their style speaks to you.
I Will Definitely be Visiting Again Given the Chance!
Melbourne’s speakeasies aren’t just about the cocktails (though they are incredible); they’re about the journey – finding hidden doors, soaking in the atmosphere, and sipping on drinks that double as works of art.
Whether you’re an experienced bar-hopper or new to the speakeasy scene, Melbourne’s bars have a way of making every night feel like an adventure.
FAQs About Melbourne Speakeasy Bars
Why is it called a speakeasy?
The term “Speakeasy” hails from the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), when the sale of alcohol was illegal.
Underground bars flourished during this time, often hidden behind unmarked doors or in basements where patrons had to “speak easy” to avoid drawing attention. While Melbourne’s speakeasies aren’t dodging the law, they have embraced the mystery and charm of these hidden historical drinking spots.
How do people find out about speakeasies?
Finding a speakeasy is half the fun! Word-of-mouth and social media are great ways to discover them, but it’s always worth reading up on regional guides (like this one!).
Many bars maintain their mystique by keeping signage subtle, so knowing the address – or even what door to look for – can save you some aimless wandering.
Are speakeasies in Melbourne expensive?
Melbourne speakeasies lean toward the higher end of the pricing spectrum, with cocktails often ranging from $18 to $25 AUD.
But you’re paying for more than just a drink – you’re getting expertly crafted cocktails, impeccable ambiance, and a truly unique experience.
Do Melbourne Speakeasies take reservations?
It depends on the bar. Spots like The Attic at Black Pearl and Above Board accept reservations, which can be helpful for their limited seating.
Others, like Driver Lane, are great for walk-ins, though arriving early ensures you can get a seat.
Do I need a password to get in?
Not in Melbourne – most speakeasies here rely on hidden entrances and unmarked doors for intrigue, rather than secret passwords.
Can I bring a group to a speakeasy?
Yes, but smaller venues like Above Board might not be ideal for groups, given their intimate layouts.
Larger groups might feel more at home at places like Beneath Driver Lane or Bar Margaux, which can accommodate more patrons.
Do speakeasies serve food?
Some do! Bar Margaux offers an incredible late-night French-inspired menu, while Eau De Vie serves charcuterie boards that pair perfectly with their cocktails.
