Cosmopolitan Melbourne
As the leading events city in the country Melbourne offers vast diversity in its night life. Drinks of every style and flavor can be found in the many bars and clubs, from European beers to the latest cocktails and everything in between. This is Cosmopolitan Melbourne. Whether you choose to dance the night away to upbeat acid jazz, relax on an old couch in a retro kitsch lounge room, or just spin a yarn in a pub you will notice one thing, this city doesn’t stop! Imagine a boutique beer, a top shelf whisky, a Victorian wine or a Cosmopolitan as sharp as the crowd that surrounds you? This is exactly what Melbourne has to offer.
Let your imagination guide you, wander the city’s broad boulevards and narrow laneways and you’ll discover a wealth of places in which to drink, kick back and relax or dance until dawn. The best places are found in lane ways, refurbished once-forgotten warehouses and obscure old buildings, redesigned-cool caves for patrons’ drinking pleasure. Choose from cocktail lounges and vibrant pubs to underground dance dens and unsigned doors that conceal a warm welcome, or a roof top terrace bar or beer garden for a summer drink.
Cookie, nestled on the top end of Swanston Street is a great place to start, regardless of the time of day or the occasion. The Thai offered in the restaurant area is about as good as you will get anywhere in Melbourne and the range of beers to wash it down with is nothing short of outstanding. It offers over 350 wines to help you start the night or great coffee to sip on as you work away the day here, with a wireless hot spot provided for the internet. There is plenty of seating, but being ever popular, don't be surprised if you have to enjoy the experience standing. The crowd is often as diverse as the art on the walls, but all share the same taste for the upper echelon of Melbourne’s bar scene.
A little further west, on the water you stumble on to another hidden gem, Watermark Bar. This is one of the newest editions to Melbourne's Waterfront establishments, superbly located on Victoria's Harbor North facing Promenade. Only minutes walk from the CBD and major sporting venues, Watermark comes complete with warm inviting decor and design, state of the art visuals, 5 star dining, fantastic cocktails/bar and entertainment.
A little closer to the river, minutes away from the Crown Casino complex, one of Melbourne’s most alluring waterfront cocktail bars, Alumbra combines the mystic charms of Morocco with smooth New York style. Only a few minutes walk from the CBD, Alumbra offers a cosy and intimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Those looking to fully immerse themselves in Middle Eastern culture can try one of Alumbra’s traditional shisha pipes that come with a selection of scented tobacco. The music at Alumbra is diverse and takes its influences from around the world.
A little south/east of the city, St Kilda is a visitors delight. The well know Esplanade Hotel rests on the beach front, overlooking the beach. Still regarded as the best place to catch a band, and the sunset.
If you’re after a little something more European, head to Mink. Youth, fashion attitude is Mink. You may need to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
A short stroll away on Fitzroy Street, the Saint stands as the premier bar, cocktail and function venue. Downstairs there is a main bar and a fireplace surrounded with couches. If you fancy the out doors enjoy your drink in the courtyard, set amongst palm trees.
When you find your self in Melbourne, ask someone to guide you, Melbournians love a chat as much as they love a good bar. There is enough variety in this vibrant city to cater for all.
