Melbourne is the world's most cocktail-literate city — and the laneway speakeasy is its signature.
Part of our 20 Best Speakeasies in the World listThis article is one chapter in our larger global guide. See the full pillar with every featured city.
Read the world list
The 10 best speakeasies in Melbourne
01 · Melbourne
Fitzroy
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Iconic · World 50 Best Hall of Fame
World's 50 Best Bars Hall of Fame, dark Fitzroy room.
Order: Whatever's on the seasonal menu
02 · Melbourne
CBD
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Iconic · Tiny industry counter
Tiny CBD industry-favourite counter speakeasy.
Order: Bartender's choice
03 · Melbourne
Fitzroy
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Iconic · Pre-Prohibition
Pre-Prohibition specialist on Gertrude Street, World #21.
Order: A Manhattan, made the old way
04 · Melbourne
Malthouse Lane
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Iconic · Theatrical
Theatrical Malthouse Lane cocktail experience speakeasy.
Order: A theatrical signature with smoke
05 · Melbourne
Fitzroy
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Iconic · Hidden laneway
Hidden Fitzroy laneway speakeasy.
Order: Whatever fits the conversation
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06 · Melbourne
CBD
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Iconic · Plush French
Plush French-style CBD basement speakeasy.
Order: A glass of champagne
07 · Melbourne
Curtin House
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Iconic · Curtin House
Iconic Curtin House cocktail and music speakeasy.
Order: A whisky during the late set
08 · Melbourne
Fitzroy
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Iconic · Plush
Iconic plush Fitzroy speakeasy.
Order: A martini, made carefully
09 · Melbourne
Chinatown
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Iconic · Outdoor
Iconic Chinatown shipping-container speakeasy.
Order: A craft beer outside
10 · Melbourne
CBD
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Iconic · Japanese whisky
Iconic CBD Japanese whisky speakeasy.
Order: A pour of rare Hibiki
More Melbourne speakeasiesThe full Melbourne speakeasy index by neighbourhood.
See the full list
How to find a speakeasy in Melbourne
The 10 above are where Melbourne hides its best cocktails — behind phone booths, fridges, bookcases, and unmarked doors.
