5 amazing bars, 1 big night

By LISA LEONARD

Melbourne was recently crowned the most liveable city in the world for the sixth time in a row. With multicultural restaurants, amazing tourist sites, art works and some of the best bars you could hangout in, where could possibly be a better place than here?

With the ever-growing population in need for some stress relief from their day-to-day jobs, more and more unconventional bars are being opened to meet the demand.

Mojo Lifestyle did the impossible and insane task of bar-hopping around the Melbourne CBD to find five amazing bars. We look at each venue’s environment, food options and drinks.

Goldilocks Bar

Level 4, 264 Swanston St, Melbourne.Open 2pm-3am$$: At the pricey end

You can feel the retro mid-1980s theme as soon as you enter. The classical music and the sophisticated interior, along with some unique decoration around the bar, will definitely set the mood after a long stressful day. It is known for its discrete location inside the Melbourne CBD. The cocktail menu is a must-try during your visit. The venue has both an indoor and outdoor area for those who like to enjoy the scenery outside. They also serve up some vegetarian dishes for those who are interested.

Madame Brussels

Level 3, 59-63 Bourke St, MelbourneOpen 12 noon-1am$$: Average city bar prices

For those of you who still want to hang out in a similar fashion to Marie Antoinette, search no more. The area resembles a feminine French courtyard, although do not be fooled by the style. Their nightlife party and drinks are to die for. It has both outdoor and indoor areas and is famous for their rose, punch and champagne. It is a good bachelorette party destination with a rooftop garden wonderland setting to it.

Ferdydurke

Levels 1 and 2, 239 Lonsdale St, MelbourneOpen 4am-1am$$: Average city bar prices

Ferdydurke has great atmosphere, décor, friendly service, a good cocktail selection and a vegan menu for those who prefer it. Outdoor and indoor sittings are provided. It also has little balcony with the city view. Arrive early if you want to get a seat since it is usually packed around Friday and Saturday evenings. Food is also served here, although the standouts were their unique cocktails. The bar is known for their live music and their nibbles. 

Siglo

Level 2, 161 Spring St, MelbourneOpens from 5PM to 3AM$$: At the pricey end

This bar/restaurant will definitely make you feel like you’re in the middle of Venice, with a wine in your right hand and a tourist guidebook in the other. Situated in the middle of South Melbourne, Siglo features white table linens in an outdoor setting. Classical music will accompany you while you are busy catching up with your old mates. The bar is known for its European style drinks, and also serves some delectable European bar food. Vegetarian and gluten-free dishes are also offered. 

Rooftop Bar & Cinema

Level 6, Curtin House, 252 Swanston St, MelbourneOpen 11pm-1am$$: Good value

Once you get over the seemingly never ending stairs to the Rooftop Bar, you will see the 360-degree view of Melbourne city is worth the climb. Known for their over-the-top view and good vibes, you will need to come early to secure yourself a place due to its popularity and booking system. There is more to the Rooftop bar than just its drinks and nightlife. They also have a movie night showing new and old movies. The setting and overall environment is where the Rooftop Bar gets its favourable reputation. For those of you who are hungry, don’t worry, they provide a lot of different menu items from burgers to chips to fill you up.