Three bars to take your date:
1. Polly
Located at the far end of Brunswick Street, away from the city, this unassuming bar looks lost compared to the bevy of themed bars dotting the iconic street. However don’t be fooled, labelled as a cocktail bar and lounge, it is just that. Nothing more and nothing less. You and your date can recline in one of those incredibly comfy armchairs while listening to some anecdotal piece of alcohol history from its incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff.
Address: 401 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065
2. 1806
A premier cocktail bar, the bartenders of 1806 have won award after award to establish itself not only throughout Australia, but throughout the world. Gaining an international reputation through its faithful reincarnation of the elegant experience of cocktails, with memorabilia cluttering the walls, the menu a mini-companion itself taking you through the history of cocktails and plush armchairs on both floors to seal the atmosphere. However, much like its furniture, the atmosphere at 1806 has become a little worn and threadbare of late. The drinks are still top-notch and the bartenders knowledgeable, but perhaps the departure of the previous team have left the current roster relying on the menu rather than being the artisan mixologists they used to be. A great place to stop by and take in a drink, but not where you would go to have your mind blown.
Address: 169 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
3. Seamstress
Seamstress boasts an interesting piece of history, not only being a former factory of seamstresses plying their trade, hence the name, but also as a former house for ladies of the night, calling to customers on the street from the window up top.
And that’s exactly what you’ll feel like is calling you into this four-story cocktail bar and restaurant. Something seductive and alluring, daring you to step in and see for yourself what’s going on, like a sly high-fashioned courtesan beckoning you in with just the crook of her finger.
The atmosphere is elegant and tidy, however it is no longer the hidden bar it once was. So don’t be expecting a small respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Address: 113 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000