Once you’ve perused every pub, it’s time to try the bars. Fitzroy is forever raising the bar (pun intended) when it comes to places to drink and boogie. An extra reason to go to bars in Fitzroy: you will rarely have to pay an entrance fee, unlike most bars/clubs in the city. Yay, more money in your pocket!
Here’s The Nunnery’s pick for the best bars in Fitzroy:
The Black Pearl
304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
The Black Pearl was named number 37 in a list of best bars – not in Melbourne, or Australia, or even the Southern Hemisphere – in the world! So you know it’s going to be good. The bartenders are super friendly and there’s a big range of delicious cocktails, as well as the usual favourites, beer, wine etc. Watch them make the cocktails in front of you, it’s an art form. Sadly, there’s not much of a dance floor scene here.
The Everleigh
150 Gertrude St, Fitzroy
The Everleigh took out number 30 in the world’s best bars list so you can be sure you’re going to enjoy it. Cocktails galore, wine, beer, it has the lot.
Rum Diary
334 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Obviously, Rum Diary has a lot of rum; over 200 varieties, including their own house brew made here in Fitzroy! They also do cocktails, beer and wine.
Naked for Satan
285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Put Naked for Satan on your ‘must do’ list. It has a rooftop bar, known as ‘Naked in the Sky’, which has the best views of the Melbourne skyline – perfect for an afternoon beer or a cocktail before a big night out. You can order tapas, good quality but sadly not for the thrifty backpacker who is trying to save money. Naked for Satan is also known for its infused vodkas, of which they have 22 varieties, including salted caramel, chilli, alpine chocolate, espresso, ginger; give them a go!
Polly
401 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Polly was one of the first cocktail bars in Fitzroy, and is still churning out excellent cocktails to the delight of locals and tourists alike. It’s not for the poor backpacker, but for those looking for a refined venue to sample some deliciously crafted cocktails, you’ll feel right at home.
Bimbos
376 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Bimbos is a really great bar for a number of reasons. Firstly, the DJ plays music from the cockpit of a small aeroplane inside the bar. If you’ve seen that before, I don’t believe you. Secondly, there’s a rooftop bar, which sadly doesn’t have any views of Melbourne but is still lovely during the summer. Thirdly, they serve delicious pizza for $4, so it’s the cheapest pizza you’ll find in Melbourne that is of decent quality. Fourthly, the whole place is decorated with creepy baby dolls. Check it out, or forever wish you had!
Forester’s Hall
64 Smith St, Collingwood
Craft beer enthusiasts, unite! Forester’s Hall has over 32 craft beers on tap – unparalleled in Fitzroy. The bar staff know their stuff, so go in and let them guide you towards your new favourite beer!
The Night Cat
141 Johnston St, Fitzroy
The Night Cat is a big bar with personality to match. There is a stage right in the middle of the bar where the bands play – Friday and Saturday night are very popular, with a live band playing funky reggae/soul music. They also run salsa classes on Sunday nights!
