The Lygon Street bar scene offers a vibrant mix of pubs, clubs and bars, guaranteeing a flavour to suit all tastes. From institutions responsible for creating this enigmatic precinct to zeitgeist venues that cater to an eclectic vibe, Lygon St is still the place to meet, greet, eat, drink, dance, dine and solve the problems of the world.
So, what takes your fancy?
Just across the road from the Trades Hall and named after the 14th Prime Minister of Australia, John Curtin, this legendary watering hole is still home to lively debates from politicians, unionists and students alike. Theory, prophecy and hyperbole are still heard over a selection of craft beers or a feed from Sonny’s succulent fried chicken. Catch the infectious live music lineup including bands, solo artists or DJs ruling the dance floor. And if you just want to breathe in the hustle and bustle of life, the Earl Street beer garden is the perfect patch. Rock ‘n’ Roll!
This relaxed rooftop bar above King & Godfree boasts a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Carlton, complimented by Euro-centric cocktails such as tangy blood orange sours, the bittersweet negroni or a festive aperol spritz. Evolving from its underbelly origins of late night neon and the hustle of a smokey pool hall dive, Johnny’s Green Room now evokes Roman rooftop reverie, serving local and imported beers, plus delicious wines to pair with tempting bar food. Eventful and inventive, this is a great break from the everyday.
If your palate is longing for an extensive selection of local and imported grapes, then get your laughing gear around Lord Lygon. Zero guesses for how this colourful character is connected to Lygon Street. With a capacity for 50 people, Lord Lygon offers a perfect pairing of your wine selection with sumptuous bites size morsels of local produce. An ideal hotspot to taste the best Victoria has to offer.
Time Out Melbourne described Milk the Cow as, “A licenced fromagerie. It’s the adult equivalent of a ‘fireworks, puppy dogs and candy!’ store and it really exists.” Race you!
Clearly transcending the humble cheese platter, this deli has expanded way beyond a display case of 150+ varieties, to enhance the classic pairing of wine and cheese. Upstairs seats 40 people, and if the main bar downstairs gets too enthusiastic there’s room for the overflow on the street outside. Classic Lygon Street al fresco action! Milk the Cow has mastered the aging process for both dairy and grape so their timing tastes sublime.
This hip Lygon Street venue has taken the Italian tradition of cicchetti (mouth-watering bites of food served on a wooden board) and run with it… heart attack be damned! Modelled after Medittranean bars that beat the sun up and close long after it sets – quality, authenticity and hospitality are as much menu staples as the coffee, vino and chicchetti. The decor has a charming retro vibe which enhances the old-world whimsey. Take a board walk.
Located in the heart of Little Italy, the Carlton Yacht Club acknowledge they don’t speak Italian but they speak damn good martini and that’s awesome sauce in any language! Catering to a diverse crowd with a warm and welcoming atmosphere this is a fun, friendly refuge established almost 20 years ago. Their logo proudly boasts: “Building and destroying reputations since 2002.” As a specialist cocktail bar they have an epic selection of beers, wines and cocktails which they feature on various theme nights. Check out Martini Monday, Cocktail Tuesday, Wednesday Winesday and Whisky Thursday where the directive is “Top shelf, bottom dollar.” Embark on a fantastic voyage.
If you are looking for an East Brunswick lounge vibe, surrounded by all your favourite people, to simply chill the night away, Eydies offers you that cosy, relaxed, familiar vibe. Accompanied by the unmistakable crackle of LPs on the record player and the charm of friendly staff, this is the home-away-from-home feel you’re always looking for and have now found.
Envelope yourself in the enchanting and elegant ambiance of Melbourne’s premier Piano Bar, Vodka Temple. Boasting world class performers, you’ll experience intoxicating live artists in a truly original atmosphere, while imbibing Carlton’s most extensive range of vodkas. Partake in the tempting tapas selection along with a dirty martini, a Moscow mule or a salty dog. It’s time to worship at the Vodka Temple.
Bar Romantica pays homage to its ancestor Cafe Romantica, a legendary establishment from the East Brunswick end of Lygon Street. The new custom design features a warm classic style that beautifully repurposes original features and enhances the romanticism of the space. What was once a beloved dive is now a romantic drinking and dining experience that prides itself on a breath-taking drinks menu that you’ll fall in love with.
Lygon Street is the perfect place to connect, even if you don’t have a plan. Simply arriving provides you with a plethora of pubs, clubs, bars and dives, depending on your mood. There is enough atmosphere and energy to inspire a great evening and then you can get to the important stuff: life, love and laughter! Cin Cin.
