The best late-night bars in Melbourne

From the crew that brought you the Everleigh, Heartbreaker is a dive bar fuelled by jukebox tunes, neon lighting, craft beers, and a rock ‘n’ roll attitude. You’ll fit right in by playing a game of pool or ordering a super-sized slice of Connie’s pizza straight to your seat.

If Black Pearl sounds familiar, we’re tipping it’s because this Fitzroy bar regularly tops international award lists (and not because you’re a Pirates of the Caribbean die-hard fan). The bartenders here are some of the country’s best, so leave it in their capable hands to craft the tipple your tastebuds are craving.

Open ’til 3am every morning, Bar Ampere is a late-night haunt you can rely on. The signature drink here is Absinthe, so follow the green fairy and opt for the spirit served the authentic French way: accompanied by a fountain that drips cold water onto sugar cubes and into your drink. Once your feet start itching, explore the bar’s hidden Swamp Room or venture next door to sister venue, Gin Palace.

With a mantra like ‘Burgers and Burgundy’, you know you’re going to have a good time at Bar Margaux. This French-inspired underground brasserie feels intimate, classy and totally other-wordly, made for debaucherous nights that look picture-perfect. 

For some late-night Southern charm, Le Bon Ton is a must. The saloon-style barbecue joint has a fair whack of hot and smoky cocktails, with standouts like the BBQ Highball (complete with beef jerky) and the Creole Bloody Mary promising to leave a lasting impression on your mind (and your palate). 

When you’re craving a midnight spaghetti fix, look no further than Arlechin. Created by restaurant royalty, the Grossi family, this subterranean hotspot is hard to find but easy to love. Get cosy under the curved cork ceiling and pick the brains of talented wait staff for unexpected drink recommendations and pairings.

Hidden behind a bookcase in Melbourne’s oldest public house, Loch and Key is a tight-packed bar brimming with booze where the hours melt away.

Regarded in industry circles as a hospo bar for hospo workers, Lily Blacks knows how to nail a good night. Even if you consider yourself a cocktail aficionado, chances are Lily knows better – so let the staff tailor a drink just for you. Ready to chip fresh ice by hand and pimp your drink with homemade ingredients, the team at Lily’s won’t steer you wrong.

From pollies to suits and students, Angel Music Bar pulls an eclectic crowd. The stripped-back decor means you can project your own dream night onto this venue, whether that’s a subdued drink in the front bar, a bop next to the vinyl-spinning DJ, or a full-on boogie in the thumping upstairs bar.

If you haven’t been to Bar Bambi, chances are you’ve spotted its bathrooms in an influencer’s selfie. Swoop in once the door line dies down, order a drink (a glass of bubbles feels right) and soak up live music in these opulent underground surrounds. Not enough venues sling after-hours plates, and it’s something Bar Bambi is on a mission to fix with its late-night menu of meatballs, vodka pasta and Carbonara toasties. 

When it’s getting late and your group is still squabbling over where to go, head to the multi-venue, five-storey Her building. On balmy nights make a beeline for the rooftop. The polished bar boasts sweeping city views and a late-night menu that includes a confit duck jaffle and a raclette cheeseburger. After 1am, head downstairs and file into the always-heaving Music Room, where the walls are lined with vinyl and the taps run with custom cocktails.

Never heard of a boilermaker? Well if you like beer and whisky, you’re in for a treat. Pull up a pew barside or nab a coveted booth and discover what this old-school pairing is all about. The best part? Every boilermaker is served with a moreish snack that deftly compliments your refreshment.

Upscale rooftop bars that offer whisky, Havana cigars and idyllic city views are hard to come by – which explains why Siglo has remained a CBD staple for so long.