Best Cafes & Bars in Melbourne | Top Picks

Okay, if you’re on the prowl for the best cafes & bars in Melbourne, you’re in for a bloody good time. This city’s got coffee and nightlife down to an art form—seriously, it’s like they invented the perfect flat white and then decided to throw in killer cocktails for good measure. You’ve got these tucked-away laneway cafes where the baristas are basically coffee wizards, and then there’s rooftop bars where the skyline’s so pretty it’s practically flirting with you. Whether you’re grabbing a quick brew on your way to work or planning a night out that’ll have your mates talking for weeks, Melbourne’s got that effortlessly cool thing going on.

What makes the best cafes & bars in Melbourne so damn special? It’s not just the drinks—though, trust me, that latte or negroni’s gonna be spot-on. It’s the whole experience, you know? Picture yourself curled up in a cozy cafe corner with a coffee so smooth it’s like a hug in a cup, or later, you’re at some vibey bar, music pumping, lights low, and your drink’s got that fancy garnish you’re secretly obsessed with. That’s Melbourne’s magic: coffee culture that’s basically a religion, nightlife that’s always got a pulse, and spots that turn a random Tuesday into a story you’ll be telling forever. We’ve rounded up the places locals can’t stop banging on about and visitors are still posting on Insta months later. So whether you’re after your new favorite coffee haunt or a bar that’ll make your night unforgettable, our guide’s got you sorted.