Fancy a French 75? A Tom Collins? Or maybe just a great gin and tonic? For a classic or something more signature, these Melbourne gin bars are sure to shake up something special.
Gin, it’s a wonderful thing. It’s the liquor that was once used as a medicine but today is highly praised in some of our favourite cocktails. And whether you’re a beginner to the world of gin or a longstanding lover, thanks to gins recent resurrection, there’s even designated gin bars out there for everyone to enjoy.
Shaken up and paired with some lively theatrics, there’s no better way to enjoy gin than at a famed cocktail bar. So clear your plans and be sure to make your way through our list of the best gin bars in Melbourne of 2024!
Photographed by Daniel Boud. Image via Destination NSW.
Eau De Vie
Gin and jazz go hand in hand with one another. And, thanks to this gin bar in Melbourne, Eau De Vie, your visit will be just as glamorous as what you’d expect it to be. This intimate, dimly lit speakeasy focuses on creating extraordinary cocktails thanks to their exceptional service from all staff. With something for everyone, Eau De Vie even has a designated Whisky Room that houses a large collection of the special spirit – you can even purchase whisky and store it in their Bottle Lockers. Otherwise, for carefully crafted drinks, try out their five-course cocktail degustation experience inside Eau De Vie’s Library.
Photographed by Paul Philipson. Image via Visit Victoria.
The Everleigh
If you’re looking for a gin bar in Fitzroy, chances are you’re looking for The Everleigh. Open seven days a week for walk-ins, over the past 12 years The Everleigh continues to top lists with even worldwide recognition. Think Australian Bartender Cocktail Bar of the Year, Best Victorian Bar of the Year and, they even placed highly in the World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Fusing traditional with modern age, The Everleigh’s menu features the likes of specially curated cocktails that pairs seamlessly with their range of delicious bar snacks. For the gin lovers, we recommend trying the Hocus Pocus or the Cavalier.
Image supplied.
Four Pillars Distillery
Found just over an hour’s drive north-east out of Melbourne’s CBD is a locally produced but internationally renowned distillery – Four Pillars. Here, they make it their mission to celebrate Victoria’s best ingredients from the region. Everything from the water within the copper tanks to the infused botanicals hail from the Yarra Ranges region. For your visit, why not join in on their Distillery Gin Masterclass where you’ll learn about the distillation process, the history of gin and you can even have a go at making cocktails yourself.
Photographed by Ash Edmonds. Image via Unsplash.
Gin Palace
Nestled between one of Melbourne’s many laneways, Gin Palace is an oasis for any gin lover out there. Named after the 19th century term to describe the infamously disreputable drinking houses, Gin Palace is definitely far from that. Since its formal opening in 1997, Gin Palace has been famed for stocking some of the best gin and, using experienced bartenders, turns the liquor into an extravaganza for your tastebuds. Known for their perfectly shaken or stirred martinis, dimly lit interior and friendly staff, after one visit you’ll realise why they’ve made this list as one of the best Melbourne gin bars.
Photographed by Gareth Lewis. Image supplied.
Union Electric Bar
Welcome to the quaintest bar in Melbourne, featuring an even quainter collection of gin that has given them a good spot in our guide to the best gin bars around Melbourne. The bar staff are restless creators and curators, bringing some of the tastiest alcoholic beverages to its visiting tipplers. It’s a craft, really. How about a Little Red that’s made with rhubarb, lemon, egg white, gin and premium lemonade? A must try in 2023!
Image supplied via @bar1806 Instagram.
1806
Stretching out over two floors, 1806 is more than just your standard cocktail bar in Melbourne. We’re talking intricate cocktails, a mouth-watering food menu and, of course, their range of masterclasses – all of which make 1806 one of Melbourne’s best gin bars. Highly reputable in Australia’s cocktail community, stepping into the dim-lit venue guests will find velvet covered furniture and a world where gin is taken seriously. In addition to their meticulous cocktails, be sure to get your hands on the Roasted Jalapeno Corn or the 1806 Cheese Toastie.
If you’re a gin lover, raise your glass to the Top 8 Australian Gin Brands. Shake things up with this list of the Best Tequila Bars in Melbourne. Or sip through these 7 Best Wine Bars around Melbourne.
