Best Cocktail Bars in Essendon

Price

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$$$
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Regions

City CentreInner City EastInner City NorthInner City SouthInner City WestWestern Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Ascot ValeBrunswickCarltonCollingwoodEssendonFitzroy

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

37 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Johnny's Green Room restaurant

1. Johnny's Green Room

4.2

Awesome(97)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Carlton

Booked 1 time today

Johnny's Green Room in Carlton is a cocktail bar that effortlessly captures the essence of Italian summers with its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drink offerings. Perched atop the historic King & Godfree building, it boasts "amazing views" that pair perfectly with the expertly crafted cocktails curated by Melbourne bar maestro Matt Bax. Guests rave about the "chill tunes" and "great vibe," making it a must-visit spot for those seeking the perfect blend of ambiance and flavor. The bar's Italian-accented cocktails, combined with a relaxed yet stylish setting, make Johnny's Green Room a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts in search of authenticity and excellence.

A photo of Rice Queen Oriental Diner and Bar restaurant

2. Rice Queen Oriental Diner and Bar

4.6

Exceptional(174)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Fitzroy

Booked 24 times today

Rice Queen Oriental Diner and Bar in Fitzroy is a vibrant gem for Fusion / Eclectic cuisine, melding dynamic Pan-Asian flavors with a playful and spirited atmosphere. This kitsch diner offers an eclectic mix of dishes that impress every palate. Patrons rave about the "exceptional and delectable" food, with standout dishes like the chef’s tasting menu praised for its variety and value. The service is consistently described as "fantastic and friendly," and the atmosphere is lively, with DJs and a private Karaoke room adding to the fun. Whether it's the tantalizing lychee cocktails or the exquisite kingfish, Rice Queen promises an unforgettable dining experience!

3. Tutti Trattoria

4.3

Awesome(12)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Essendon

We grew up on Nonna’s classic pizzas, freshly made pasta and Italian sweets. Noisy family gatherings, a little indulgence and a lot of fun. And everyone was welcome.Now we extend the invitation to you. Tutti Trattoria is the recreation of these family moments, with a little makeover. Our gorgeous interior brings a taste of Italy to the heart of Essendon. Each of our rooms reflects a unique vibe, from our southern Italian trattoria to our decadent and intimate upstairs restaurant.And the food. We believe good food doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to be made fresh, with quality ingredients, and a little love. Come on in and see what all the fuss is about.

A photo of Maggie's Snack's & liquor restaurant

4. Maggie's Snack's & liquor

4.7

Exceptional(8)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Brunswick

Booked 1 time today

Maggie's Snacks and Liquor is a neighbourhood bar and restaurant helmed by old friends Kaidee Grzankowski, Scott Blomfield and Jessica Spooner. Maggie’s beverage and food offering centres on a seasonal menu, showcasing some of the best kiwi booze and food New Zealand has to offer. Our kitchen will be presenting local, seasonal ingredients in a joyful and unexpected way, with plenty nostalgic kiwi items from Executive Chef Scotty Blomfield's childhood back in Aotearoa. Positioned directly on Melbourne’s iconic Lygon Street, Maggie’s features fully openable windows for gorgeous sunny days, a natural wood fireplace for the colder ones, terrazzo floors and exposed brick walls, touches of Art Deco with Mid-Century modern, a hidden luxurious cocktail parlour and a gorgeous courtyard. Come for the food, stay for the cocktails.

5. Lay Low Bar

4.8

Exceptional(62)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Seddon

We wanted to create that very experience in a neighbourhood setting. Who needs New York when you have Seddon!Enter through the hidden door and ask the team to take you through the menu.Our bespoke cocktails are created with house made and seasonal local produce while our neighbours The Brotherhood Yiros have collaborated to create an exclusive food menu.

A photo of Bird Bang´n Chicken restaurant

6. Bird Bang´n Chicken

4.7

Exceptional(144)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Brunswick

Booked 18 times today

Bird Bang’n Chicken in Brunswick East is a must-visit for Dining Bar enthusiasts seeking a sublime chicken experience paired with a vibrant bar scene. With a reputation for serving some of the best fried chicken in Melbourne, Bird Bang’n Chicken offers “delicious, hot food” that is “super fast and fresh.” The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a casual night out, enhanced by their extensive list of Australian craft beers, wines, and cocktails. Guests rave about the “fantastic service” and the incredible value of their “bottomless wings” and “Feed Me Menu.” Whether you’re a local or visiting, Bird Bang’n Chicken promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

7. Lulu's Social Space

4.8

Exceptional(17)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Ascot Vale

Booked 2 times today

Lulu's Social Space is a delightful haven for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine right in the heart of Ascot Vale. Known for its "delicious tacos" and expertly smoked ribs, this local gem has mastered the art of fresh and tasty share plates that are sure to impress. Diners rave about the "incredible food and service" and the vibrant atmosphere that makes every visit a joyful experience. The cozy courtyard and friendly staff create a welcoming environment that perfectly complements their mouthwatering Tex-Mex offerings. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Lulu's promises a "great place to eat as a family" with its unbeatable blend of quality and authenticity.

8. Danté

4.7

Exceptional(38)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Northcote

Booked 4 times today

Danté in Northcote is a standout destination for those seeking an authentic European dining experience with a modern Greek flair. This exquisite restaurant beautifully marries traditional Hellenic flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Greek heritage. Guests rave about the "amazing modern take on great Greek food," where each dish is "a Greek culinary adventure" crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The elegant setting, adorned with gold, black, and emerald green, complements the vibrant flavors on the plate. Danté's commitment to authenticity and sustainability, alongside its superb service and inviting ambience, makes it a must-visit.

9. Merah

3.9

Excellent(155)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Northcote

Booked 1 time today

In the heart of Northcote, a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic culinary scene, Merah emerges as a captivating destination where the art of Asian cuisine takes center stage. Our name, "Merah," meaning "red" in Malaysian, represents our passion, energy, and the fiery flavors that ignite our culinary creations and delicious cocktails. From our handmade dumplings bursting with flavors to our aromatic curries that transport you to the streets of Thailand or Malaysia, every bite at Merah is a symphony of taste and texture.

10. Jolt's Loft

(0)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Fitzroy

Jolt’s Loft is a private cocktail bar specializing in premium masterclasses and exclusive private events.Our high-energy sessions take guests on an immersive cocktail journey, where they craft their own drinks at a state-of-the-art cocktail station, complete with custom ingredients, unique garnishes, and signature recycled cocktail mists. Led by award-winning hosts, each experience is packed with expert tips, insider tricks, and a selection of hand-picked flavors to elevate every creation.At Jolt’s Loft, it’s more than just mixing drinks—it’s about unlocking the art of cocktail-making in an unforgettable and interactive way.Our masterclasses will run every second Thursday unless you want the space for your own private group then please contact us directly.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

T
Tom
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Delicious 'chef's tasting menu". Varied and beautiful presentation.
More info
Rice Queen Oriental Diner and BarPrice: Expensive• Asian• Fitzroy
•
4.6
P
Paige
Melbourne •1 review
4.0
Dined on Mar 2, 2025
Absolutely love this spot but was disappointed they had no moscato.
More info
Johnny's Green RoomPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carlton
•
4.2
C
Catherine
Melbourne •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 21, 2025
Really enjoyed the banquet menu for $90! Will be back for sure
More info
Maggie's Snack's & liquorPrice: Moderate• Wine Bar• Brunswick
•
4.7
M
Meghan
Melbourne •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on Feb 11, 2025
Our food and the service were amazing! Our only downfalls was the heat and noise level. Very hard to have a conversation as it is quite a loud environment. And the front doors were open leaving us to feel a bit sweaty and uncomfortable while eating hot food! Won’t stop us from coming back though (: highly recommend!
More info
Tutti TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Essendon
•
4.3
A
Annette
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 22, 2024
We ordered a Meze Platter to share its was absolutely delicious especially the home made pita bread.
More info
Lay Low BarPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Seddon
•
4.8

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