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melbourne central pubs

Local Guide to Melbourne Central Pubs

 

Melbournians love going to the pub. Something about having a pint of beer and some very oily food brings comfort to those who visit them. And if you’re looking to relax and grab a drink with some friends there are plenty or pubs and bars near Melbourne Central to choose from. 

Top 5 Must-Visit Pubs in Melbourne Central

 

1. Craft Beer Heaven: The local Taphouse

Specialising in craft beer and delicious food, The Local Taphouse was founded by Steve Jaffares and Guy Greenstone and opened in 2008, this is one of the most iconic spots to grab yourself some award winning craft beer. And the best part is, the beers are rotating! So you can try a new one every time you come back! 

Along with their classic pub food, such as steaks, parmas and burgers, but also changing seasonally depending on what the chef thinks will taste best with their beers on tap. And if you’re looking for a drink on the weekdays, they have happy hour from 4-6PM from Monday to Friday! 

Address: 184 Carlisle St., East St. Kilda

Business hours: 12 PM-1 AM everyday 

Website: thelocal.com.au

Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 37 min by tram

 

2. Historic Charm: The Mitre Tavern

 

The Mitre Tavern is probably the oldest pub in Melbourne. First opened in 1868 and right in the heart of Melbourne CBD, this heritage-listed pub has lived many lives and has gone through several renovations, the Mitre Tavern has still stayed true to it’s origins and kept the interior as close to the original as possible. 

Still the largest beer garden in Melbourne’s CBD, the Mitre Tavern has 47 taps with the finest beers and if you’re hungry, they have the classic bar food, with their famous chicken parma. You can also head upstairs to their steakhouse and make a whole night of it! 

Address: 5 Bank Place, Melbourne 

Business Hours: 

Tavern: 11 AM-12 AM on the weekdays & 12 PM-12 AM on the weekends 

Steakhouse: 12 PM - 3 PM & 6 PM til late on weekdays, 6 PM til late on weekends 

Website: https://www.mitretavern.com.au/

Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 10-min walk 

 

3. Rooftop Revelry Goldilocks Bar

Have you ever heard the story of Goldilocks and the three bears? Where a young girl named Goldilocks ventures into the forest and stumbles into the home of a family of bears? It’s a classic story that inspired not only the name of this next pub but even the location. 

If you want to go to one of the best rooftop pubs in Melbourne, you’ll have to make your way to Denyers Building in Swanston street, pass through a chinese restaurant, pass by another bar and up some stairs to find Goldilocks Bar. 

Along with some adorably themed specialty cocktails, you can also order share plates with asian inspired dishes and of course a wide variety of spirits to choose from. 

Address: Level 5, 264 Swanston St., Melbourne 

Business Hours: 2 PM to late from Monday to Thursday, and 11 AM to late from Friday to Sunday

Website: goldilocksbar.com.au

Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 8-min walk 

 

4. Sports Haven: The Imperial Hotel

If you find yourself looking for the best pub to watch live sports while having a drink, nothing hits the spot quite like the Imperial Hotel. 

Located right across Parliament at the end of Bourke St., and just minutes away from the Princess Theatre is a pub with old, classic exteriors, but a huge amount of energy and life inside. 

With large TVs screens around the pub, playing your favourite sports, and drinks and classic pub food to match, this is definitely a must for sports fans all over Melbourne. 

And if you want some fresh air, you can always step upstairs to their outdoor beer garden that gives you a gorgeous 360-degree view of Melbourne CBD. 

Address: 2-8 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Business Hours:  11 AM -11 PM Mon to Wed, 11 AM - 12 PM Thursday, 11 AM - 2 AM Fri-Sat, 11 AM - 11 PM Sun

Website: https://bourkestreetimperial.com/

Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 8-min walk 

 

Tips for Exploring Melbourne Central Pubs

  • Best times to visit pubs (Happy hours, weekends, quiet weekdays)

    • Make sure to check the social media accounts or websites of any of the pubs you are planning to explore during your stay, and you might find some good deals, happy hours, or specials. 

  • Transport options and safety tips

    • If you’re looking to do a night out, don’t forget that the Melbourne trams are at your service. Most trams are available until 11 PM, but there are night trams as well. You just need to check to make sure which route you’re taking. And of course, if you feel like maybe the tram is not for you, splurge for an Uber! Your safety is definitely the most important thing! 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the drinking age in Melbourne?

Dinking age in Victoria is 18 years old. In many places, there is going to be security outside, so make sure to bring a photo ID to share with them. For those travelling from abroad, a passport or license will be your safest options. 

2. Do I need to book in advance?

If you are a big group (5 or more), we would recommend looking at booking options, as some places can get fully booked, especially on weekends. So, having a booking will be the safest bet. 

3. Where to stay near Melbourne Central?

If you are looking to go on a pub crawl in the Melbourne Central, it might be best to stay somewhere close by. Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central is the right choice with a perfect location, putting you right in the heart of the action.