Top Bars Melbourne CBD for Hire

Top Bars Melbourne CBD for Hire

The Melbourne central business district is hands down one of the best places in Victoria, Australia to live and work. There are plenty of opportunities for employment, a variety of eating options and great shops. To top it all off, the city is teeming with culture. And if you're looking for a place to unwind after work or to host an important event, there are many top bars Melbourne CBD has to offer.

What types of events can I hold at a Melbourne CBD bar for hire?

Your choice of venue will depend on the kind of event you're arranging. Fortunately, most bars are flexible enough to accommodate different types of events from corporate functions to birthday parties. Here are some of the events you can hold at a bar in Melbourne CBD

Engagement parties

Many couples want to celebrate their engagement by hosting a get-together with their families and closest friends. And what better place to do that than at a bar? There are many private bars in Melbourne CBD where you can have a fine dining experience followed by cocktails and dancing.

Milestone birthdays

Whether you're turning 18 or 80, a milestone birthday is always a cause for celebration. Since parties are more fun when alcohol is involved, it's a good idea to book a bar for your celebration.

Wedding receptions

Many Melbourne bars have the space, look and feel to make the perfect wedding reception venue. So if you're thinking of breaking with tradition and having your reception at a bar instead of a hotel, there are plenty of options available to you.

Christmas parties 

Bars are also a popular choice for Christmas parties. And since many bars have function rooms, you can hold your entire party at one venue.

End-of-year celebrations

Melbourne's CBD is quite a busy place during the Christmas season. So if you're looking for a place to hold your end-of-year celebration, a bar is a great option. End-of-year celebrations are a great way to let your hair down and celebrate the achievements of your team. Having it in a bar will make it even more enjoyable.

Hens nights/Bucks nights

A bar is the perfect place to hold a hen's night or buck's night. You can have a few drinks, some nibbles and plenty of fun.

Bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs

There are plenty of bars in Melbourne CBD that can accommodate large groups. If you're looking for a place to celebrate your child's coming of age, a bar is a great option. Many bars offer private dining areas and function rooms that can be hired for the occasion.

Farewell drinks

Are you leaving your job or moving interstate? Or do you have a co-worker or friend moving somewhere else and you want to celebrate with them one last time? Bid them adieu by celebrating with a few drinks at a bar. Book a bar in Melbourne CBD so you can say your goodbyes the right way: with bottles of craft beer or a few glasses of champagne in hand.

Product launches

Any kind of corporate event that's geared towards networking can be held at a bar. If you're launching a new product, for example, you can hold a press conference at the bar followed by drinks and canapes.

Client entertainment programs

Impress clients by inviting them out for drinks at a Melbourne CBD bar. If you're celebrating a successful project or sealing a business deal, a bar is the perfect place to do it.

Team-building activities

You can also use the space to host corporate events such as team-building exercises or end-of-year parties.

Common types of bars in Melbourne CBD

There are many different types of bars in Melbourne CBD, from dive bars to rooftop bars. Here's a quick guide to some of the most popular types of bars in the city centre:

Dive bar

A dive bar is usually a small bar that's tucked away in a side street. These bars are usually quite relaxed, have a casual atmosphere and are unpretentious.

Rooftop bar

A rooftop bar is exactly what it sounds like – a bar that's located on the roof of a building. These bars offer great views of the city skyline and are perfect for unwinding after work with a drink

Cocktail bar

A cocktail bar is a bar that specialises in making innovative and creative cocktails. These bars usually have a more sophisticated atmosphere and are perfect for a night out with friends or a date night.

Cocktail lounge

A cocktail lounge is similar to a cocktail bar but usually has a more sophisticated atmosphere. Compared to cocktail bars, this type of bar plays softer music and has a more relaxed vibe.

Champagne bar

Champagne bars have a good selection of champagnes and sparkling wines, as well as a menu of light food items. These bars usually have a sophisticated atmosphere and are perfect for celebrations or special occasions

Wine bar

Wine bars have a more comprehensive wine list than other kinds of bars. These bars usually have a large selection of wines available by the glass or bottle. They also often serve food, making them perfect for a casual dinner or lunch 

Whisky bar

A whisky bar is a great place to enjoy a dram or two of your favourite whisky. These bars usually have a wide selection of whiskies from all over the world, as well as knowledgeable staff who can help

Sports bar

A sports bar is a bar that's dedicated to showing live sports on TV. These bars are usually quite noisy and have a casual atmosphere. They're perfect for catching up with mates to watch the game.

Pub

A classic pub is more serious about the food it serves than a typical bar. These bars usually have a kitchen and serve traditional pub meals such as steak and chips, burgers and wings.

Brewery

A brewery is a bar that brews its own beer on-site. These bars usually have a large selection of craft beers available, as well as some food options.

Beer hall

A beer hall is a large bar that has a casual atmosphere and serves local and imported beers. These bars are usually quite noisy and are perfect for catching up with mates over a few drinks.

Beer garden

A beer garden is an outdoor area where you can drink and socialise. These areas are usually found at the rear of a pub or bar.

Benefits of holding your event in a bar

With plenty of event spaces like restaurants, function halls, and hotels available, you might be wondering why you should bother with bars. Here are some reasons why:

Bars are intimate spaces

Bars have a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere than other types of event venues. This makes them ideal for parties or events where you want your guests to mingle and get to know each other better.

Flexible spaces

Most bars have flexible spaces that can be used for a variety of events. Whether you're looking for a private room for a sit-down dinner or a large space for a cocktail party, you'll be able to find it at a bar.

Bars are great for networking

If you're holding a corporate event, a bar is a great place to network. You can mix and mingle with clients or co-workers in a relaxed setting, which makes it easier to build relationships.

Bars are fun!

At the end of the day, bars are just plain fun. They're a great place to let loose, have a few drinks, and enjoy yourself. If you're looking for a venue that will make your event more enjoyable for everyone, a bar is a great option.

Food and drinks are readily available

Aside from restaurants and cafes, many event spaces don't have food and drinks included in the package. This means you'll have to organise and pay for catering separately. But with a bar, you can just keep an open tab and order drinks and food from the menu. This is especially convenient if you're expecting last-minute guests.

Lots of entertaining activities

Bars usually have a range of activities to keep guests entertained. A live music venue features live acts and it'd be quite an experience if you catch someone famous. A sports bar usually has large TVs broadcasting the latest games. And if you want something more low-key, some bars have a pool table or dart boards.

How do I go about finding and booking the perfect bar for my event in Melbourne CBD? 

Whilst there are many decisions to be made when organizing an event, choosing the best location will have the most impact on how successful it is. Take into account the following elements to assist in focusing your search:

Accessibility

Your guests should be able to get to the venue easily, whether they're coming by public transport, car, or on foot. The last thing you want is for people to miss your event because they couldn't find the venue.

Budget

Before you begin your search, make sure to determine a budget for the venue. Melbourne CBD has a variety of venues for every price range.

Capacity

Think about how many people you're inviting and make sure the bar can accommodate them comfortably. You don't want your guests to be crammed into a small space or spread out too much in a large one.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere of the venue will set the tone for your event, so it's important to choose one that's in line with the mood you're going for. A relaxed bar is great for after-work drinks, but it might not be the best choice for a formal corporate event.

Menu

If you're planning on providing food at your event, make sure the bar has a good selection of dishes to choose from. You should also consider whether you want to order from the menu or have a set menu for your guests.

Amenities

Finally, check to see what amenities the venue has to offer. Does it have a private room? A stage? A dance floor? Make sure the bar has everything you need to make your event a success.

The best bars in Melbourne CBD

Knowing some tips on how to look for a bar is just the first step. You'll need to list down all the bars that meet your needs and narrow it down to the best ones. Here are our top picks for bars in Melbourne CBD:

The Champagne Lounge at La Di Da

577 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

La Di Da Melbourne is a hidden gem of a bar located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD. It has plenty of areas where guests can mingle and socialise, including a restaurant, stage, courtyard, dance floors, and four private function rooms. The Champagne Lounge is a versatile function space that's ideal for birthday celebrations, hens night, corporate events and other functions. It comes with disco balls, comfortable benches and loud wall decorations to give any party a fun and festive atmosphere.

The Basement Lounge at La Di Da

577 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

The Basement Lounge is a dimly lit function space in La Di Da that's a great place to hold private parties like birthdays and get-togethers. It's also perfect for award nights and other casual business-related functions. The lounge has its own bar, DJ booth and dance floor, making it a great place to let loose and have a good time.

MP Dining Room at Melbourne Public

11 Dukes Walk, South Wharf VIC 3006

Melbourne Public, or MP to its regulars, is arguably one of the best bars in the city. Situated in South Wharf, MP has a front-seat view of the Yarra River that helps give the place a relaxed and friendly vibe. It's not only ideal for unwinding after work or on the weekends, but the popular bar is also perfect for various private and corporate events. The MP Dining Room is one of its many impressive function spaces. It sits on an elevated portion behind the main bar keeping your event exclusive to you and your guests.

MP Terrace & Bar at Melbourne Public

11 Dukes Walk, South Wharf VIC 3006

Another popular function space in Melbourne Public, the MP Terrace & Bar is an indoor and outdoor space on the ground floor with a retractable roof. The private bar features an impressive drinks list and an extensive food menu that you and your guests can enjoy during your event. It can accommodate up to 150 guests so it's just right for an intimate cocktail-style private party or business gathering.

Slate Restaurant Bar

9 Goldsbrough Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

One of Melbourne's best bars, Slate Restaurant Bar has made a name for itself as the go-to place for those who want to escape the craziness of city life for a while. Located in the heart of the CBD, Slate has a sleek and modern interior with an impressive drinks list to match. The inner-city bar also serves European and Asian cuisine prepared by Executive Chef David MacLean, who learned a thing or two from celebrity chef Marco Pierre White.

The two-level upscale bar has multiple function spaces, including the cozy space at the back of the ground level, which are perfect for all types of events, from corporate functions and product launches to engagement parties and birthday celebrations. The stylish function space has a seating capacity of 120 though it can welcome up to 200 guests for a cocktail party.

The Queensberry Hotel

593 Swanston Street, Carlton VIC 3053

The Queensbury Hotel has been around since 1854 making it one of the oldest bars in Melbourne. The self-described "country pub in the city," is steeped in history and it's the perfect venue for your next event if you want to give your guests a taste of Melbourne's rich culture and heritage. The Queensbury Hotel has multiple function spaces, including the Swanston Bar & Terrace, which is ideal for intimate get-togethers. The lounge area, featuring amazing art deco details, can accommodate up to 100 guests.

Ludlow Bar & Dining Room

6 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

Ludlow Bar & Dining Room is a sophisticated bar and restaurant that sits on the banks of the Yarra River. The rustic yet sophisticated bar boasts multiple function spaces that are perfect for all types of events. The Lounge Bar, for one, is ideal for a gathering of up to 65 people for an intimate affair. The lounge comes with a private bar, fireplace and large high-top tables. Ludlow specialises in European-style food and has a wide range of drinks whilst a DJ keeps the party going on weekends.

Murmur Piano Bar

17 Warburton Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

Murmur Piano Bar is another hidden gem that also happens to be Melbourne's original laneway cocktail bar. The live music venue's piano is open to anyone who knows how to play though the bar has its own talented pianist you can listen to. The piano bar with the iconic red door is the ideal place to host an event for 15 to 80 guests with its warm ambience and amazing Spanish food.

The Emerald Peacock

233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Situated on Lonsdale Street inside Melbourne's CBD, the Emerald Peacock is quite popular with the after-work crowd. The rooftop bar has a capacity of 250 guests for a cocktail function though portions can be sectioned-off areas for smaller events. The entire venue, including the first level, can welcome up to 450 people. The Emerald Peacock has an extensive list of beers and wine along with an impressive food menu.

Hightail Bar

Collins Square, Collins Street, Docklands VIC 3008

If you want to hold an event in a casual setting, the Hightail Bar on Collins street is a good choice. The venue for hire is near Southern Cross Station so it's easily accessible for your guests. The entire venue can host up to 950 guests so it's a great choice for wedding receptions, milestone celebrations or corporate events like product launches and EOFY parties.

Ms Collins

425 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

One of the best bars in Melbourne CBD, Ms Collins is also the hippest. The French socialite-inspired bar venue boasts an eclectic food menu, which includes Asian and Australian cuisine with some stylised street grub mixed in. The drinks menu, meanwhile, is as extensive and impressive as they come. The bar serves unique and classic cocktails prepared by award-winning bartenders. Ms Collins comes with 12 function rooms, each with a different capacity and vibe. Perhaps the most sophisticated is the LMC rooftop bar. The bar on the third level gives guests an amazing view of the venue as well as the street down below.

Ballers Clubhouse

2 Coverlid Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000

Looking for a new and unique experience for your next event? Ballers Clubhouse has got you covered. The fun and stylish venue is perfect for a range of events from team-building events to birthday parties. It has everything from mouthwatering food to an impressive drinks menu and a range of fun games to keep your guests entertained. The best part? You can even hire a private function space like the Miami-inspired Poolhouse, which comes with its own private bar, ping pong tables, shuffle courts, cabanas, bathroom and a dedicated sound system.

Angel Music Bar

12 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Angel Music Bar is all about playing the right kind of music at the right time. The Bourke Street bar makes sure you enjoy your stay by playing a diverse set of music. And if you're up for some dancing, head on up to the second level where the dance floor is usually filled with spirited guests. Angel Music Bar is the brainchild of the same guy who brought us City Wine Shop and Kirk's Wine Bar.

Vamos Melbourne

1st Floor, 37 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

366 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

Vamos Melbourne is a Latin American-themed bar serving patrons dishes, drinks and music from the said continent. It's perfect for those who want to experience a little bit of everything that Latin America has to offer. The menu features small plates perfect for sharing, as well as bigger main dishes if you're looking for something heartier. And of course, they have an extensive drinks menu with all your favourite Latin American spirits. The sustainable cocktail bar comes with a function space that's good for up to 150 people. 

Riverland Bar

Princes Bridge, Melbourne VIC 3000

Just outside the CBD and on the other side of Princes Bridge is one of Melbourne's iconic waterfront bars. The Riverland Bar is an urban beer garden hideaway that deserves a spot on your list of bars for your event. The waterfront venue has an amazing view of the Yarra River and the bridge.

Golden Monkey

389 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

If you're looking for a late-night bar to fully enjoy your get-together or party, head over to Lonsdale Street and book a space in Golden Monkey. Reminiscent of Shangai nightspots in the 1920s, Golden Monkey is all about fabulous cocktails and good times. The entire venue, with a capacity of up to 200 people, can be booked for exclusive hire. There are also smaller function spaces available like the Red Cranes, Emperor's Pavilion and Opium Den.

Spice Market

Beaney Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

The grandiose Spice Market is inspired by the Spice Route of the olden days. It's the perfect bar if you want a rather unique and exotic vibe for your event. Spice Market has more than 20 function spaces, one of which is Cleo's Cocktail Lounge. The nightclub, with a capacity of 64 to 100 guests, is adorned by a magnificently patterned carpet and hanging lights that shout sexy. Cleo's is perfect for a girl's night out or a hen's night.

Book the best Melbourne CBD bars with VenueNow!

Planning and staging an event can be exhausting and VenueNow knows you could use some help. We will take some of the pressure off you by guiding you through your search for the perfect venue for your event. Visit VenueNow today to see all the amazing Melbourne CBD bars for your next event!