2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.1
Marquis of Lorne Fitzroy, Victoria Suburban Pub
A beloved Fitzroy classic, the Marquis of Lorne captures everything that makes Melbourne pubs great — three levels of good vibes, great food, cold pints, and rooftop views. This corner pub dates back to the 19th century and has been given new life with a thoughtful renovation that respects its past. With a cozy ground-floor bar, a dining-focused middle level, and a breezy rooftop terrace, the Marquis delivers atmosphere and quality in equal measure.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.2
The Napier Hotel Fitzroy, Victoria
The Napier Hotel in Fitzroy offers an authentic Aussie pub experience bursting with character and charm. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this iconic local haunt serves up an impressive array of craft beers and classic cocktails. With its eclectic décor and welcoming vibe, it's perfect for relaxed gatherings or vibrant evenings out. The venue also boasts a cozy beer garden, live music nights, and delicious pub fare, making it a go-to spot for socialising and entertainment in Melbourne's dynamic cultural scene.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.3
Builders Arms Hotel Fitzroy, Victoria Suburban Pub
The Builders Arms Hotel is a cornerstone of Fitzroy’s hospitality scene, effortlessly blending pub heritage with modern sophistication. Located on vibrant Gertrude Street, this beautifully restored venue channels Melbourne’s love of fine dining, good drinks, and community charm. Whether you're stopping by for a pint in the front bar, a wine in the courtyard, or dinner at the acclaimed dining room, the Builders is a local classic with citywide appeal.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.4
Terminus Hotel Abbotsford, Victoria Suburban Pub
Perched in the vibrant heart of Abbotsford, the Terminus Hotel is your go-to destination for a stellar night out. Featuring a wide selection of craft beers and signature cocktails, this lively venue is perfect for any occasion. With its dynamic blend of live music, thematic entertainment, and social events, the Terminus Hotel promises an exciting atmosphere. Whether you're catching up with friends or soaking in the buzz of the crowd, this hotspot elevates every social gathering.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.5
Albert Park Hotel Albert Park, Victoria Suburban Pub
Established in 1883, The Albert Park Hotel is a cherished locals' pub known for its convivial drinking and social atmosphere. Patrons gather to enjoy a wide range of libations, including craft beers and classic cocktails. The pub's rich history and warm ambiance make it a go-to destination for socializing, whether it's for a casual chat at the bar or a lively evening with friends
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.6
Spread Eagle Hotel Richmond, Victoria
The Spread Eagle Hotel in Richmond, Victoria, is a vibrant hub for socializing and entertainment. Known for its wide array of craft beers and expertly mixed cocktails, this lively venue promises a delightful drinking experience. With live music performances and big-screen sports broadcasts, there’s always excitement in the air. The Spread Eagle Hotel offers a welcoming ambiance with cozy lounges for private gatherings or bustling spaces for social butterflies. It's the perfect place for both relaxation and revelry.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.7
Town Hall Hotel North Melbourne, Victoria
The Town Hall Hotel, North Melbourne, is a traditional community orientated local pub that provides all the essentials. The pub has regular live entertainment between Thursday & Sunday & has a public bar packed with musical memorabilia.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.8
The Lincoln Hotel Carlton, Victoria Suburban Pub
A Melbourne institution that blends heritage charm with gastropub excellence, The Lincoln in Carlton is the kind of pub you never want to leave. With its art deco touches, polished brass bar, and seriously sharp food and wine offering, it captures everything great about modern Australian hospitality. Whether you're in for a relaxed pint, a decadent multi-course dinner, or a Sunday roast, The Lincoln delivers comfort and class just steps from the city.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.9
Rainbow Hotel Fitzroy, Victoria Pub, Live Music Venue
The Rainbow Hotel is located just off of Melbourne’s renowned Brunswick Street and has a rich 140 plus year’s tradition of serving the community. It includes a great food, a large beer garden, over 100 bottled beers and a vibrant nightlife.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.10
Hotel Esplanade St Kilda, Victoria Live Music Venue
Step into Melbourne history at Hotel Esplanade, the iconic seaside pub affectionately known as The Espy. Overlooking St Kilda Beach, this grand Victorian hotel has been lovingly restored into a sprawling venue with three levels, twelve bars, multiple dining areas, and legendary live music spaces. It’s a vibrant mash-up of heritage architecture, modern hospitality, and bohemian soul — from cocktails on the terrace to basement gigs or a fine-dining experience with bay views.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.11
Standard Hotel Fitzroy, Victoria Suburban Pub
A true neighbourhood gem tucked into Fitzroy’s backstreets, The Standard Hotel is an old-school Melbourne pub with a soul. Loved for its legendary beer garden, warm front bar, and no-fuss hospitality, it’s where locals go for cold beers, comfort food, and the laid-back atmosphere that defines Fitzroy. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon session or a winter pint by the fireplace, The Standard delivers the kind of authenticity you can’t manufacture — it’s the pub you wish was on your street.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.12
Great Northern Hotel North Carlton, Victoria Suburban Pub
The Great Northern Hotel on Rathdowne Street in North Carlton is a true Melbourne pub classic, blending a laid-back neighbourhood feel with one of the city’s best beer gardens. With an outstanding tap list of craft and local brews, hearty pub fare, and a dog-friendly policy, it’s a welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're watching the footy, catching up with mates, or enjoying a sunny afternoon session, the Great Northern delivers a timeless pub experience.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.13
The Local Taphouse St Kilda East, Victoria Bar
The Local Taphouse in St Kilda East is a multi-level beer haven dedicated to showcasing Australia’s best craft brews in a warm, Euro-inspired setting. With over 20 rotating taps, a rooftop terrace, hearty pub fare, and a relaxed, friendly vibe, it's a go-to for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Whether you're sampling a seasonal sour or attending one of their legendary Ale Stars nights, this venue is all about celebrating the culture of good beer.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.14
Half Moon Brighton, Victoria Suburban Pub
The Half Moon pub is located in the heart of Melbourne’s beach side suburb of Brighton. The refurbished hotel boasts numerous drinking areas over 2 levels including great outdoor areas & can cater for a range of social events or functions.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.15
Railway Club Hotel Port Melbourne, Victoria Suburban Pub
An institution in Port Melbourne, the Railway Club Hotel blends old-school pub charm with steakhouse sophistication. Housed in a classic Victorian building just off Bay Street, this long-standing local favourite is renowned for its premium steaks, friendly service, and welcoming bar atmosphere. Whether you're settling in for a perfectly cooked porterhouse or just popping by for a drink, the Railway Club Hotel offers an inviting and authentic Melbourne pub experience with a touch of old-world class.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.16
Station Hotel Footscray, Victoria Suburban Pub, Gastropub
The Station Hotel is a quality gastropub located in the heart of Melbourne’s western suburbs in Footscray. The pub is highly regarded for its steaks so it is not surprising there is a quality selection of red wines as well as a range of craft beers on ta
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.17
Corner Hotel Richmond, Victoria Pub, Live Music Venue
The Corner Hotel in Richmond is a Melbourne live music institution and one of the city’s most beloved pubs. Just across the road from Richmond Station, this Swan Street classic is where cold beers, pub meals, and world-class gigs come together under one roof. With a legendary rooftop beer garden, a sprawling band room that’s hosted countless local and international acts, and a buzzing bar scene, the Corner remains a cornerstone of Melbourne’s music and nightlife culture.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.18
Edinburgh Castle Hotel Brunswick, Victoria Suburban Pub
The Edinburgh Castle Hotel is Brunswick’s longest standing pub & has been set up as a true community pub. That means there is something here for everyone. There is a vast range of weekly entertainment with trivia, DJ’s & live music.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.19
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.21
Orrong Hotel Armadale , Victoria
A true stalwart of Melbourne’s inner south, the Orrong Hotel in Armadale is a beautifully restored Art Deco pub with serious community spirit. It combines traditional pub warmth with elevated modern hospitality across a spacious public bar, refined dining room, and leafy beer garden. Whether you’re sipping craft brews with mates, enjoying a long Sunday lunch, or catching live sport, the Orrong is a polished yet relaxed local favourite that delivers on every level.
2024 Concrete Playground - The 22 Best Pubs in Melbourne - No.22
The Drunken Poet West Melbourne, Victoria Live Music Venue
A small bar located adjacent to the Queen Victoria Markets, The Drunken Poet is a music venue where variety is its forte with regular open mic nights, poetry readings, traditional Irish sessions, women songwriters showcase and much more.